Things To Do
in Longford
Longford is a county town in the heart of Ireland, known for its rich history and charming countryside. It is a peaceful and welcoming community with a strong sense of local pride. The town features a mix of traditional Irish architecture and modern amenities, creating a unique blend of old and new.
Visitors to Longford can enjoy exploring historic sites, beautiful natural landscapes, and friendly local shops and restaurants.
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "Slán" - Goodbye
- "Le do thoil" - Please
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Longford Cathedral for its stunning architecture. Take a leisurely stroll around the nearby gardens to enjoy the fresh air.
Head to the Longford Town Park for a picnic with local delicacies. Enjoy some recreational activities like cycling or walking along the scenic paths.
Dine at a local restaurant and savor traditional Irish dishes. Conclude the evening with a relaxing drink at a nearby pub.
Visit the picturesque Lough Ree for some early morning tranquility and bird watching. A walk along the lakeshore is perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Explore the surrounding woodlands with marked trails ideal for hiking. Enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature.
Return to Longford and enjoy a cozy dinner while sharing stories of your adventures. Consider visiting a local café for dessert.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful rural landscapes and scenic views.
- Rich cultural heritage with historical sites and local traditions.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Ireland.
- Friendly and welcoming community atmosphere.
- Good access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and cycling.
- Limited job opportunities and economic development.
- Less access to amenities and services compared to bigger cities.
- Public transport options can be scarce and less reliable.
- Potentially harsh weather conditions, especially in winter.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options for younger residents.
Best Activities in Longford
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Longford is home to various lakes and rivers, offering excellent fishing opportunities for trout and pike, making it ideal for both novice and experienced anglers.
Explore the scenic landscapes of Longford through its numerous hiking trails, including those in the picturesque Lough Ree area.
Enjoy cycling along the scenic routes, particularly the Royal Canal Greenway, which offers a peaceful ride with beautiful views.
Experience the countryside on horseback with several riding schools available, offering trails through lush landscapes.
Engage in water sports activities like kayaking and paddleboarding on Lough Ree, where you can enjoy the tranquility of the water.
Experience the great outdoors by camping at one of the many campsites around Longford, perfect for a family getaway or a group adventure.
Visit the various lakes and wetlands in the area, which are great spots for birdwatching, attracting a diverse range of species.
Pack a picnic and enjoy it in one of Longford's beautiful parks or along the banks of the river for a relaxing day out.
Places to Visit in Longford
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful lake offering stunning views and opportunities for photography, particularly at sunset and sunrise. The surrounding landscapes and reflections on the water are perfect for capturing nature's beauty.
This park features lovely pathways, gardens, and a picturesque lake. It’s a great spot for leisurely walks and capturing vibrant flowers or serene moments by the water.
Though just outside Longford, this historic site offers breathtaking views of the River Shannon and ancient ruins, making it a perfect backdrop for photography.
The scenic routes along the Royal Canal provide excellent opportunities for capturing the tranquility of the waterway, wildlife, and charming canal-side scenery.
Climbing to the top of the motte gives you panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, making it an ideal spot for landscape photography.
Situated near the border with Cavan, Lough Gowna is known for its scenic beauty and is great for both sunrise and sunset photography.
Offers a unique perspective of the countryside and the chance to capture aerial views during events or by taking a hot air balloon ride.
Food in Longford
Longford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Irish potato pancake, often served with savory fillings such as bacon and cheese. Must-try at O'Hehirs Bakery & Cafe.
Must-Try!
A Dublin-originated dish with sausages, bacon, and potatoes. Available at The Rustic Inn.
A creamy and rich soup featuring locally sourced seafood. Best enjoyed at The Village House in Longford town.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering fresh local produce, artisan foods, and homemade treats. Open on Fridays in Longford town center.
An annual event celebrating local cuisine with a variety of street food stalls offering everything from gourmet burgers to international flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Longford, a friendly handshake is a common form of greeting. It’s polite to make direct eye contact and smile when greeting someone. Using a person's name is also appreciated.
Being on time is considered respectful in Longford. If you are invited to an event, arriving a few minutes early is a good practice, as it shows respect for the host’s time.
Irish people value politeness and good manners. Using 'please' and 'thank you' often is important. It's also respectful to engage in small talk before jumping into business discussions.
Safety
Tipping in Longford
Ensure a smooth experience
In Longford, Ireland, tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory. It is common to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is good. In pubs, patrons might round up their bill or leave small change. Tipping taxi drivers is also customary, usually rounding up to the nearest euro.
Payment methods in Longford include cash, credit, and debit cards. Most establishments accept card payments, and contactless payment methods are widely used. ATMs are available for cash withdrawals. It's customary to ask for the bill at restaurants, and splitting the bill is common among friends.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) in Longford is a delightful time to visit, with blooming flowers and milder temperatures. You can expect lush greenery, pleasant weather, and fewer tourists, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.
Summer (June to August) is the warmest time in Longford, with temperatures averaging between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). Expect longer days filled with sunshine, making it ideal for festivals, walking, and boating on the River Shannon. It is also the peak tourist season, so popular attractions may be busier.
Autumn (September to November) is characterized by cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage. It's a great time to enjoy the rich colors of the landscape and participate in harvest festivals. Expect mild weather, but it's wise to dress in layers as temperatures can vary.
Winter (December to February) in Longford can be cold, with occasional frost and snowfall. The temperatures average between 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F). While it may not be ideal for outdoor activities, you can experience the cozy atmosphere of Irish pubs and winter festivals. Expect fewer crowds and a more tranquil experience.
Longford at Night
Hiking in Longford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park featuring woodlands, walking trails, and stunning views of Lough Key.
A scenic walking trail offering beautiful views over the surrounding countryside.
A hill with marked trails that provide panoramic views of the River Shannon and surrounding areas.
A flat, trail runs along the River Shannon, perfect for hiking and cycling.
A long-distance trail that follows the Royal Canal, suitable for both hiking and cycling.
A park with walking paths, ideal for a leisurely walk amidst nature.
Aiports
How to reach Longford by plane.
Shannon Airport is located approximately 20 miles southwest of Longford and serves as a major international gateway to the west of Ireland.
Ireland West Airport is around 45 miles northwest of Longford and serves both domestic and international flights.
Cork Airport is located about 120 miles south of Longford and is one of the major international airports in Ireland.
Dublin Airport is approximately 90 miles east of Longford and is the busiest airport in Ireland, offering extensive international connections.
Located around 110 miles north of Longford, Belfast International Airport serves numerous international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Longford, representing the majority of the population.
Includes individuals from various European countries and backgrounds not classified as White Irish.
Represents individuals of Asian descent, including Chinese, Indian, and Pakistani communities.
Includes individuals of Black or African descent, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Longford.
Comprises individuals from mixed ethnic backgrounds, reflecting a diverse cultural heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport that includes Gaelic football and hurling, with a strong community following.
Widely played at various levels, with local clubs participating in regional leagues.
A growing sport in Longford, with several clubs and increasing participation among youth.
Longford has a vibrant athletics community, promoting running, jumping, and throwing events.
Popular among both competitive swimmers and recreational participants, with local clubs and facilities.
Both recreational and competitive cycling events take place, supported by various cycling clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Longford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Longford feature creative vegetarian dishes, such as roasted vegetable tarts and lentil stew.
An increasing number of establishments in Longford offer vegan-friendly menus, including plant-based burgers, salads, and dairy-free desserts.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a wide selection of gluten-free dishes and baked goods at accommodating eateries across the region.