Things To Do
in Longford
Longford is a rural county in the Irish midlands, known for its scenic lakes, rolling farmland, and welcoming communities. The county town, Longford, sits on the River Shannon and serves as a gateway to nearby Lough Ree and historic sites. Visitors enjoy a mix of ancient ruins, traditional pubs, and countryside charm across town and rural pockets.
With convenient road links to Dublin and the west, Longford makes a relaxed base for discovering midland Ireland.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a charming café in Longford town, savoring traditional Irish fare. After breakfast, take a stroll around the historic center, visiting the beautiful St. Mel's Cathedral, an architectural gem with stunning stained glass windows. As the morning unfolds, explore the nearby Longford Library, which offers a glimpse into the town's rich literary heritage.
Enjoy lunch at a local bistro, where you can taste seasonal dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Afterward, take a guided tour of the Longford County Museum to learn about the area's history and cultural significance, including its connection to the Irish famine. Wrap up your afternoon with a leisurely walk along the River Camlin, taking in the scenic views and tranquility.
For dinner, visit a traditional Irish pub that features live music, immersing yourself in the local culture. After your meal, enjoy a pint of Guinness while mingling with friendly locals and sharing stories. As the night progresses, consider taking in a local theater performance or simply enjoying a peaceful evening stroll through the town.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to the scenic Lough Ree, one of Ireland's largest lakes. Spend the morning walking along its shores, where you can spot a variety of bird species and enjoy the serene landscape. Don’t forget to capture photographs of the stunning views and perhaps even try your hand at fishing.
After a picnic lunch by the lake, hop on a boat tour to explore the hidden islands of Lough Ree, where you can learn about the unique flora and fauna. The afternoon can be dedicated to visiting the ancient ruins on the islands, including the historic monastery of Inis Clare. Engage with the tour guide to discover the rich stories behind these ancient sites.
Upon returning to Longford, treat yourself to dinner at a lakeside restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood. Relish the flavors as you watch the sunset over the water, painting the sky in beautiful colors. After dinner, unwind with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-16 |
| ☕Café coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $40-60 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $6-9 |
| 🚆One-way local transit | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and warm hospitality
- Beautiful lakes and countryside with easy day trips
- Smaller nightlife scene and fewer big-city amenities
- Public transport can be less frequent outside town centers
- "Dia dhuit" - Hello
- "Sláinte" - Cheers
- "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
- "An bhfuil Gaeilge agat?" - Do you speak Irish?
- "Cén chaoi a bhfuil tú?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Longford
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking 19th-century cathedral with Gothic-inspired architecture; sunrise and golden-hour light illuminate its façade and interior details.
Wide lake vistas and silhouettes of boats at sunset offer expansive water views and reflective skies.
Calm riverside paths with rural backdrops, ideal for moody river photography and birdlife.
Food in Longford
Longford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting, slow-cooked stew featuring lamb or mutton with root vegetables, commonly available in pubs and family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
Creamy mashed potatoes folded with kale or cabbage and crisp bacon, a staple on Irish menus and easy to find in many eateries.
Traditional Irish potato pancake served fried or as part of a main dish, often found in pubs and Irish cafes.
A hearty chowder using locally caught fish and shellfish, popular near lake/riverfront spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in Market Square offering fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts from local vendors.
Occasional street-food stalls and farmers’ market days showcasing regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly greetings are common; small talk is appreciated. A handshake is typical in formal settings, while locals may greet with a warm nod or wave in casual encounters.
People in rural Ireland value a relaxed pace; plan for prompt arrivals in business settings but be flexible in social contexts.
When visiting churches or cemeteries, speak softly and dress modestly; photography restrictions may apply in places of worship.
Safety
Tipping in Longford
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary for good service but not obligatory; 5-10% in casual settings and 10-15% in sit-down restaurants is typical if service is not included.
Cash and cards (credit/debit, contactless) are widely accepted; ATMs are common in town centers. Always have some cash for small vendors or markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with budding greenery; showers are common, so pack a light rain jacket and enjoy countryside walks and early blooms.
Typically pleasant and breathable weather with longer daylight hours; great for lakeside activities and outdoor dining; occasional rain showers can occur.
Golden foliage and comfortable temps; harvest events and outdoor walks along lakes and hills are popular; cooler evenings require a light layer.
Cool and damp with shorter days; indoor attractions, pubs with fires, and cultural venues are good options; frost or rare snowfall can occur.
Longford at Night
Hiking in Longford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling hills with scenic views and nearby historic sites; suitable for day hikes and nature photography.
Flat, easy coastal paths around the lake offering water views and wildlife watching.
Accessible riverine walks and gentle cycling routes along Ireland's historic canal system.
Airports
How to reach Longford by plane.
Major international hub offering extensive connections; about a couple of hours' drive from Longford depending on route and traffic.
Regional airport with domestic and limited international flights; a practical alternative for some destinations.
International gateway in County Clare; accessible by road and offers broader European connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically farming and small-town families; a mix of generations living in towns and villages.
Small but growing presence of EU nationals and others adding cultural diversity and labor to local businesses.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A major sport across the region with local clubs and community leagues; part of the GAA tradition.
Traditional Irish sport with local participation and community events.
Active local clubs and matchdays; a common recreational option in towns and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Longford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian-friendly options are common in pubs and cafes; look for vegetarian mains, hearty salads, and sides such as potatoes, greens, and regional breads. When in doubt, ask for plant-based alternatives or adaptions to classic dishes.