Since ancient days, the River Shannon has cut through the landscape and history of County Longford. The Celtic tribes fought over the river fords and later Viking warriors sailed the fast flowing waters to conquer inland settlements. For centuries, monastic communities found refuge on secluded river islands.
Today the river is a peaceful setting for angling, boating and walking. Close to the river are the remains of an Iron Age bog road. In 148BC, wooden planks were laid across the bog in order to aid the transport of people and animals. The Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre has been built to explain the history of the road and of the people who built it.
Self-catering cottages in Ireland for fishing holidays
The River Shannon and the Royal Canal converge at Clondra. Many 18th century buildings are preserved around the stone harbour including a mill complete with a mill pond. Clondra churchyard contains 5th century gravestones. Nearby there is a 12th century abbey.
The pubs in Clondra have a traditional Irish flavour and live music is often played in the local drinking establishments. In the times of the Irish Potato Famine many starving people said a final goodbye to their homes began their long voyages to America at Clondra harbour. Traditional folk history can be experienced at the Newtowncashel Heritage Centre, a traditional Irish farmhouse with an interior typical of the 1930s - see how your grandparents would have lived without all the modern conveniences we have today.
Find holiday cottages in County Longford, Ireland, for fishing holidays, walking holidays and exploring the county.