Discover the Hidden Heartlands
Explore the area
Walking & Hiking (10 mins)
Strokestown Park House & National Famine Museum
A short drive from Willowbrook lies Strokestown Park House, a beautifully preserved Georgian mansion set on sprawling grounds that offer a fascinating window into Ireland’s past. Inside the former family home you’ll find elegant period rooms, charming architecture, and a sense of life in rural Ireland centuries ago. But the true heart of the experience is the National Famine Museum — one of the most compelling attractions in Ireland. Here, a remarkable collection of original documents, letters and artefacts tells the personal stories of families whose lives were forever changed during the Great Irish Famine of the 1840s. It’s a moving, educational experience that brings history to life and gives visitors a deep connection to the land and its people.
Arigna Mining Experience
For something truly unique and unforgettable, head north to the Arigna Mining Experience, where Ireland’s industrial heritage really comes alive. In the heart of rural Roscommon, this award-winning attraction takes you deep underground into what was once a working coal mine, guided by real former miners whose stories and knowledge make the tour both riveting and personal. Above ground, interactive exhibits reveal how mining shaped local life over centuries, while the café and gift shop provide a relaxing space to reflect on the adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for an engaging day out, or simply someone who wants to experience something different in the Hidden Heartlands, Arigna offers a fascinating insight into one of Ireland’s most enduring industries.
Coleman’s traditional Irish music centre, Gurteen (15 mins)
Colemans Irish music visitor centre is open to the public all year round and offers an interactive exhibition on the history of traditional Irish music. The Colemans school of music operates out of here teaching children and adults tradition Irish instruments and dance. The theatre hosts concerts and event throughout the year.
Urlaur Abbey, Kilkelly (15 mins)
On the shores of Urlaur Lake lies a monastic settlement founded in 1430 by the Dominicans. It is now a ruin, but it has been remarkably well preserved. A wonderful place to visit for those who fancy taking a walk close to some ancient ruins or just a stroll through some natural beauty.
King House, Boyle (25 mins)
A near 3 century old restored Georgian mansion which operates as a museum, housing a number of fascinating collections of local historical significance and is also home to the Boyle civic arts collection. The mansion also regularly hosts many arts and cultural events and is a key part of the annual Boyle arts festival. The house is open to visitors Tuesdays – Sundays from April to September and admission is very reasonable at €10 for adults and €7 for children with discounts for large groups / families.
Caves of keash and carrowkeel passage tombs, Ballymote (30 mins)
Petting Farms (30 mins)
Graune Pet Farm (30 mins away) and Glendeer Pet Farm (1 hour away but worth the trip) are 2 petting farms we can recommend.
Indoor Fun (30-40 mins)
On those rainy days, when you need something to keep the kids entertained, an indoor activity keeps everyone happy. Pots of fun is an indoor play centre in Claremorris (30 mins) is ideal for toddlers and younger kids. For those a little older, Jump street trampoline centre in Carrick on Shannon (35 mins) is a brilliant fun. They also have indoor karting on site. Another great option is Roscommon Leisure Zone which has 10 pin bowling as well as an indoor play centre. If you’d prefer to relax in front of a big screen, there are cinemas in Carrick on Shannon, Castlebar and Sligo.
P Mac’s kayaks – Guided Kayak Tours (20 mins)
Lough key forest park, Boyle (30 mins)
A park which boasts extensive woodlands, with walking trails, a tree canopy walk, and an intriguing history, being the place of residence of the powerful medieval McDermott family for centuries. The visitor centre and café are open 7 days per week during the summer with limited opening hours at other times of the year.
Rathcroghan visitor centre, Tulsk (30 mins)
Museum of country life, Castlebar (40 mins)
Food / Drink / Entertainment
Our fully stocked campers kitchen can be used to prepare and eat meals, however if you prefer to eat out or take some time to get to know a pint of G, Ballaghaderreen (5 mins) and Castlerea (15 mins) have got plenty to offer:
Eating
The Fiddlers Elbow (Ballaghaderreen)
The Fiddler’s offer daily lunch and dinner options with the Sunday roast menu being a regular favourite!
Bombay Palace (Castlerea)
Outstanding Indian restaurant. We have eaten there many times and are always happy to recommend it.
Durkins (Ballaghaderreen)
Traditional Irish dishes served by friendly staff.
Roberto’s take away (Ballaghaderreen)
If it’s a burger and chips you want, it’s hard to to go wrong with Roberto’s on the square in Ballaghaderreen.
Pizza Max (Ballaghaderreen)
Benny’s Café & Bakery (Castlerea)
Folie a deux’, Ballaghaderreen
small cozy cafe and bistro serving only damn fine coffee and food.
The Square, Ballaghaderreen, Roscommon F45XT73.
pet friendly.
Drinks
Spells (Ballaghaderreen)
Liveliest pub in Ballaghaderreen, with live music most nights.
Mulligans (Ballaghaderreen)
Great for a daytime pint of stout, closes early though because it’s in the hardware shop!
Solan’s (Ballaghaderreen)
Lovely little pub with a cosy atmosphere. The type of pub we missed when we lived abroad…
McGourtys bar (Castlerea)
The Hatch (Ballaghaderreen)
Creatons Bar (Lisacul)
Molly’s bar (Ballaghaderreen)
