The DUBLIN Directory 2022

Irish Workhouse Centre, Galway The workhouse has been described as “the most feared and hated institution ever established in Ireland.” At Portumna, visitors enter the workhouse via the waiting room, the same room people came through when seeking admission to the workhouse. A short film is shown, in what was the girls’ classroom. After this, you are guided through the yard and dormitory block, including the matron’s quarters, the nursery, the women’s workroom and then the laundry. The guided tour lasts about one hour with complimentary teas/coffees afterward, and there are ongoing exhibitions also. Clonalis House, Roscommon Learn the fascinating story behind one of Ireland’s oldest families and historic homes. The O’Conor family (with its rich history of eleven High Kings of Ireland and 26 Kings of Connacht) has lived on this 800 acre estate, overlooking the River Suck, for an unrivalled 1,000 years. Built on an elevated site, in a Victorian Italianate style, Clonalis House is a treasure trove that includes historic correspondence, heirlooms, O’Conor family portraits, the harp of Turlough O’Carolan (the famous blind, Celtic harper) and the magnificent Clonalis Library; with more than 7000 volumes, it is widely considered to be one of the best private collections in Ireland. Activities Slow Adventure, Leitrim Choose to experience ‘lovely Leitrim’ by bicycle, open canoe, paddle board or on your own two feet(!) and uncover a place less travelled. Cavan Adventure, Cavan Through Cavan Adventure Centre, visitors are accompanied by a local guide, who shares local stories and legends during a spell-binding exploration of this lake and the island castle by kayak (or by powerboat). Lough Key Forest Park, Roscommon Lough Key Forest Park comprises of vast woodland and numerous islands and Ireland’s only Tree Canopy Walk (300m). Carrick Craft, Cruise Holidays on the River Shannon Operating along some 300 majestic miles of silvery waterway, Carrick Craft have provided idyllic cruising holidays in Ireland for over 35 years. Centre Parcs, Longford Whether you’re looking for a tranquil mini- break or an adrenaline-fuelled getaway; or perhaps a bit of both, Centre Parc’s amenities make it easy to get everything you want out of your trip. For further information and sample itineraries please visit www.irelandshiddenheartlands. discoverireland.ie/ IRELAND’S HIDDEN HEARTLANDS 231