Cavan & Leitrim
CAVAN Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark
The Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark inhabits the rugged mountainous uplands and the gentle rolling lowlands of counties Cavan and Fermanagh. Taking in the worldfamous Marble Arch showcave, and the Cavan Burren Park, the park showcases some of the finest natural landscapes in Ireland and offers a window into the area’s 650million year past. A must for fans of geology, archaeology, history, folklore, wildlife and activities such as cycling and walking.
Cavan County Museum
This museum in Ballyjamesduff collects, conserves and displays the material heritage and culture of the county. Enjoy its craft and coffee shop when you visit. Among the many exhibitions include the history of the Gaelic Athletic Association in Cavan from the foundation of the Ballyconnell First Ulsters in the 1880s through the 1920s, the glory days of the 30s, 40s and 50s, to more recent times, and the Pighouse Collection - a collection of clothing ranging from delicate wedding apparel to military dress uniforms. The Farnham Gallery also displays the prominent family’s photographs, mementos, letters, war medals and papers, while a marble bust of Henry, seventh Lord Farnham, is also on display.
Belturbet Heritage Railway
Trainspotters and lovers of the old railways will be right at home at Belturbet Heritage Railway, which was once the Northern Terminus for the Cavan - Leitrim Railway Line. You’ll find it on the banks of the River Erne in the village of Belturbet. Guided tours are available but booking is essential.
LEITRIM Glencar Waterfall
A magical experience, Glencar Waterfall is famous for being an inspiration to Ireland’s greatest poet William Butler Yeats and features in his poem The Stolen Child. The waterfall reaches 50ft high and is situated at Glencar Lough. A short, picturesque wooded walk offers varied viewing platforms to enjoy the waterfall. Entry is free, there’s also a car park, picnic area and children’s playground at this wheelchair friendly location. The TeaSHED Café serves homemade foods and lake views.
Shannon Blueway
Ireland’s blueways are a network of stunning trails along idyllic lakes, canals and rivers that you can escape into the great outdoors by canoe, bike or on foot. A series of on-water and land based trails run from Leitrim, through Roscommon and into Co. Longford. The walking and cycling trails start on Ireland’s first floating boardwalk at Acres Lake in Drumshanbo.
Manorhamilton Castle
Sometime between 1634 and 1638 Sir Frederick Hamilton built Manorhamilton Castle - one of a group of six in Ireland which feature defensive flanking towers at each corner. A permanent exhibition is on display at Manorhamilton Castle Heritage Centre, including artifacts from the 17th century, replica period costumes, furniture, a castle model and other interesting items and information which allow you to peek through the centuries to what life was like when the castle was in use.