Cavan prides itself as being one of the most welcoming counties in all of Ireland- and we are one of the most accessible too- catering for people with all disabilities and giving everyone the chance to enjoy our amazing landscape. There are many attractions that are easy to visit if you have a disability or require assistance with access or are a guardian with small children and a buggy. Pre-planning will help you enjoy a visit to County Cavan at any time of the year. Here’s a list of accessible friendly places to stay and things to do to help you plan your trip.

Places to stay

You will find most Cavan accommodation cater for anyone with disabilities. Where ground floor rooms are not available many hotels will offer a lift. Lowered sinks, raised toilets, roll in shower, shower chairs, and walk in showers feature in most properties. For a list of all our accommodation providers in the County just visit our website here. Be sure to mention your requirements when booking your stay.

Accessible walks and trails

Getting out in the fresh air should be enjoyed by everyone. In 2013, Cavan town was the Irish winner of “European Destination of Excellence” (EDEN) award for ‘Accessible Tourism’ and still ranks in the top towns for accessibility in Europe. Walks that can be enjoyed by people with all abilities include Dún a Rí forest park in Kingscourt, The Killykeen way in Killykeen Forest park, the multi access path at Cavan Burren Park, the multi access walk at Deerpark Forest in Virginia and Turbet Island in Belturbet.

Cavan County Museum

One of the highlights of your trip to Cavan will be at Cavan County Museum. Originally a convent for the Poor Clare Sisters, the building dates back to 1872 and retains many of its architectural features. Today, it is home to a diverse array of exhibitions which communicate Cavan’s story within Ireland’s broader historical context. Discover an array of exhibitions and events all year around.

Bear Essentials

This specialised Teddy Bear Gift Shop & Crafts Studio Experience is a must see on your visit to Cavan and is fully accessible. Gardens, playground, events, and a picnic area are all available here. Part of the Craft Studio Experience

Cavan adventure Centre

Cavan adventure Centre delivers guided canoe, kayak and boat trips around scenic Lough Oughter. The centre is equipped to cater for visitors with intellectual and physical disabilities. Call in advance to discuss options.

Killinkere Visitor centre

This visitor farm situated just outside Virginia has large and small animals for you to visit. It is suitable for visitors with disabilities. Children will enjoy petting and feeding the animals. Nature walks, heritage trail, pony rides, tractor trailer rides (suitable for wheelchairs) and hands on farming fun. Call in advance to book your visit.

Castle Saunderson International Scouting Centre, Belturbet

Castle Saunderson Scouting Facility is fully accessible. Access features include lift, ramps, push button accessibility doors, parking bays, low access reception desk, accessible toilets, and shower blocks. Contact them directly for camping bookings and events.

Belturbet Heritage Railway

Experience days gone by at Belturbet Heritage Railway station. As well as housing a museum, the station also plays hosts to plenty of events and performances throughout the year.

St Killians Heritage Centre

A warm welcome awaits you at the Saint Kilian’s Heritage Centre where, upon arrival, you will immediately start to get a feel of what life was like for Saint Kilian. The exhibition at Saint Kilian’s Heritage Centre in Mullagh begins with a 12-minute audio-visual presentation available in English, German and Irish dealing with St. Kilian and his times, his work, martyrdom and subsequent cult. The centre is fully accessible for your visit.

Derryham Stables

Derryham stables in Baileborough, County Cavan has a purpose-built sand surfaced therapeutic sensory trail with a water feature the horses can walk and splash through and man-made hills to improve balance as the horses walk up, over and down the hills.  Therapeutic horse riding is a therapy which is used for children and adults with a variety of physical, cognitive, emotional, and developmental disabilities. Therapeutic Riding has been acknowledged to improve physical, emotional, social, cognitive, behavioural, and educational skills along with being a healthy and fun activity. Just another option to enjoy on your visit.

In Cavan, we care about inclusivity. Our goal is for everyone to feel welcome. We are continuing to work hard to ensure everybody can participate and enjoy all that Cavan has to offer. For a full list of maps and guides available to plan your trip just visit our website here.

To keep up to date will all of our offers and news just subscribe to our newsletter here