Heritage
Hand-me-downs from history
Before this place was called Cavan it was called Breifne, & before that it was called something else.
This land has been home for Neolithic, Bronze Age, Celtic, Norman & Early Christian peoples. They all left their mark. Clough Oughter Castle was built by the Normans in the 12th century. The locals were so impressed by the place that they quickly captured it for themselves.
The O’Reilly fought hard to retain this roof over their heads until Cromwell’s forces finally blasted through the walls in 1653. The breached walls lie where they fell, and for hundreds of years the castle has belonged to no one but it’s painters, poets and curious visitors. So what was all the fuss about? The same as it ever was – location, location, location!
Stunning views. Located on the R200 between Derrynacreeve Junction and Glangevlin. – a Geopark site.
Specialised Teddy Bear Gift Shop & Crafts Studio Experience. Gardens, playground, events and picnic area. Part of the Craft Studio Experience
Historic cut-stone station on the famed narrow gauge railway line. Open Fri – Sun 12pm – 5pm.
The Breffni Gallery celebrates the history of Cavan GAA, with information, imagery and memorabilia.
Marked 1km trail telling the story of the Demesne including Col. Edward Saunderson, the ‘father of modern unionism’
Historic cathedral completed in 1860 by William Hague with 12th century Romanesque door.
A visit to this spectacular megalithic landscape, overlooked by majestic Cuilcagh Mountain is a must. Free entry. Four marked trails and visitor centre. Toilets and parking.
Award-winning museum. WW1 Trench Experience, 1916 Rising Experience, Peace Garden, shop, cafe, playground and Nun’s Walk.
A self-guided walking tour of historic Cavan town.
Dramatic 13th century Norman Castle in the middle of Lough Oughter accessible by water only.
A well-preserved double chamber tomb, c. 2000 BC. -3 miles southeast of Cootehill on the R181.
Listed 1840s Georgian-style house and gardens with majority of its period features. House and gardens open to the public.
Demonstrations and classes in wool spinning, butter making, traditional bread making, crochet, embroidery, and knitting.
Recognised by UNESCO for unique geological landscapes, the Geopark spans the uplands of Cavan and Fermanagh. Year round programme of events.
Overlooking Garfinny Lough, the abbey was founded by St. Colmcille and boasts fine stonework and a 10 metre high round tower
Workshops and Demos. Make your own traditional Irish basket or purchase your own hand-made basket made from Irish willow – the perfect Irish craft!
A stunning national trust property, on the Cavan / Fermanagh border near Blacklion.
Thatched 18th century famous pub with old world charm. Trad music Thurs night and Sunday afternoon.
A Buddhist meditation and retreat centre on a beautiful 19th century estate. Accommodation available.
Experience a time of Knights & Conquests. An interactive and fun journey through time.
Distance: 7 km | Grade: Moderate Terrain: Mountain and forest paths. Incredible views.
The inauguration site of the Maguire clan in medieval times.
An early Christian fort with circular thick stone wall and two small staircases. Beautiful views. A UNESCO Geopark site
2km family friendly walk in the grounds of Cavan County Museum. Children’s playground, coffee shop, WW1 Trench Experience and GPO outdoor experience also available.
Restored 17th Century plantation castle, picturesquely situated on the shores of Lough Gill in County Leitrim. Guided tours available. €5 adults €3 children €13 families. 35Km from Blacklion.
Rock climbing experiences for adults, children and families.
Dedicated to the life of St. Kilian who was born in Mullagh and went on to become patron saint in Wurzburg, Germany
Christian Heritage
A picturesque, mysterious island around which many legends swirl. It is said that on this island, St. Mogue was born.
Atmospheric graveyard with ancient origins. One of the few Jacobean style churches remaining in Ireland.
The source of the mighty River Shannon. Short marked trail and play area.
Unearth your Cavan connections at Cavan Genealogy Centre
6km southwest of Swanlinbar.
Beautiful, serene waterfalls –a UNESCO Geopark site.
A neogothic castle, tearooms and world famous gardens
1km walking trail along the River Erne. Picnic benches. Home to the Dreamscape outdoor art exhibition.
An excellent example of an active river forming a cave.
The largest outdoor replica trench in Ireland or the UK – includes visual and sound effects.