About the Area
Termonbarry is steeped in history and mythology. It is first mentioned in the Tain – the epic tale of the Cattle Raid at Cooley “Legend has it that Queen Meave’s Army crossed the Shannon here on their way to capture the Brown Bull of Cooley”. Experience this and much more at the Interpretive Centres and Archaeological sites in Co Roscommon.
In the 6th century St Barry established a religious settlement here in Termonbarry (from Tearmann Bearach: Sanctuary of Bearach), having crossed the Shannon in a stone boat – The boat is on display in the church grounds in nearby Whitehall (1.5miles).
Neighbouring Clondra (0.5 miles) was a hive of commercial activity during the 19th and early 20th centuries as the terminus of The Royal Canal. The canal was the principal transport route from the West through the Midlands to Dublin, you can see many relics of a bygone age on the many walks through the village and along the canal.
A number of large estates were established in the area during the Elizabethan plantation of Ireland. These families left us with a legacy of interesting places to visit – Strokestown House Gardens & Famine Museum, King House, Lissadell House Gardens and 1916 Museum, Belvedere House, Clonalis House and others.
Arigna Coal Mines were a source of employment for the locals until their closure as a commercial venture in the early 1970’s. Nowadays former miners give a worthwhile tour of the mines – providing first hand knowledge of the wonders and hardships of the mining life.
There are a large variety of recreational and social activities to choose from:
- Golfing 5 courses within 30 minutes drive including Longford Golf Club 6 miles Par 69.
- Coarse Angling (bream, roach, rudd)
- Boat Hire and Cruises on the Shannon
- Horse Riding at two locations within 15 minutes drive
- Horse Racing at Roscommon, Greyhound Racing at Longford track
- Go Karting, Soccer, Archery
- Art Galleries, Multiplex Cinema, Theatre
- Indoor Bowling, Tennis, Swimming pool and Fitness Centre in Longford town
- Excellent Restaurants and Pubs on your doorstep
- Traditional music and Set Dancing locally and in nearby villages/towns
Useful links