Explore the Area
The O’Carolan Harp Festival is a wonderful opportunity to discover Keadue, County Roscommon, and the beautiful surrounding region. Located in the heart of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Keadue is an ideal base for exploring the rich history, spectacular landscapes and many attractions of County Roscommon and the neighbouring counties of Leitrim, Sligo and Westmeath.
From historic castles, ancient monuments and heritage sites to lakes, forests, walking trails and outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in Roscommon and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore the scenic landscapes around Keadue and Lough Meelagh, discover the heritage of north Roscommon, or venture further afield to experience some of the region’s best-known attractions.
Nearby Boyle is home to the impressive 12th-century Boyle Abbey and King House, while Lough Key Forest and Activity Park offers woodland walks, lake views and activities for visitors of all ages. The Arigna Mining Experience provides a fascinating insight into the area’s industrial heritage, while Kilronan Castle and its surrounding grounds offer another opportunity to enjoy the beauty and history of north Roscommon.
Further south, attractions such as Strokestown Park and the National Famine Museum and Rathcroghan Visitor Centre provide an insight into Ireland’s rich and often dramatic past.
The surrounding counties also offer many opportunities for day trips, with the landscapes of County Leitrim and County Sligo particularly close to Keadue.
Whether you are interested in traditional music and culture, history and heritage, walking and cycling, lakes and waterways, or simply enjoying the scenery and hospitality of the Irish countryside, there is plenty to discover during your visit to the O’Carolan Harp Festival.
Use the attractions below to plan your visit and make the most of your time in Keadue, County Roscommon and the surrounding region.
Kilronan Castle
Towards the end of the 18th century the property later known as Castle Tenison, together with its surrounding estate, belonged to the Dundas family. They sold it in 1715 to Richard Tenison, of the English Tenison family, who was the son of the Bishop of Meath and MP for Dunleer.
For more than 300 years, this 40-acre estate remained in the Tenison family, before falling into disrepair in their absence. In 2006, it was lovingly brought back to life by passionate Irish father and son, Alan and Albert Hanly. It is currently a four-star luxury hotel with a spa and leisure centre.
Church of the Nativity of The Blessed Virgin Mary (St. Mary’s, Keadue)
The parish church of Kilronan in Keadue is a Gothic Revival Church designed by J.J. McCarthy, a notable architect of the 19th century. Daniel O’Connell, grandson of “The Liberator”, was also involved as an architect in the early part of the project. The site for the church as well as some financial assistance was given by the Landlord, E. King Tenison Esq. of Kilronan Castle. The foundation stone was laid on 15th August 1860 by Bishop Kilduff and the church was dedicated on 8th September 1885 by Bishop Woodlock.
The stained-glass windows in the sanctuary add to the beauty and prayerfulness of the church. The patron saints of the parish of Kilronan, St. Ronan and his daughter St. Lasair are commemorated in the windows in the side chapel.
Bishop Cahal B. Daly (later Cardinal) donated and dedicated the altar in memory of his father, Charles Daly, who was a native of Keadue, at the renovation of the church in 1981.
Weekday mass – Monday 10 a.m.
Weekend mass – Sunday 11:30 a.m.
Knockranny Wood
Knockranny Wood is located on the shore of Lough Meelagh, close to the village of Keadue. It is home to many of Ireland’s native plant and animal species. It is mainly a conifer plantation comprising Sitka Spruce, Grand Fir and Scots Pine. However, look closely and you will discover a variety of deciduous tree species including Alder, Ash, Beech, Birch and Oak.
You can explore the Knockranny Wood loop by following the nature trail, and learn more about the plants and animals that inhabit this special place.
Lough Meelagh Crannóg
“Lough Meelagh” means “The Lake of the Marsh” and it is on the lake’s island that St. Ronan and St. Lasair were laid to rest.
There are several “Crannógs” on the lake.
These man-made islands, of timber and rock, were used for defence and habitation, and were occupied during the early Christian period through to the seventeenth century.
Knockranny Court Tomb
Explore Ireland’s rich prehistoric heritage with a visit to Knockranny Wood, home to a remarkable example of a megalithic court tomb. Dating back to the Neolithic period (c. 3500-2000 B.C.), this ancient structure provides a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s early history when farming was first introduced.
The structure visible in Knockranny Wood belongs to a distinctive type of megalithic tomb called a court tomb.
The court tomb is characterised by having an open, usually subcircular court at the end. At Knockranny the court has a gallery consisting of two chambers , built of large stone, entering off from it.
Excavations throughout Ireland suggests that human remains, usually cremated, were placed within the chambers. Grave goods such as decorated and undecorated pottery, flint scrapers, arrowheads, and occasionally beads, or polished stone axeheads were often deposited with the remains.
The gallery at Knockranny seems to have been originally covered with a rectangular stone cairn, now mostly removed or incorporated into modern field walls. It is generally held that the open court was used for some sort of religious or ritual activity. The presence of at least three court tombs around the village of Keadue shows that todays farmers in the area are the inheritors of a tradition that spans five thousand years.
Kilronan Abbey
According to tradition St Ronan and his daughter St Lasair established a church here on the banks of Lough Meelagh in the 6th century. The present church ruin, which dates from the 14th century, was built by the O’Duignan family. On the northern side of the church is a crypt belonging to the McDermott Roe family.
This is where Turlough O’Carolan, the last of the Irish Bards, is buried.
The Abbey was used by monks, one of whom is buried within the ruins. Details of his death are carved on a large flagstone which is still inside the Abbey wall.
O’Carolan Heritage Park
The O’Carolan Heritage Park was officially opened by Cardinal Cathal Daly during the O’Carolan Harp Festival held in 1993.
The sculpture located in the centre of the park was designed and created by Sculptor Fred Conlon.
The bronze harp displayed on the granite rock is a replica of the harp which would have been played by O’Carolan.
Sweat House – Restored Sweat House
One of about 50 such sweat houses in Kilronan Parish. These were the forerunners of the modern Sauna. The idea of sweating out fevers and aches in bones was taken from here to Scandinavia by the Norman’s in the middle ages.
Arigna Mining Experience
DISCOVER IRELAND’S LAST WORKING COAL MINE
Experience the thrill of venturing deep into the heart of an authentic coal mine with real former miners as your guides. Unearth the stories, history, and hard work that powered Ireland’s industries for centuries.
- Authentic underground tourled by former miners
- Learn about mining life from the 1700s to 1990
- Interactive exhibits showcasing mining tools, machinery, and the community’s story
Lough Key Forest Park
ENTER A WORLD OF ADVENTURE
Experience thrilling activities, serene tracks & trails, and rich history at Lough Key Forest and Activity Park. Adventure awaits! Dive in to explore…..
The Shed Distillery
VISIT THE SHED DISTILLERY
Embark on a Curious Journey of your own at the home of Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin. Discover the real story that brought the refreshing notes of fresh citrus, oriental botanicals and Gunpowder tea to life through the fully operational, authentic Shed Distillery of PJ Rigney, Drumshanbo, Co. Leitrim. A fully guided experience with one of our Curious Ambassadors including an expert tasting of our Drumshanbo Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey and finish off with a refreshing Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin and tonic at the Honey Badger Bar, in the majestic botanical glasshouse.
THE CURIOUS JOURNEY DISTILLERY TOUR
HONEY BADGER BAR EXPERIENCE
THE CURIOUS GIFT SHOP
THE JACKALOPE CAFÉ
TAILS & TAPAS
Acres Lake Boardwalk
Acres Lake Boardwalk is Ireland’s first floating boardwalk.
The 600m boardwalk, in the picturesque village of Drumshanbo, is the start of a 6.5km linear walking and cycling trail along the Shannon Blueway from Acres Lake to Battlebridge Lock, near Leitrim Village.
The spectacular scenery at Acres lake make it a perfect spot for a picnic or even to just to sit for a while and take in the peace and tranquillity.
The walk connects to the Drumhauver Bridge loop walk and the Drumleague Lock loop walk.
Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway
OUR HIDEAWAY SANCTUARY
Discover your new sanctuary at Drumhierny Woodland Hideaway, a 100 acre estate, just waiting to be explored. This exclusive Hideaway offers 16 lodges nestled within their own private area of the woodland with 5km of tracks & trails throughout the Estate leading you to hidden fairy forts and on all sorts of adventures.
Lough Allen Adventure Centre
At Lough Allen Adventure Co. Leitrim, we offer more than just outdoor activities – we create transformative experiences that inspire connection, growth, and well-being. Join a community where adventure has meaning, where sustainability is second nature, and where every moment brings you closer to nature, yourself, and others.
Moorlands Equestrian Centre
We offer top class livery facilities at competitive rates and Moorlands is directly involved with both the local hunt (The Leitrim Harriers) and The Leitrim Riding Club so livery owners have plenty of opportunities to get involved in a variety of equestrian activities.
Children are especially well catered for with regular Pony Camps and kids Clubs which provide the ideal environment for them to take their first few steps into the wonderful world of horses.
Sliabh an Iarainn Visitor Centre
The Sliabh an Iarainn Visitor Centre is located in the picturesque setting of Acres Lake in Drumshanbo.
The Centre has audio-visual displays about the Arigna and the Sliabh an Iarainn mountains area, with a special emphasis on the railway, the canal, lakes, and iron and coal mining and musical heritage of the area. The short audio-visual show will take you through the sights and scenes of nearby lakes, mountains, and towns, highlighting the beauty of this land of legend and wonder.
Moon River Cruise
Experience the wonders of the outdoors and delve into history by cruising with Moon River.
Get a taste of adventure right here on the River Shannon and visit the ancient sites along the river banks.
We’ve been giving luxury cruises to people just like you for over 25 years. Our fully-enclosed, heated cruiser is the ideal place to take in the wonders hidden long the River Shannon in comfort.
Our goal is to ensure that you’re fully relaxed and enjoy the beauty of Ireland’s finest river.
Want to try something different for a special evening out?
Our friendly staff will make your trip a night to be remembered. Enjoy live music, a fully licensed bar and catering on-board for the perfect night out for friends, colleagues, hen parties, and stag parties.
Electric Bike Trails
If you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing way to take a break, Leitrim has it all!
From the traffic-free, scenic bike trails along the Shannon Blueway and Shannon Erne Blueway to the quiet country roads, there’s truly something for everyone.
The Shannon Blueway is a traffic free cycle route along the Lough Allen Canal between Leitrim Village and Drumshanbo Village crossing the iconic Acres Lake floating boardwalk, (20 Km round trip).
The fantastic Shannon Erne Blueway route runs from Leitrim Village to Kilclare and is the perfect trail to take if you want to enjoy the scenery, but don’t have the time for a longer trip, (10 km round trip).
Here at Electric Bike Trails, we have both regular bikes and electric bikes for hire (we even have tandems!) so the whole family can get out in the fresh air and enjoy a well-deserved break.
Explore the serenity of Leitrim’s natural landscape and enjoy its unspoiled beauty before delving into fabulous restaurants to sample the delicious local produce Leitrim has to offer.
King House
King House is a restored georgian mansion in Boyle, Co. Roscommon.
It is a unique visitor centre that not only tells the story of this important house as a home to the King family and later a barracks to the Connaught Rangers, but also displays important cultural collections and Irish history exhibitions.
Boyle Abbey
Boyle Cistercian Abbey
This Cistercian monastery was founded in the twelfth century by monks from Mellifont Abbey under the patronage of the local ruling family, the MacDermotts. It was one of the most powerful of the early Cistercian foundations in Ireland and among the foremost in Connacht.
Cromwellian forces wreaked devastation when they occupied the abbey in 1659. It was further mutilated during the following centuries, when it was used to accommodate a military garrison. Despite all the violence it has suffered over the centuries, Boyle Abbey is well preserved and retains its ability to impress.
A sixteenth/seventeenth-century gatehouse has been restored and turned into an interpretive centre, where you can learn more about the abbey’s gripping history.
Strokestown House
Visit Strokestown Park House, Gardens & National Famine Museum to discover the intimate and intriguing links between dramatically different Irish lives.
Costello Chapel
Costello Memorial Chapel is the smallest chapel in Europe and the 2nd smallest in the world.
A remarkable example of a mans deep affection for his wife is to be found at Carrick-on-Shannon County Leitrim, in the Costello Memorial Chapel, reputed to be the second smallest chapel in the world.
Only in the Holy Land is their said to be one tinier; certainly the Building is unique in this country and is considerably smaller than the smallest similar structure in Britain. The Chapel is sixteen feet long by twelve foot wide and thus covers an area of 192 feet. The smallest in Britain for which a restoration and preservation fund has now been opened, is at Upleathan in Middlesborough and measures sixteen feet by fifteen or 270 square feet. It is then 78 square feet larger than that at Carrick. The Costello Memorial Chapel was erected by Edward Costello to mark his devotion to his wife, who died in 1877 at the age of 46. Mr Costello had been a substantial farmer at Dromore a few miles from Carrick, but had moved to the town during the early part of the 1800’s and set himself up in business. He was widely known as a man of great kindness and charity and was partly instrumental in bringing the marist order of nuns to the town.
St. George’s Heritage & Visitor Centre
St. George’s Heritage and Visitor Centre combines the stories of three historically important buildings in Carrick-on- Shannon: St. George’s Church, the Famine Workhouse and the Costello Chapel. A visit to these sites begins at the St. George’s Heritage and Visitor centre, where the story of Leitrim, its landscape, history and the hardships faced by its people during the 1800s is introduced in an audio-visual presentation.
St. George’s Church was established in 1827. It has been fully restored and its airy interior is lit by the glowing colours of beautiful stained glass windows. The Visitor Centre houses a small historical exhibition that includes artefacts and interpretive material depicting the ‘Twin Traditions’ that mingle ancient Gaelic roots with Plantation culture.
Leitrim Design House
A not-for-profit organisation, the Leitrim Design House nurtures Irish craftsmanship and assists small craft & design businesses to develop and showcase their designs. Its flagship gallery has been recommended by the Design & Craft Council of Ireland as one of the leading craft and design outlets in the country and is considered one of the landmark visitor attractions in the region.