Things to Do
Things to Do in Galway, Lough Derg, Tipperary and Clare
Arts & Heritage
Irish Workhouse Centre
Portumna, Co. Galway. While the workhouse represents the life of the poor at this time, in Portumna, one can also visit the Castle, where the landlord lived and so see both sides of the story. There is another dimension to the Irish Workhouse Centre. It is an exciting conservation and redevelopment project.
Portumna Castle
Portumna Castle and Demesne occupy a magnificent location on the shores of Lough Derg on the River Shannon. Although gutted by fire in 1826, the Castle is still an imposing example of Irish architecture of the early 17th Century. Built before 1618 by Richard de Burgo, 4th Earl of Clanricarde, the castle became the main seat of the de Burgo family for over 200 years. Check out the website for information on opening hours and guided tours.
Portumna Heritage Trail
Check out the fascinating trail that brings you around Portumna. Find out more about the heritage of the historical town, taking in Portumna Castle and Gardens, the Irish Workhouse Centre and lots more.
Derryglad Folk Museum
No trip to the midlands is complete without a visit to the Derryglad Folk Museum, which is hidden in South Roscommon. This heartland of Ireland is a land of lakes and rivers and of unspoiled and unexplored countryside. The collection deals with Farm & Folk life in Ireland from the 18th century to the recent past. The museum is privately owned and run by the Finneran Family and houses a unique 25 year collection of over 3,000 items.
Bodhran Roundstone Music & Crafts and Visitors Centre
Roundstone, Connemara, Co. Galway, we show Bodhran Making each day, 7 days, 10.30 am to 6 pm,Music, Craftshop and Coffee Shop too... its located on an old Franciscan Monastery. A beautiful and interesting place for the family to to see the rare traditions of Ireland and it's culture.
Tel: 00353 95 35808 or email: bodhran@iol.ie
Crann Og Activities
You can come here and do your own thing or you could choose to take part in one of the following activities that you can book at Crann Og. Yoga for adults and kids, Totem Animal imagery, Native woodland walks, Magical kids trail, Mystical tours to ancient sites and lots more.
Cliffs of Moher
Our mission at the Cliffs of Moher Visitors' Centre is to develop and improve the delivery of a world class visitor experience in a safe, welcoming and informative manner while adhering to best practice in the conservation of the Cliffs of Moher, their environs and heritage.
Connemara Heritage Centre
The centre is based around the restored prefamine cottage of Dan O' Hara who was forced to emigrate in the 1840's when he was evicted from his home. Guided tours are both entertaining & educational and offer demonstrations of traditional farming activities such as turf cutting, sheep herding, soda bread making on the open fire and other activities & games Tours are suitable for student groups, school tours, active retired, coach tours, corporate or incentive groups.
Angling & Fishing
Portumna Angling
Portumna - a prime coarse angling centre renowned for its quality angling with specialist operators who are geared to cater for angling tourists. Portumna holds two major fishing competitions each year, and other competitions in between. April is the Waterways Ireland Portumna Festival and in September is the Curley’s Festival Portumna.
Carrigaholt Sea Angling Centre
Runs a purpose built Lochin 366 called the Clare Dragoon and with accommodation in Glencarrig guest house, offers great fishing packages for up to 8 fisherman at a time. With guesthouse and fishing boat, you can fish and Stay. Contact (065) 9058209 or email lukeaston@eircom.net
Boating & Cruising
Shannon Cruising
O'Keeffe's 33ft cruiser, will bring you along the Shannon.Call us in advance and we will arrange lunch, dinner or whatever you may like while you cuise long the relaxing River Shannon. Contact Joe or Avril on (087) 6370226, (087) 6370228 or 090 9747141
Emerald Star Line Portumna
You’ve locked wits with wily pike, brown trout and course fish on beautiful Loug Derg, enjoyed all kinds of watersports in Portumna, and gone cycling to villages, castles and cathedrals. Ireland Angler’s Cruise boat hires delivered exactly what you were looking for — a mix of varied holiday pleasures to long remember. Ancient Celtic ruins definitely caught your imagination!
Cloondavaun Bay Marina
All Marina services available, berthing, large hand stand, covered winter storage, fuel available, lifting equipment, electricity, water, showers, toilets, etc. Maintenance available locally. Contact (087) 6489529 or email: netsullivan@eircom.net
Silverline Cruisers
Hire a cruiser and set sail on one of the finest in Europe with Silverline Cruisers. The River shannon meanders through beautiful Irish countryside.
Corrib Princess
Come and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a cruise with us on board the luxurious Corrib Princess. The Corrib Princess sails from Woodquay in the heart of Galway City, along the famous Steamers Line, which is the lakes traditional route.
Doolin to Aran Island Ferries
We sail daily to the Aran Islands from Doolin. Visit the spectacular Dún Aengus fort on Inis Mor, get away from it all on Inis Meain or take a quick trip to the smallest one - the beautiful island of Inis Oirr.
Children's Activities
Atlantaquaria Galway
Galway Atlantaquaria, National Aquarium of Ireland seeks to present a comprehensive view of the world of water through clear and interesting displays, informed helpful staff and exciting live presentations and animal interaction sessions.
Burren Adventure Activities
Experience fun, adventure and challenge while participating in adventure activities. Learn about yourself - improve self confidence, deal with fear, cope with new and challenging situations.
Burren Nature Sanctuary
Learn about the Burren at our Free Nature and ecology exhibition and in "Nature Quest" the indoor education activity zone. Enjoy artisan food in the Sanctuary Cafe and Gift Shop.
Glendeer Farm
Glendeer Farm is an award winning 6 acre open farm which is family owned and run by the O'Connells. There are 3 aspects to this award winning enterprise:Pet Farm,Self Catering Accommodation,Ireland's Lapland.
Leisure World
Leisure World have outlets in Athlone, Ennis and Galway. This new entertainment centre features 10 Pin Bowling, SpaceKidz children's adventre play area, American Pool and a Subway Restaurant.
Marina Postir Ceramics
Anyone is welcome at my Ceramic Studio & Shop: Neddy's Cottage Dromineer, Nenagh, Co. Tipperrary. Opening times are from Mon to Sun from 2pm-6pm. Offering ceramic classes, shop and lots more. Contact Marina on (0)86 2264303 or email on marinapostir@gmail.com
Planet Galway
Offers something for everyone including: Ten Pin Bowling, Quasar 2000, Tumble Towers & Tumble Tots kids soft play arena, Astro-Turf Soccer pitches, American Pool, Snooker, and the very latest in Video Game Simulators. We also provide fantastic facilities at Peak Physique Health & Fitness Club
Turoe Pet Farm
Offers many opportunities for people to enjoy a fun-filled day out. No matter what the weather conditions are, there is always something to do!
Viking Ship
Come back 1,200 years and join the vikings & cruise up the River Shannon into Lough Ree (1hr 15min) or down river to the majestic Clonmacnois (1hr 30min one way). Snack shop & bar. Email - vikingmike@vikingtoursireland.ie
Equestrian & Horse Riding
Slieve Aughty Horse Riding Centre
A family owned eco-friendly equestrian and activity centre, Slieve Aughty has created a peaceful, welcoming place for families and individuals to immerse themselves in nature’s wonders, spend time with horses and humans, and enjoy comfortable accommodation an delicious organic foods. Conference and special event facilities are available for unique celebrations.
Golfing
Portumna Golf Club
One of Ireland's top Parkland Golf courses, why not visit the Portumna Golf Club course when in the area. And when there try out the fantastic Fairways Restaurant. Phone : +353 (0) 90 9741059 E-Mail : info@portumnagolfclub.ie
Ireland Golf Trips
Proud to offer the best links golf courses in Ireland, award winning accommodation and luxury transport to suit your every need.
Restaurants & Food
Blas Restaurant Portumna
Gourmet Restaurant & Bakery is committed to supplying locally sourced produce, high quality in-house baking and meals made to order, vegetarian & gluten free. Call +353 (0)87 707 9658
La Bouche Portumna
La Bouche is Portumna's finest restaurant. We create amazing gastro experiences for our varied range of customers. Everything is homemade. Where possible, our ingredients are organic and home grown. Got an upcoming event? A communion or confirmation? A baptism or birthday? Don't want the hassle of preparing all the food? Sit back. Relax. We have you covered. We cater for all types of events.
Nuala's Bar & Restaurant
Tuamgraney - provides the ultimate experience in dining and socialising in Ireland. The pub has been part of life in Tuamgraney since 1850 and are proud to still serve our locals and all the visitors to the area to this day.
Larkin's of Garrykennedy
This unique traditional family run Bar & Restaurant is situated in Garrykennedy, on the south shore of Lough Derg on the River Shannon. Beside Ireland's pleasure lake Lough Derg with it's breathtaking views, Larkins offers high standards of service with a personal touch.
Maggie May's, Loughrea
Continue your day with food and drinks in Maggie Mays Bar and Restaurant in Loughrea, great food and great craic, to quench the thirst and appetite after some great Kart racing. Watch all the matches on Sky Sports. Great way to continue your day, before you hit your final destination for your Stag or Hen Party.
Paddy's Bar and Restaurant
Terryglass - Savour their locally produced home cooked food. If your idea of a good night out is velvet pints, open fires and fiddlers raising the roof then Paddy’s Bar in Terryglass is the pub for you.
Derg Inn
Terryglass. Appreciate an appealing and attractive choice of dishes of seasonal produce designed to please the palate. We offer a full a la carte menu plus fresh and exciting Chef Specials are available all day. We also have an all-day tasty bar menu. You can relax with a refreshing beer or leisurely glass of wine at a pace that suits you.
Rafferty's Bar
A family run pub in the scenic village of Craughwell, Co. Galway, on the old Galway - Dublin road (N6). It is a welcoming, cosy pub with a blazing turf fire (for most of the year!), with the personal touch, serving great food & drink 363 days of the year.
Shopping
Ladies Day Boutique
Now you can shop online for Ladies Day Boutique fashions or call in to Ladies Day Boutique Portumna and indulge your passion for fashion at an affordable price.
Stag & Hen Parties
Want someone to take the hassle out of organising a Stag or Hen Party? Check out these great companies!
Extreme Sports
has teamed up with Ireland’s elite adventure companies to bring you a vast selection of fun-fuelled pursuits where you can relish the action in cruise control or get your pulse racing with extreme sports that will test your talent (and nerve) to the max. Why not experience an exciting Stag or Hen Party in Ireland that the Groom or Bride will remember for years to come (and for all for the right reasons).
Henit.ie
Choose a location that appeals to you and activities that your whole group will enjoy. Then, we will take care of all the rest. Do not forget to add games, hen party accessories, or choose a theme to make your hen party a cut above the rest. With our help, you can create that hen party you have been dreaming of! Or, you can simply choose one of our pre-made packages. We guarantee to deliver the best deals and an unforgettable experience.
HenParty.ie
Winner on Dragons Den!Check out our latest Henparty packages in Galway! Hen Party ideas, Hen Party themes, Hen Party activities, Henparty packages & more! And now www.stagparty.ie! We have karting organised for your group on the day of the stag at Europes largest karting track and Paintball in Galway's newest Paintballing Site.
Stag It
We only use the best activity and accommodation centers, all these are processed and picked individually. If we don’t have the package to suit us, just tell us and we’ll do our best to put it together for you.We have everything got to do with your stag party, advice, information, packages.
Coyotes Late Bar and Club
34 Shop Street, Galway, is the city's first purpose built American theme bar. The venue has three different bars, each with a different theme - a Coyote Ugly bar featuring dancers and singers. Al Capone's gangster bar in fifties' style with pool table and jukebox and the old Hollywood themed cocktail bar which provides a selection of cocktails, wines, and champagne in a relaxing, comfortable environment. Now offering customers of Pallas Karting Free Shot Vouchers.
Towns
Portumna
Visit Portumna, Eat, Play and Stay. Nestled on the north shore of Lough Derg and on the River shannon. A town with it all, history, heritage, culture and great food. Check it out. As a destination for a break, to shop or just to enjoy the natural attractions will be one where you are spoiled for choice with what is on offer. A friendly welcome awaits the visitor to this gem of the west. On this site you have all the requirements to find us and make your stay a memorable one. You can choose a place to stay. We have a guide to shopping, eating, drinking and other activities.
Ballinasloe
Gateway to the West and an ideal base for your stay in East Galway. With 4 hotels and near lots of visitor attractions, it is a great place to base your holidays.
Galway East
Galway East is the gateway to vibrant Galway city, and is conveniently located for easy day trips to Connemara, the Burren, Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands and Westport. Come and enjoy the abundance of heritage sites and family activities available in Galway East. Experience the atmosphere in our colourful towns and rural villages during local and international festivals.
Galway East Family Activity Trails
A series of five free Activity Trails which provide all the information you need for a fun, family day out in County Galway. Print out the Trail Maps and Directory for free.
Galway Guide
Includes Business and Tourist information for Galway City and Galway County, including accommodation, restaurants, car rental, property, tourist attractions, and activities.
Galway Ireland West
Galway is a city, a county, and an experience to be savoured and remembered. The historic city of the tribes dances to a beat uniquely its own.
Galway Net
Looking for things to do in Galway, this is the place.
Galway Tourism Ireland
The No.1 Tourism Guide for Galway Ireland, Find out what is going on in Galway Ireland.
Walking & Other Activities
Galway Kempo
Teach the Ed Parker Kempo Karate System which is very much a modern, dynamic, self-defence based martial art and is one of the most respected martial art systems in the world today. American Kenpo is known as the ultimate in street self defence. Its fun, and ideal for all age groups and abilities, building self confidence and awareness.
Forest Marathon Portumna
Half, Full, Ultra, 5k and 10K Forest Marathons held in Portumna Forest Park, test yourself against some of the toughest runners.
Hymany Way Trail
One of a series of 11 sections of the greater Beara Breifne Way, goes in a northerly direction on the western side of the Shannon tracing the epic march of O Sullivan Bere from the Beara peninsula in January 1603. At the start of the route, Portumna has ample accommodation both in hotels and guesthouses and at the end of the route in Aughrim. Free App available showing route.
Lough Derg Heritage App
That gives you detailed routes around Lough Derg (on the Shannon). The app has detailed descriptions of all the points of interest along the way and an ability to listen to a guided tour and browse great photographs of the area.There is an accompanying booklet with detailed information and a map on over 90 heritage sites around the lake as well as 3 audio DVDs.
Mid Ireland Adventure Tours
Mid Ireland Adventure provide a wide range of activities including mountain biking in the Slieve Bloom mountains to water based activities including stand up paddle board (SUP) safaris on the majestic river Shannon or the Grand Canal. Our passion is the great outdoors so let us kick start your adventure today. Contact Jonathan on 085 1735204
Mid Ireland Tourism
Here you will find all the information you need to plan a most enjoyable visit to the midlands of Ireland.
Mullingar Greyhound Stadium
Mullingar Greyhound Stadium are now offering combined accomodation & activity packages with local partners.
Players
Gentlemens Club in Galway and Limerick 087 7777604 for reservations. For over 18's, Stags etc.
Slieve Aughty Walking Club
Based around Kilchreest Village, on the Loughrea-Gort Road. Our local walks are in the Slieve Aughty mountains, which spread over County Galway and County Clare. The highest peak of the range is Maghera in Co. Clare: 400m / 1,314ft. Scattered ruins of villages, isolated houses and old school buildings can be still found on the Aughties.
Karting Tracks
Search for a variety of indoor and outdoor circuits, groups of friends, kids’ birthday parties, stag and hen parties, and corporate team building groups can enjoy the ultimate karting events whatever the weather or time of year.
Watersports
Lough Derg Watersports
Water Sports based on Lough Derg from Kilgarvan Quay, Coolbawn, Nenagh, Co. North Tipperary. Offering kayak/canoe sessions for kids + adults, incl. trips to hidden marinas and islands, fun games for all ages, skill development + much more. Also venturing forth onto the lake from Portumna, Dromineer, Terryglass and other locations dotted along the North East Shores of Lough Derg. Guaranteed fun wherever we paddle! Call Becky on Call 086 411 4822
Watermark, Wakeboard and Waterski School
WaterMark is the place to go Portumna or Terryglass, for any age, any level,All of the following are on offer: - wakeboard - water ski - wake skate - wake surf - barefoot - trick ski - bodyboard - zapcat - great instructors and the very best equipment, you can't help but improve your skills with every second on the water: email - watermark@irishwaterski.com or 087 257 3661.
UL Activity Centre
Learn to sail, windsurf, or Kayaking all at University of Limerick Activity Centre.
Wedding Services
Anna Frins Photography
Professional wedding photographer with a natural, storytelling approach and a distinct documentary style. Anna is available for Wedding Photography nationwide.