Tucked into the heart of Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Longford is one of those places that rewards anyone willing to slow down and look a little closer. It is not built on big crowds or long queues. Instead it offers ancient history, quiet walking trails, literary heritage and striking architecture, all within easy reach of the town. If you are wondering what there is to see and do, here is our local guide to the best things to do in Longford.
Walk the Royal Canal Greenway
If you do one thing while you are here, make it the Royal Canal Greenway. This flat, traffic-free trail follows the old canal towpath through some of the most peaceful countryside in the midlands, and it is suitable for walkers and cyclists of every level.
You can take on a long stretch or simply wander out for an hour and back, watching out for herons, swans and the occasional barge along the water. It is one of the most relaxing ways to spend a morning in the area, and an easy favourite for families. You can read more about the route on our Royal Canal Greenway page.
Step Back in Time at Corlea Trackway
For something genuinely unique, the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre is hard to beat. It houses a preserved section of an Iron Age bog road, built from oak planks more than two thousand years ago and remarkably intact thanks to the surrounding bog.
The centre brings the story to life with guided exhibitions that explain how, and why, our ancestors built such an ambitious structure across the wetlands. It is a fascinating stop for anyone with an interest in history, and a great rainy-day option. There is more on our Corlea Trackway page.
Visit St Mel’s Cathedral
No visit to Longford is complete without seeing St Mel’s Cathedral. One of the finest examples of neo-classical architecture in the country, the cathedral was beautifully restored after a fire and reopened to widespread acclaim.
The scale and detail of the interior are genuinely impressive, and it is well worth stepping inside to take it in properly. Sitting right in the centre of town, it is an easy addition to any day spent exploring. Find out more on our St Mel’s Cathedral page.
Follow the Edgeworth Literary Trail
Longford has a rich literary heritage, and the Edgeworth Literary Trail celebrates one of its most notable figures. Maria Edgeworth was a hugely influential writer in her day, admired by the likes of Walter Scott and Jane Austen, and the trail connects the places associated with her family and work.
It is a lovely way to combine a gentle walk with a sense of the area’s past, ideal for anyone who enjoys their history with a literary flavour. You can learn more on our Edgeworth Literary Trail page.
Explore Knights and Conquests
For a family-friendly day out, the Knights and Conquests Heritage Centre offers an interactive journey through Longford’s medieval past. With hands-on exhibits and immersive displays, it is a hit with children and adults alike, and a good way to bring the area’s history to life beyond the guidebooks.
It is one of the most engaging indoor attractions in the county, and another solid option whatever the weather. There is more detail on our Knights and Conquests page.
Where to Eat and Stay While You Explore
A day spent walking the greenway or touring the town works up an appetite, and that is where PV’s comes in. Right in the heart of Longford town, it is the natural place to refuel, with relaxed gastropub dining, a proper bar and a warm welcome. You can see what is on at our dine and drink page.
If you are making more than a day of it, PV’s also offers refurbished accommodation, so you can base yourself in the centre of town and have everything within easy reach. Our accommodation page has the details, with rooms available to book online.
Plan Your Trip to Longford
The best thing about Longford is how much you can fit into a short visit without ever feeling rushed. A morning on the greenway, an afternoon at Corlea or Knights and Conquests, and a relaxed evening of food and drink in town makes for a full and easy weekend.
Use PV’s as your base in the heart of Longford, and the rest is right on the doorstep. Book your stay or table and start planning your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best things to do in Longford? Highlights include walking the Royal Canal Greenway, visiting Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, seeing St Mel’s Cathedral, following the Edgeworth Literary Trail and exploring the Knights and Conquests Heritage Centre.
Is Longford good for a day trip? Yes. Longford works well for both a day trip and a weekend, with attractions, walking trails and dining all within easy reach of the town centre.
Where can I stay in Longford town? PV’s offers refurbished accommodation in the heart of Longford town, with rooms available to book online on the accommodation page.
Is the Royal Canal Greenway suitable for families? Yes. The greenway is flat, traffic-free and suitable for walkers and cyclists of all ages and abilities.
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