Why You Should Visit… Longford

While we love a good trip across the seas, the reality is that we live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world so we decided to take a moment and appreciate some of the fantastic spots on this fair isle. From Donegal to Dublin, we are taking an all-Ireland cyber roadtrip to find out what makes each county unique and highlight a few hidden gems that only the locals might know about. This week, we're off to Longford!

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It's not the first place you might think of when planning a staycation but lovely Longford has plenty to offer anyone who makes the trip. St Mel's Cathedral has been described as "one of the finest Roman Catholic churches in Ireland" but was unfortunately destroyed by fire on Christmas Day 2009. Thankfully, it is now fully restored and reopened and is definitely worth a visit. Next on the list should be a stroll along the River Camlin in the northern part of the town and if the weather is in your favour, have a picnic in the Mall Park. There's plenty to do in town and county including watersports, walking and cycling routes, archery, go-karting, equestrian and ten-pin bowling, as well as zorbing, white water rafting and water tubing. But don't listen to us, here's what the locals have to say!

@Herdotie Cruises along the Shannon stopping off for fine food and drink #herlongford — Eims (@MissEims) January 12, 2015

@Herdotie @SineadHus The Haggard in Moyne, beautifully restored mudwall thatch cottage which hosts poetry nights. #HiddenGem — Emmet Masterson (@Sean_Emmet) January 12, 2015

@Herdotie Torc cafe & foodhall..a real treat! — Emma Reid (@emsheenb) January 12, 2015

@Herdotie @SineadHus Top class Kayaking in Ballymahon, St Mels Brewery, St. Mels Cathedral, Viewmount House, John V's Granard for a pint! — Gary O Hanlon (@gazzachef) January 13, 2015

@Herdotie @gazzachef Corlea Bog Kenafh for history, Viewmount House for food, river Inny sports Ballymahon for activity. — Nemo (@NemoTank) January 13, 2015

@Herdotie Luigi's curry chips #HerLongford — Gareth Naughton (@Garrison29) January 12, 2015

@Herdotie you should go to keenans tarmonbarry for something eat!! Amazing! #herlongford — Fraoch Ó Sirideáin (@Heatherrr_xxx) January 14, 2015

@Herdotie Cruthú Arts Festival, and the Little Blue Room (volunteer-run venue with artists playing original music). #HerLongford — Patrick Conboy (@PatrickConboy) January 15, 2015