OUR GUIDED TOURS
Walk in the footsteps of history and discover the rich heritage of picturesque Lismore
MEET & GREET
You will be given an overview of our towns’ varied history, from the arrival of St. Carthage and his monks through the Viking and Norman invasions. We will give you information on how to best spend your time in our beautiful town to make the most of your visit. Your group will receive a brochure with a map highlighting the main tourist attractions and information on where to go for refreshments. To get the most of your time in Lismore talk to our guides.
Monday – Friday. Duration: 10 minutes
€3. Booking is essential.
LISMORE TOWN TOUR
Walk in the footsteps of history in the company of an expert local guide as you discover the rich heritage of picturesque Lismore town.
Hear about the Blackwater Valley Special Area of Conservation and Lismore’s Celtic origins, the monastic foundation in 636AD that led to it becoming an immense center of learning in the 8th Century. From Viking invasions and Norman settlements, gain insights into the historic Lismore Castle and the famous people who resided there including Fred Astaire and John F. Kennedy. Then, marvel at the beauty of Carthage’s Cathedral that has remained a site of worship for over 1500 years.
2pm, Monday – Friday.
Distance: 1km
€8.00 – Adult.
€6.00 – Seniors and Students.
Free – Children under 16.
LADY LOUISA’S WALK
Stroll along the favoured trail of Lady Louisa, the daughter of the 7th Duke of Devonshire.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of nature and hear all about Lady Louisa, her family and their association with Lismore Castle. Enjoy the immense grandeur of Lismore Castle from the many vantage points along this river walk. Learn about the flora and fauna that thrive beside this mighty river.
11am, Monday
Distance: 3km Looped
€8.00 – Adult.
€6.00 – Seniors and Students.
Free – Children under 16.
MOTTE AND BAILEY
Let us take you on a journey through history.
While Lismore was laid out and developed by the Devonshires, its monastic beginnings and centuries of influence can still be felt and seen, this walk takes you to an ancient fording place where the Normans built their Motte and Bailey, the outline can still be seen today.
11am, Wednesday & Friday
Duration: 1.5 hours approx.
Distance: 5.5km Looped
€10.00 – Adult.
€8.00 – Seniors and Students.
Free – Children under 16.
ST. DECLAN’S WAY
The walk will take in a small section of St. Declan’s Way, this includes a short steep incline on the road into Declan’s path where you will get to see a magnificent view of the Blackwater Valley where we take a short break.
Walk in the footsteps of Saints and Scholars along St. Declan’s Pilgrim Path. Lismore was such a great university city of knowledge that it was the dying wish of many to be buried here. It is said that over 27 saints are buried around Lismore. Hear all about his birthplace and his tribe Na nDéise.
11am, Tuesday.
Duration: 2.5 hours approx.
Distance: 7km Looped. Slightly strenuous.
€15 per person
BALLYSAGGARTMORE TOWERS
Your guide will take you along this looped walk through a magical, wooded area where the folly affectionately known as “The Towers” reside.
All the while you will be given an account of the story of Arthur Kiely Usher, how the place came to be and the details hidden around the trail. From the trees lining the path to the history of the buildings themselves, you are sure to find something new and interesting along the way.
11am, Thursday. Duration: 1 hour approx.
Distance: 3km
€10.00 – Adult.
€8.00 – Seniors and Students.
Free – Children under 16.
Leave No Trace
ENJOY LISMORE’S OUTDOORS – LEAVE NO TRACE
What better way to explore Lismore than getting outdoors and exploring. Join one of our many guided walks or take a marked walk to get to know the town of Lismore better. Nothing beats the feeling of being outdoors and being one with nature. Whether you are cycling, walking or just going for a picnic in one of our woodlands, exploring the delights of the towers walk, or taking a hike up the Knockmealdown Mountains – our area is waiting to be enjoyed! We would like to take this opportunity to remind those visiting these great outdoors to practices the seven principles of Leave No Trace at all times and ensure to minimise your impact on our wonderful environment.
To learn more about leave no trace please click Here
Do you still have questions? We have the answers you need – just get in touch.
“This project is supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development and Pobal through the Community Services Programme”