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Glengowla Mines: A Journey into Connemara's Mining Past

Explore a 19th-century silver and lead mine in Connemara. Guided tours, gold panning, farm animals, and demonstrations await at Glengowla Mines!

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Descend into the depths of Glengowla Mines, Ireland's only 'show mine', and explore the fascinating history of 19th-century silver and lead mining. Located near Oughterard in County Galway, this unique attraction offers guided tours, demonstrations, and a glimpse into the lives of the miners who toiled beneath the Connemara mountains.

A brief summary to Glengowla Mines

  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes and a light jacket, as the mine can be cool and damp.
  • Book sheep herding and turf cutting demonstrations in advance to ensure availability.
  • Allow ample time to explore the farm grounds and enjoy a picnic amidst the beautiful Connemara countryside.
  • Check the Glengowla Mines website for seasonal opening hours and special events.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Glengowla Mines is located approximately 3km west of Oughterard, just off the N59 Galway to Clifden road. From Oughterard, follow the N59 towards Clifden. After about 3km, you'll see signs for Glengowla Mines on your left. Turn left and follow the road for 300 meters to the mine entrance. There is free parking available on site.

  • Public Transport

    Bus Éireann route 419 operates from Galway to Glengowla. The bus departs from Lower Newcastle in Galway and arrives at Glengowla. The journey takes approximately 38-46 minutes. From the bus stop, it is a short walk to the mine entrance. A single fare on Bus Éireann from Galway to Glengowla costs approximately €5-€9.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Galway to Glengowla Mines takes approximately 28-29 minutes and costs around €50-€65. Taxis are readily available in Galway city center. It is advisable to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Glengowla Mines

Glengowla Mines offers a unique and memorable experience, inviting visitors to step back in time and explore the depths of Connemara's industrial heritage. This remarkable 19th-century silver and lead mine, located just 3km west of Oughterard, has been carefully restored and transformed into a captivating visitor attraction. Originally opened in 1851, the mines provided a source of employment during the Great Irish Famine, extracting valuable minerals like lead and silver. For fourteen years, miners toiled in the challenging underground conditions until the mine's closure in 1865. Today, visitors can descend into the depths of the mine, following in the footsteps of those who worked there over a century ago. The guided underground tour takes you through a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers, showcasing the impressive geology of the area. Marvel at the marble caverns adorned with lead and silver pyrite, and discover veins of calcite and quartz. Learn about the tools and techniques used by the miners, and gain insight into their daily lives and working conditions. Above ground, Glengowla Mines offers a variety of activities for all ages. Try your hand at gold and gemstone panning, explore the heritage center and blacksmith's shop, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along part of the old Galway-Clifden railway line. Visitors can also witness sheep herding demonstrations and turf cutting demonstrations. Glengowla Mines is also part of Ireland's National Seismic Network, and visitors can view a working seismograph.

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