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Connemara Heritage & History Centre: Dan O'Hara's Homestead

Discover Connemara's heritage at Dan O'Hara's Homestead: an open-air museum with reconstructed dwellings, farm animals, and cultural insights.

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Step back in time at the Connemara Heritage & History Centre, also known as Dan O'Hara's Homestead, an open-air museum offering a glimpse into 19th-century Irish life. Explore a restored pre-famine cottage, witness traditional farming practices, and learn about the history of Connemara and the O'Hara family's story of eviction and emigration.

A brief summary to Connemara Heritage & History Centre

Local tips

  • Check the weather forecast and wear comfortable footwear, as the terrain can be uneven and hilly.
  • Arrive early to allow ample time to explore the center and enjoy the demonstrations.
  • Consider booking a guided tour in advance to fully experience the stories and demonstrations.
  • Relax with tea and scones in the restaurant and browse the shop for local crafts.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Connemara Heritage & History Centre is located on the N59, approximately 7km east of Clifden and 60km west of Galway City. From Clifden, follow the N59 towards Galway. The center will be on your left. From Galway, follow the N59 towards Clifden. The center will be on your right. Free parking is available on site.

  • Public Transport

    From Galway City, take the Citylink or Bus Eireann Route 419 bus to Clifden. From Clifden, you can take a taxi to the center, which is approximately 7km away. Taxi fares from Clifden typically cost around €15-€20. Alternatively, some local bus routes may pass closer to the Heritage Centre, but these may have limited service. Check local timetables for the most up-to-date information. Bus fare Galway to Clifden: €10-€15.

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Discover more about Connemara Heritage & History Centre

The Connemara Heritage & History Centre, nestled in Lettershea near Clifden, County Galway, provides an immersive journey into Connemara's rich past. Established in the late 1980s, the center is built around the restored homestead of Dan O'Hara, a tenant farmer evicted in the 1840s. His story is symbolic of the many Irish who emigrated during the Great Famine. The center showcases traditional ways of life with reconstructed dwellings including a crannóg (pre-historic lake dwelling), ring fort, and clochán. Visitors can explore a working hill farm with animals like sheep, cows, and Connemara ponies. The award-winning center offers guided tours, demonstrations, and workshops that highlight local traditions, crafts, music, and dance. You can also explore exhibits about the Irish Famine, the Land War, and the Gaelic Revival. Enjoy an audiovisual presentation on Connemara's history in multiple languages. The center also has a restaurant, craft shop, and ample free parking. It's located on the N59, approximately 7 km from Clifden and 60 km from Galway City. The center is wheelchair accessible, ensuring all visitors can comfortably explore the grounds.

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