Irish Workhouse Centre: A Window into Ireland's Past
Explore the poignant history of Ireland's workhouse system at the Irish Workhouse Centre in Portumna, County Galway.
The Irish Workhouse Centre in Portumna offers a poignant look into a difficult chapter of Irish history. Located in a preserved 19th-century workhouse, the center tells the story of the workhouse system, which provided a last resort for the destitute poor from the 1840s to the 1920s. Visitors can explore the original buildings and learn about the harsh realities of life within these institutions.
A brief summary to Irish Workhouse Centre
- St Brigid's Road, Galway, Portumna, H53 EK74, IE
- +353909759200
- Visit website
Local tips
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for a comprehensive tour and to fully absorb the history.
- Check the opening hours and tour times in advance, especially outside of peak season.
- The guided tour is obligatory and provides essential context.
- Consider combining your visit with a trip to nearby Portumna Castle and Forest Park.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Galway, take the Citylink bus to Ballinasloe, then transfer to the Local Link bus to Portumna. Alternatively, Kearns Transport operates a direct bus from Galway to Portumna once daily on select days, taking approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, with fares ranging from €7 to €10. From Dublin, Kearns Transport operates a bus to Portumna once a week, with a journey time of about 2 hours and 50 minutes and costs between €10-€14. Once in Portumna, the Irish Workhouse Centre is a short walk from the bus stop. Bus lines 322, 547 and 844 stop near Portumna.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Portumna and can provide direct transport to the Irish Workhouse Centre. A taxi from Galway to Portumna would cost approximately €100-€130 and take about 53 minutes. From Ballinasloe, a taxi to Portumna would cost approximately €45-€60 and take about 28 minutes. Within Portumna, expect to pay a small fare for a short trip to the Centre. Always confirm the fare with the driver beforehand.
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Walking
The Irish Workhouse Centre is located on St. Brigid's Road in Portumna. From the center of Portumna, it is easily accessible by foot, approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Follow the main road (R355) east, and the center will be on your left, well signposted.
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