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Cavan County Museum: A Journey Through Cavan's Past

Explore 6,000 years of history at Cavan County Museum in Ballyjamesduff, from ancient artifacts to the WWI Trench Experience. A cultural gem in County Cavan.

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Cavan County Museum, located in a former 19th-century convent in Ballyjamesduff, immerses visitors in the rich history and heritage of County Cavan, Ireland. With exhibits spanning from the Stone Age to the 20th century, the museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts and tells the story of Cavan's evolution through the millennia.

A brief summary to Cavan County Museum

Local tips

  • Allow at least 2-4 hours to fully explore the museum's extensive collection and exhibits.
  • Check the museum's website or call ahead to confirm opening hours and event schedules, especially during the off-season.
  • The museum has its own car park, making it convenient to visit by car.
  • The Museum Tea Room is located on the ground floor and is open during museum hours.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Cavan town, take the Local Link Cavan Monaghan bus 186 towards Ballyjamesduff. The bus departs from Cavan Bus Station every four hours and the journey takes approximately 27 minutes. From the Ballyjamesduff bus stop, it is a 13 minute walk to the museum. A single adult bus fare is approximately €4-€6.

  • Car

    Cavan County Museum is located on the Virginia Road (A82 YP70), in Kilmore, just outside Ballyjamesduff. From Cavan town, follow the N3 and N87 to Ballyjamesduff. The museum is a short drive from the town center. The museum offers free parking. Note that pay and display parking is in operation in Cavan Town between 8am and 7pm from Monday to Saturday, costing €0.60 per hour for on-street parking.

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Discover more about Cavan County Museum

Cavan County Museum, nestled in the serene town of Ballyjamesduff, offers a captivating exploration of County Cavan's history, culture, and heritage. Housed in a beautifully preserved 19th-century former convent of the Poor Clare Sisters, the museum provides a unique setting for its extensive collection. Founded in 1996, the museum's mission is to preserve and showcase the material heritage of County Cavan for the benefit of the public. The museum's exhibits span over 6,000 years of Cavan's history, from the Stone Age to the 20th century. Visitors can marvel at artifacts from various periods, including the Killycluggin Stone, a 2,500-year-old stone associated with Celtic spirituality, and a selection of Sheela-na-Gigs. Other notable exhibits include a medieval dug-out boat, the three-faced Corleck Head, and displays on the Great Famine, Percy French, and the Farnham family. The Folklife Gallery offers a glimpse into life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. One of the museum's most striking features is the World War I Trench Experience, the largest outdoor replica trench in Ireland and the UK. Built to the specifications of the Royal Irish Fusiliers, the trench provides a powerful and immersive glimpse into the realities of warfare during the Great War. Please note that the World War I Trench Experience is temporarily closed for maintenance as of October 1, 2024. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and events, showcasing local and national artists. With its diverse collection, engaging exhibits, and commitment to preserving Cavan's heritage, the Cavan County Museum offers an enriching and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

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