Irish Workhouse Centre: A Window into Ireland's Past
Explore Ireland's poignant history at the Irish Workhouse Centre in Portumna, County Galway.
The Irish Workhouse Centre in Portumna offers a poignant look into a difficult period of Irish history. This preserved workhouse, known as 'Teach na mBocht' (the Poorhouse), operated from the 1840s to the 1920s, providing a last resort for the destitute. Guided tours offer insight into the lives of those who lived within its walls.
A brief summary to Irish Workhouse Centre
- St Brigid's Road, Galway, Portumna, H53 EK74, IE
- +353909759200
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season (March to October), to ensure availability.
- The guided tour takes approximately 75 minutes, so plan accordingly.
- Photography is permitted for personal use, but commercial use requires permission.
Getting There
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Walking
The Irish Workhouse Centre is located on St Brigid's Road in Portumna [from extracted data]. From the center of Portumna, including the bus stop and Portumna Castle, it's approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Head east on Main Street (N65), then turn left onto St Brigid's Road. The Centre will be on your left. There are no specific access fees for walking.
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Public Transport
Local Link Bus 547 connects Ballinasloe to Portumna. Bus 844 runs between Birr, Portumna and Galway. From the Portumna bus stop, it is a short walk to the Irish Workhouse Centre. Follow the 'Walking' directions above. A single fare on Local Link services typically costs around €4.00 [from search results].
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Portumna, though their presence may be limited [from search results]. A taxi from the center of town to the Irish Workhouse Centre would be a short trip, costing approximately €8-€12. It is advisable to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
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Driving
The Irish Workhouse Centre is located on St Brigid's Road, just off the N65 in Portumna. From the N65, turn onto St Brigid's Road. The Centre will be clearly signposted. Parking is available on-site. There are no tolls on the direct route to the Centre.
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