Is Longford good for fishing?

Yes, Longford is excellent for freshwater fishing, especially on Lough Ree (part of the River Shannon) for pike, perch, and bream. A state fishing license is required.

What is the main town in County Longford?

Longford Town is the county town and administrative capital, located on the River Camlin.

How far is Longford from Dublin?

Longford Town is approximately 130km (80 miles) northwest of Dublin, about a 1.5-hour drive or 1 hour 40 minutes by train.

Are there any castles to visit in Longford?

Yes, see the ruins of Moydow Castle near Longford Town, and Carrigglas Manor (private but visible). Nearby counties have more extensive castle sites.

Can I cruise the River Shannon from Longford?

Absolutely. Lough Ree is a major part of the Shannon navigation system, with marinas and hire bases available for cruiser holidays.

Varies by nationality. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens don't need a visa. Others may need a visa; check with Irish immigration.

What currency is used?

Euro (€). Credit cards widely accepted, but carry cash for small shops and pubs.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, English is the primary language. Irish (Gaeilge) is also spoken by a minority.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe to drink throughout Ireland.

What is the tipping etiquette?

Tipping is not required but appreciated. 10% in restaurants, round up taxi fares, and leave small change for pub staff.

Are there any vaccination requirements?

No mandatory vaccinations for Ireland. Standard travel vaccinations (Tetanus, Hepatitis A) are recommended.

What is the best way to get around without a car?

Buses and trains connect major towns, but rural areas are hard to reach. Cycling or taxis are options.

Is Longford suitable for families?

Yes, with outdoor activities like canal walks, fishing, and historic sites. Family-friendly pubs and B&Bs are common.

Layered clothing, waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella. Even in summer, rain is possible.

Are there any local festivals?

Yes, the Longford Festival (August) and the Edgeworth Literary Festival (September) are highlights.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, roaming works for EU visitors. Others should check with their provider or buy a local SIM.

What is the emergency number?

Dial 112 or 999 for police, ambulance, fire, or coast guard.

Longford

CountyIreland, Europe

Longford is a STATE in Ireland, Europe.

Nestled in the heart of Ireland's Hidden Heartlands, County Longford offers travelers an authentic Irish experience away from the bustling tourist trails. This charming inland county is defined by its serene lakelands, particularly Lough Ree along the River Shannon, which provides excellent fishing, boating, and tranquil waterside walks. History enthusiasts will be captivated by the impressive ruins of 13th-century Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre, home to Europe's oldest surviving road, and the atmospheric remains of Ardagh Church and Moydow Castle. Longford Town, the county capital, boasts the striking St. Mel's Cathedral with its magnificent post-restoration interior. The county's literary heritage shines through its connection to novelist Maria Edgeworth at Edgeworthstown. With friendly local pubs offering traditional music sessions, unspoiled countryside perfect for cycling along the Royal Canal Greenway, and welcoming family-run accommodations, Longford provides a peaceful gateway to Ireland's rich cultural and natural landscapes. Don't miss the chance to explore the charming villages like Newtownforbes and Ballymahon, where you'll discover warm hospitality and a slower pace of life that embodies rural Ireland at its best.

Best time to visit Longford

May to September offers the warmest and driest weather (average 15-20°C/59-68°F), ideal for outdoor activities on the lakes and canal. July and August are peak tourist months with longer daylight hours. Late spring (May-June) sees beautiful greenery and fewer crowds. September often has mild weather and is excellent for walking festivals. The Longford Summer Festival (July) features entertainment and community events. Winter can be cold and wet but offers a cozy pub atmosphere.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 7-13°C, rain increasing

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Autumn colors, quieter

Know before you go

Getting there

DUB

Dublin Airport

International

120 km away

SNN

Shannon Airport

International

140 km away

NOC

Ireland West Airport Knock

International

80 km away

Getting around

"A car is highly recommended to explore Longford's rural attractions and lakelands fully. Major rental companies are available at Dublin and Knock airports. Local Link provides rural bus services connecting towns and villages. Bus Éireann operates intercity routes to Dublin, Galway, and Sligo. Taxis are available in Longford Town (can be booked by phone). Cycling is popular on the Royal Canal Greenway and quiet country roads—bike hire is available locally. Train services (Irish Rail) connect Longford Town to Dublin and Sligo. Popular navigation apps like Google Maps work well. Walking is the best way to explore towns and villages."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in most hotels, cafes, and pubs in town

Local SIM

Local SIM available at shops from €10

Calling code

+353

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Scams are rare; be cautious with unofficial taxis.

Night safety

7/10

Scams are rare; be cautious with unofficial taxis.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Longford is generally very safe with low crime rates, especially violent crime. Normal precautions for personal belongings in public areas are advised. Rural roads can be narrow and winding—drive cautiously, especially at night. Some isolated areas may have limited mobile reception. There are no specific tourist-targeted scams, but be wary of unsolicited offers. The town centers and villages are safe to walk around day and night. Weather can change quickly—prepare for rain even in summer. When enjoying waterways like Lough Ree, follow water safety guidelines."

Police

999 or 112

Ambulance

999 or 112

Fire

999 or 112

Tourist Police

Coast Guard

112

Entry and health

Health information

"Ireland has a high standard of healthcare. The Midlands Regional Hospital in Mullingar (approx. 40km from Longford Town) serves the region, while Longford has local medical centers and pharmacies. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) provides access to necessary public healthcare for EU/UK visitors. Non-EU travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine ones. Tick-borne encephalitis is not a concern, but use insect repellent in wooded/grassy areas. Tap water is safe to drink. Emergency dental services are available in Longford Town."

Culture

Local customs

"Irish hospitality is warm and genuine. Greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'how are you?' Handshakes are common for introductions. Pubs are social hubs—it's customary to buy rounds of drinks in a group. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory: 10-15% in restaurants if service charge isn't included, round up taxi fares, and tip hotel porters €1-2 per bag. Dress is casual but neat; pack waterproof clothing regardless of season. Sunday is still a quiet day with limited shopping hours. Respect local heritage sites—do not climb on ancient ruins. When driving, acknowledge courtesy from other drivers with a wave."

EnglishIrish (Gaelic)

Costs and practicals

Currency

Euro (EUR) · €

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$12-18 | a cheap local meal costs around $12-18

Hotels

$50-100 | budget hotels range $50-100/night

Local transport

$2 | local bus ride ~$2

Cost notes

Longford is more affordable than Dublin. B&Bs offer great value.

Timezone

Europe/Dublin +00:00 (GMT) / +01:00 (IST)

More facts

Population

46,634

Area

1,091 km²

Government

County Council (Local Authority)

ISO code

Type

County

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: An Longfort, Longford, Cill Maintain, Cill Maintainn, Cill Maintáinn, Cill Manntein, Cill Manntéin, Cill Mantan, Cill Mhanntain, Cill Mhantain, Cill Mhantáin, Wicklow

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