"Something for Everyone" at Experience Ballinasloe from 24th to 26th May

Building on the triumph of last year, the Ballinasloe Tourism Group proudly announces the return of its extraordinary Tourism Weekend, promising "Something for Everyone" at Experience Ballinasloe. This event aims to unveil some of the hidden treasures of Irelands Hidden Heartlands while showcasing Ballinasloe's immense potential as a premier tourism hotspot.

Seven fun-filled planned events will unfold over the weekend, ensuring there's an experience tailored to every taste. From invigorating guided Heritage Walks through  Clancarty History with local historians and archaeologists, to captivating Historic Tours delving into the Aughrim Battlefields, the itinerary promises to captivate diverse interests. Participants can embark on Scenic Boat Cruises, drifting along the breath-taking landscapes of the meandering River Suck, or immerse themselves in the traditional sounds of Rambling House Music Sessions. Mystery Trails offer an intriguing adventure, sending participants on a 3KM route through Ballinasloe Town, unravelling clues along the way. 

​Exclusive tours await those eager to discover the story of Ahascragh Distillery, where they can savour the award-winning Whiskeys & Gins. For thrill-seekers, the immensely popular Kayaking on the River Suck promises an exhilarating experience. Beyond these organised events, Ballinasloe's proximity to  the ancient ruins of Clontuskert Abbey and Kilconnell Abbey to the historic significance of Meelick Church and St. Brendan's Cathedral, provide both visitors and locals a wealth of heritage waiting to be explored. Additionally, nearby landmarks like Clonfert and the renowned Clonmacnoise offer a unique opportunity for further discovery and immersion in Ireland's rich history and culture. Live music is also available throughout the weekend in local pubs and hotels.

Whether local or visitor, this Tourism Weekend invites all to discover the richness of Ballinasloe and its surrounding area.

7 Organised Events for Locals and Visitors To Experience

Rambling House Session in Gibbons Pillar House Bar on Friday 24th May @ 9:30pm – Join in an evening of Music, Song, Dance & Storytelling. Cost: FREE - NO PURCHASE NECESSARY

A Guided  Walk through Clancarty History with local historians, archaeologists, and writers. Hear about the estate, the family, the buildings, the showgirl and the ghost.  Saturday 25th May @ 3:15 pm – Start point, St. John's Church (Church Hill) ,H53 XP90.  End point Brewery Lane at 6:00 pm for refreshments. Full Walk 5KM, shorter route available for reduced mobility by joining at Gaelscoil ,H53 W183 at 4:00 pm.  NOTE: The terrain is a mix of road and grassy trails so please be mindful of footwear.  Cost: €10.00 per Adult - Children & Buggies Free  TICKETS AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE HERE

Boat Cruises from Ballinasloe to Shannonbridge and/or Shannonbridge to Ballinasloe on Sunday May 26th  - Two Slots available to choose from. 

​DETAILS: Cruise along the majestic River Suck to Ballinasloe onboard the luxurious, all-weather River Queen. Snap photos and enjoy unsurpassed views of this spectacular waterway with full bar facilities. Complimentary glass of Proscecco and Light Bites compliments of the Moycarn Lodge & Marina Hotel & Lukers of Shannonbridge. 

Option 1: Cruise from Shannonbridge to Moycarn Marina: Bus Pick Up at Moycarn Hotel at 12 noon with Drop off at River queen in Shannon bridge.  Cruise from Shannonbridge to Moycarn ( approx. 2 hours) with drop off at Moycarn for complimentary light bites, arrival at approx. 2:30 pm. 

Option 2: Cruise from Ballinasloe to Shannonbridge: Pick up at Ballinasloe Marina @ 3.30 pm.  Cruise to Shannon bridge (approx. 2 hours) and disembark at Lukers for complimentary Light Bites. Bus Pick up at 7.30 pm to return to Ballinasloe Marina 

 Cost €25.00 - TICKETS AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE HERE

A Guided Tour of the Battle Fields of Aughrim on Sunday on 26th May @ 11:00 am. 

​Details: Meet Michael and Abbie at the Battle of Aughrim Visitor Centre (H53 KH51) on Sunday 26th May at 11:00am for a journey through the fields surrounding Aughrim village. These seemingly ordinary-looking fields were the site of the last pitched battle fought in Ireland- and the bloodiest, with approximately 7,000 men losing their lives in the most significant battle of the Williamite War in Ireland. You'll learn all about the events leading up the battle, the key characters involved, and its impact on Ireland's history. You'll also have the opportunity to handle replica weapons, uniforms, and props of the era. The tour will take approximately 2.5hrs on foot over sometimes rough terrain, taking in Kilcommadan Hill, St. Ruth's Bush and Fort, and the ruins of Aughrim Castle - all key locations on that fateful July day in 1691. Suitable clothing and footwear are advised. Cost: €20.00 TICKETS AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE HERE

Kayaking on the River Suck Sunday 26th @12:00 Noon & 2:00pm. Details: Kayak along the river Suck with an experienced guide who will take you along the banks of the River Suck to give you a unique view of the countryside. Small Groups, No kayaking experience required. We will supply kayaks, buoyancy aids, helmets and paddles. Meet at Moycarn Marina 15 minutes before start time. Wear old runners, tracksuit bottom or shorts, a t shirt and a wind breaker, or under-armour type top. If you have your own wetsuit, feel free to wear it but not a necessity. Over 12's - Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Cost €25.00  - TICKETS AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE HERE

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A Family Fun Mission Impossible Mystery Trail – Details: How well do you know Ballinasloe?. - A 3KM mystery trail of Ballinasloe Town will have you scratching your head. A special discount is available for Saturday & Sunday May 25th & 26th. Download the Ballinasloe map on www.mystertrails.ie and use special discount code Ballinasloe Tourism Weekend. - Then let the fun begin, follow the clues and upload your answers for a chance to win a prize. Cost €10.00.  

Guided Tours of Ahascragh Distillery Saturday & Sunday May 25th & 26th 

• Standard Tour departures at 12:00 Noon and 2:00 PM
• Premium Tour departs at 3:00 pm
• Prices start from €20.00

TICKETS AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE AT www.ahascraghdistillery.com  [email protected] or 090 9688935 

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This Group is set up under the umbrella of Ballinasloe Area Community Development Clg.

​All general enquiries can be made to Lyn or Martina at [email protected] or 09096 46516.

Local Accommodation Details: Gullanes hotel  Shearwater Hotel  Moycarn Lodge & Marina  Gibbons B&B   
airbnb.com/h/thefeathers-shepherdshut