Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum
Join Charlie and Bridie Finneran as they show you around their cornucopia of heritage gems in this charming little museum outside Athlone.
A lifelong love of collecting and restoring everyday objects led Charlie – who grew up on the family farm here – to open a folk museum dedicated to telling the story of rural Irish life through an eclectic array of artefacts. On a personalised tour led by the man himself, you’ll step back in time to examine items from shops, school rooms and homes of old, some of which date back 250 years! From gramophones and griddles to butter churns and vintage tractors, there’s bric-a-brac to behold in every nook and cranny of this cosy spot.
But that’s not all. Outside the museum is a garden and seating area that's ideal for a picnic on a fine day. Or you can just take in the lovely views of the surrounding countryside in this tranquil part of County Roscommon. It only takes around an hour to peruse the entire collection, so it makes for a perfect addition to a day out in the area. Be warned though, whether it’s the schoolroom, chemist, garage, grocery shop or bar, one of the museum’s sections is bound to draw you in for a closer look. So take your time, soak up the history and you’ll leave Derryglad with a special sense of what life was like in these parts many moons ago.
Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum, County Roscommon
Need to know
Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum is only open from May to October each year.
Admission tickets can be booked in advance on the museum’s site.
Parking is available on-site and the museum is fully wheelchair accessible.