The 10 best things to do in Cavan
Whether you’re into exploring archaeological wonders, enjoying delicious food from top Irish chefs or just want to have a short break with the kids – come see for yourself what makes County Cavan so very special. Astonishing scenery, local history and peaceful lakelands await.
Discover the 10 best things to do in Cavan.
When planning your trip, don’t miss the 10 best things to do in Cavan to enhance your experience.
Make sure to check out the 10 best things to do in Cavan when you arrive.
From outdoor adventures to culinary delights, you’ll find the 10 best things to do in Cavan, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors.
Explore all the 10 best things to do in Cavan for an unforgettable adventure.
The first of the 10 best things to do in Cavan is visiting Cavan Burren Park.
- 1. Cavan Burren Park
- 2.MacNean House and Restaurant
- 3. Bear Essentials
- 4. Cavan Adventure Centre
- 5. Lough Oughter and Clough Oughter Castle
- 6. Killykeen Forest Park
- 7. Cavan Cathedral
- 8. Cavan County Museum and World War I Trench Experience
- 9. Bailieborough Castle Lake Loop
- 10.Dún Na Rí Forest Park
Discover the 10 best things to do in Cavan for an unforgettable experience
View places on map1Cavan Burren Park
On the slopes of the Cuilcagh Mountain outside the village of Blacklion in Cavan Burren Park, a limestone plateau rich with archaeological features. Spend the entire day here exploring this prehistoric landscape dotted with megalithic tombs, glacial erratics (boulders) and dolmens. Trek to see stunning views over Lough MacNean, explore the Visitor Centre and follow one of the five walking trails as you unravel layers of archaeology in tranquil surroundings.
Open this item in the map2MacNean House and Restaurant
Next on our list of the 10 best things to do in Cavan is a visit to the county museum.
In nearby Blacklion village, try an unforgettable meal at the famous MacNean House led by top chef Neven Maguire. Indulge in mouthwatering food at the award-winning restaurant or for a more hands-on experience, visitors can book into a cookery class and learn about everything from mastering meat to cooking for friends. Book a visit here well in advance as this is an incredibly popular place with food lovers and budding chefs alike.
MacNean House & Restaurant
Blacklion, Co. CavanOpen this item in the map3Bear Essentials
To make the most of your trip, start with the 10 best things to do in Cavan right away!
You’ll find more than the ‘bear’ necessities at Bear Essentials. It’s your one-stop-shop to teddy bear land, just beside Brackley Lake, near Bawnboy village. Here, they design and handcraft their own unique bears. Take part in a workshop and learn about the history of the much-loved cuddly toy or make your very own teddy bear – something to treasure from your trip to Cavan.
Bear Essentials
These are the top 10 best things to do in Cavan, perfect for families and adventurers alike.
Experience the culinary excellence as part of the 10 best things to do in Cavan.
Bawnboy, Co. Cavan Open this item in the map
A little further north in Butlersbridge, you’ll find Cavan Adventure Centre in the county’s scenic lakelands. Based on the River Erne, they provide kayaks, canoes, boats and bikes for hire. Suitable for all levels of fitness and abilities, grab the opportunity to see Cavan’s outdoors by water or by land.
Cavan Adventure Centre
Butlersbridge, Co. Cavan Open this item in the map
5Lough Oughter and Clough Oughter Castle
The ruined fortress of Clough Oughter Castle is on a small island in Lough Oughter just east of the quaint village of Killeshandra. Built around the time of the last Kings of Ireland, the castle sits on a Crannóg and is nicknamed locally ‘The Silent Stone Watchman’. Anglers flock to the tranquil lake, which is renowned for coarse fishing. Hire a canoe or kayak from Cavan Adventure Centre or go on a guided boat tour around the lake and explore the historic castle.
Mark your calendars for the 10 best things to do in Cavan during your stay.
Open this item in the map6Killykeen Forest Park
A stroll around picturesque Killykeen Forest Park is perfect for those who love the outdoors. Surround yourself in a lush woodland of ash, oak, beech and spruce trees as you explore the 240 hectares of scenic landscape. The forest park is wrapped around Lough Oughter and with its network of forest walks it’s popular with families and bird watchers. Meander along the 3km family cycling trail, take a refreshing dip at the swimming area and share a picnic in the sunshine.
Killykeen Forest Park – Nature Trail
Killykeen Forest Park – Nature Trail
Cavan Town, Co. Cavan Open this item in the map
In Cavan Town, the Roman Catholic Cavan Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Patrick and Saint Felim, is one of the most impressive in Ireland. It has a 68m spire and flanking domes which were completed in 1942, and its interior is shaped like a basilica with extensive use of both marble and ecclesiastical art.
The Cathedral of Saint Patrick and Saint Felim
The Cathedral of Saint Patrick and Saint Felim
Cavan Town, Co. CavanOpen this item in the map
8Cavan County Museum and World War I Trench Experience
Visit several exciting attractions at the Cavan County Museum in Ballyjamesduff – home of the largest outdoor replica trench in Ireland. Educating visitors on life in the trenches during World War I, it was built to exact specifications. You’ll learn about life in a 1916 Dublin streetscape, wander along the 350m long trench to hear and see what soldiers experienced as their history comes to life.
The museum itself is in a Georgian building and showcases two of the most famous pieces of Celtic and Pagan art – the Killycluggan Stone and Ralaghan figure. If you have time, explore the children’s playground and peace garden or take a break in the tea rooms and crafts shop.
Cavan County Museum
Immerse yourself in the history with these 10 best things to do in Cavan.
For the adventure seekers, the 10 best things to do in Cavan offer exciting options.
Your journey won’t be complete without experiencing the 10 best things to do in Cavan.
Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan Open this item in the map
9Bailieborough Castle Lake Loop
As you explore the east of County Cavan, the beautiful Castle Lake Loop traverses the Bailieborough demesne of the former castle which was demolished in the 1940s. Visitors will enjoy views of the Castle Lake for the duration of their looped walk, passing by historical sites like a memorial to those who died on Rebel Hill in 1798. There are a variety of trails from 3.5km to 6.5km long, so you will find something there to suit all levels.
Bailieborough Castle Lake Loop (PJ’s Way)
Bailieborough Castle Lake Loop (PJ’s Way)
Don’t forget to include these 10 best things to do in Cavan in your itinerary!
Bailieborough, Co. Cavan Open this item in the map
The beautiful 565-acre Dún Na Rí Forest Park is on the banks of the River Cabra near the town of Kingscourt and features a dramatic gorge that’s part of the Cabra Estate. Steeped in history and legend, it’s said that here at Dún Na Rí Forest Park the mighty Cú Chulainn single-handedly defended Ulster against the armies of Queen Maeve.
Embrace nature’s beauty with the 10 best things to do in Cavan at Dún Na Rí Forest Park.
For a unique experience, don’t forget the 10 best things to do in Cavan.
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It’s an ideal spot for walkers with four trails including one multi-access trail and you’ll find visual delights like the Ice House, Toba na Splinne Holy Well and the ruins of Fleming’s Castle.
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With so much to choose from year-round in County Cavan, you’re spoiled for choice, so head over to our Cavan destination page and plan your visit to the Lake County.
