Lismore
The town of Lismore is located 35 minutes drive from our bed & breakfast accommodation. Built on the banks of the Blackwater, the town has been a hub of Irish life since medieval times when St. Carthage founded a monastery here in 636. It later became a celebrated international school. Henry II chose his site for a castle here in 1171 and the growth of Anglo-Norman influence during the late 12th century marked the decline of the monastery. Lismore Castle is the private home of the Dukes of Devonshire, but Lismore Castle Gardens are open to the public. The picturesque town of Lismore was substantially restructured during the 19th century and is now designated a Heritage Town.
Lismore Heritage Centre occupies the old Courthouse. Other points of interest include St. Carthage Cathedral, and St. Carthage Parish Church. Lismore Golf Club, a scenic 9-hole course, lies a few km from the town. There are many craftspeople in the area including Eleanor Howard (pottery); Corina Duyn (wood products); Glencairn Pottery and Tourtane House (plasterwork).
The web site for Lismore Mochuda contains up to date details of the artists, restaurants and interesting shops that are to be found in this most picturesque town.