Glengowla Mines — Local services in County Galway

TLDR: The Mines are great. Good if you’re okay with dark, cold, enclosed spaces. Otherwise, stick to the walking parts to explore above ground. All very informational and interesting. The star attraction is the Sheep Herding; ABSOLUTELY DO THIS. An amazing and unique experience elevated by the farm owner, Keith. Absolutely wonderful person. We would love to return.

We visited the Glengowla Mines and Family Farm Experience in August of 2024. It was one of our absolute favorite experiences of our 10-day adventure across Ireland and Northern Ireland. Tucked away just a short 30-km drive away from the city of Galway, and just a stone’s throw from the quiet small town of Oughterad, this family farm is home to an amazing set of experiences.

First, the mines experience was something we booked on a whim while visiting Galway and we really did it because we were interested in the Sheep Herding experience. If you are okay with dark, enclosed spaces and, healthy enough to climb down and back up 50 (wet) steps do yourself a favor and opt for this experience. The young man who led our tour did a wonderful job sharing the history of the mine, the property, and answering every question we could throw at him about Irish mining in the mid to late 1800s. The tour takes small groups down into the mine and lets you see what it was like to work in dark and wet conditions with limited tools and resources. Aside from the mine, there are many exhibits to see that talk about different tools and platforms used in the days of the mine. This was nice to see as there were families with people who could not go down, so they were able to walk through the small museum cottage and other exhibits around the property, to learn about the mine and the miners’ experiences.

Next, absolutely make sure to book the Sheep Herding experience. The local farm owner, Keith, who runs the farm was extremely kind, thoughtful, and entertaining. He performed the most educational and entertaining experience on Irish Sheep Farming culture and Working Farm Dog Training we had found Ireland. Keith introduced us to one of his young border collies, Pip. Listen… Pip. Is. Amazing. Keith is fantastic. But watching Pip work and just the sheer joy on her face as she disappears off on a mountain and returns with a herd of sheep; what an absolute delight. Keith and Pip demonstrated exactly how they move the sheep and even offered to allow many of us to point and choose where to put the sheep, and Keith would send Pip off to move the herd. Keith explained the details of how the working dogs are trained, their relationship with the sheep, their relationship with their masters, and so much more.

We had absolutely wonderful times visiting the Glengowla Mines and Family Farm. Would recommend it for all ages and any size group. We were three adults, and all agreed it was one of the best experiences...

I've been to many places in Ireland, and this place is definitely on my must-see list!

Mining at Glengowla began in 1851, when a local farmer discovered galoo (lead ore) on the surface of the soil. The first shaft, named after Captain Paul, reached a depth of 40 meters and a width of 60 meters. The mines operated until 1865, producing lead and silver, as well as other minerals such as quartz, fluorite, dolomite, and marble. This was the time of the Great Famine in Ireland (1845–1847), and the mines were likely created to provide employment for local residents. In 1999, the mines were saved from flooding by the Geoghan family, who restored them and opened them to the public.

• Underground Mine Tour: Approximately 45 minutes long, guided. You'll descend into marble caverns, see remains of equipment (ladders, pipes, mine carts), and rare fluorite and quartz crystals. Tours run every 20 minutes, with an emphasis on atmosphere: dripping water, "miners' breath," and even a moment of complete darkness. The surface museum features mineral exhibits and artifacts. • Dog Herding Demonstration: Watch Irish sheepdogs (like Bob) herd sheep under the direction of farmer Keith Gioghan. This is a picturesque show about farm life in Connemara. • Turf Cutting Demonstration: The traditional Irish process of collecting fuel from bogs is an authentic experience. • Farm Walk: A 1-kilometer trail with the opportunity to pet Connemara ponies and lambs and learn about local flowers and animals. • Gold panning: Try your luck in the on-site river. • Seismology: The mines are equipped with a seismograph that records earthquakes in real time—part of a national monitoring network. • Additional attractions: Blacksmith's workshop, powder house, mineral and gift shop. Movies have also been filmed here, and there's a...

Absolutely captivating! Glengowla Mines is a hidden gem in Connemara, offering a truly unique and memorable experience for the whole family. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warmth and genuine hospitality. The tour itself was fascinating, delving into the rich history and geology of the mines. Our tour guide, Debby, was simply outstanding. Her knowledge was extensive, and she delivered it with such passion and enthusiasm that we were all completely engaged. She answered every question with patience and clarity, making the underground world come alive. We also had the pleasure of meeting Keith, the owner, who was a true gentleman. His dedication to preserving this piece of Irish heritage is evident in every aspect of the site. His personal touch and genuine interest in sharing the story of Glengowla made our visit even more special. The sheepdog herding demonstration was a delightful bonus, showcasing the incredible skill and intelligence of these working dogs. It was a joy to watch them in action against the stunning backdrop of the Connemara landscape. The souvenir shop is well-stocked with a variety of interesting items, but the real highlight was the Connemara honey. It was absolutely delicious, a perfect taste of the local flora. I highly recommend picking up a jar! Glengowla Mines is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Connemara. It's an educational, entertaining, and heartwarming experience that will leave you with lasting memories. The combination of the fascinating mines, the wonderful tour guides, the charming owner, and the beautiful setting makes it a truly exceptional attraction. We cannot recommend it highly enough!

Would give 6 stars if possible ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank...