Glengowla Mines

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 photo gallery.

We had a fantastic visit today. Our tour guide was outstanding – extremely knowledgeable with a great sense of humor. It was fascinating to learn about the history of the mines and the lives of the people who worked there. I would 100% recommend this experience.

We came with a tour to meet Keith and Pip and learn about his farm. The turf bog was very interesting. Really impressive was the dog sheep dog Pip and her energy. She herded and brought down the sheep with ease.

We had a great time at this working farm! We got to see a sheep dog demonstration and learn about the various restrictions and incentives for farming in Ireland. There is also a mine tour available and gift shop. We did not have time to do the mine with our tour group.

Amazing place and.the owner Keith and his dog Pip are so sweet and kind. The gift shop is perfect. We came from Canada to visit this lovely place. Thank you very much for your hospitality.

An enchanting place full of interesting things to discover: a visit to the mines and the chance to pan for gold for fun, the fascinating history of turf cutting, discovering the unique plants of the marsh, and all there is to know about sheep herding, lambs and the skilful sheepdogs. The owners will warmly guide you through the activities. With shop and coffee we didn't want to leave!

Great experience and super friendly people! They had a great tour of a mine and fun demonstration with the sheep. It was our favorite thing we did that day!

Wonderful sheepherding experience and life of a farmer! We loved seeing Pip do her job and learn what it takes to be a sheep farmer in Ireland. I'd love coming again :)

This was a fantastic way to send some time near Connemara. The owner Kieth is the real deal. A farmer by heart, he and his border collie, Floss, put on a great show. The Galena/lead mine was also very interesting and educational. Very authentic experience.

The proprietors are warm and inviting. They treated us as family and spent plenty of time explaining their trade. The mine tour was excellent and you are given a very good class on local geology and mining history. We were also given good driving directions and options of further points of interest in the area. Excellent !