Living in County Longford
Located in Ireland’s Midlands, County Longford offers an inviting mix of affordability, natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a central location that makes it an ideal choice for anyone looking to settle in Ireland. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a close-knit community, Longford has something special to offer. Here are five compelling reasons to consider making Longford your new home.
What Longford has to offer
1. Affordable Cost of Living
County Longford is known for its affordability compared to other regions in Ireland. With a lower cost of housing, goods, and services, Longford allows residents to enjoy a high quality of life without stretching their budgets. This affordability makes Longford an attractive option for families, retirees, and young professionals looking to make the most of their income. From traditional cottages to modern apartments, Longford offers a range of housing options to suit every budget and lifestyle.
2. Beautiful Natural Scenery
Longford is home to some of Ireland’s most tranquil and scenic landscapes. The county’s natural attractions include the River Shannon, the Royal Canal, and lush parklands like Newcastle Wood. The Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre showcases a 2,000-year-old Iron Age trackway, a fascinating blend of nature and history. For those who love the outdoors, Longford provides endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching — making it the perfect place to reconnect with nature.
3. Friendly Communities
Longford’s residents are known for their warm hospitality and sense of community. Moving to a new place can be challenging, but in Longford, you’ll find a welcoming and supportive atmosphere that makes settling in much easier. Longford’s community spirit shines through in local festivals, sports clubs, and cultural events, creating plenty of opportunities to meet new people and build connections. In Longford, you’ll quickly feel like part of the community, with friendly neighbors and lively local gatherings.
4. Rich History and Culture
Longford boasts a deep historical and cultural heritage. The county is home to significant historical sites like the Granard Motte and Bailey, one of Ireland’s best-preserved Norman fortifications, and the impressive St Mel’s Cathedral in Longford Town, which has been beautifully restored. Cultural highlights include traditional Irish music sessions, literary festivals, and historical tours that delve into the county’s fascinating past. Longford’s towns and villages each offer unique experiences that celebrate Irish culture, from music and dance to local storytelling.
5. Central Location for Exploring Ireland
Situated in the heart of Ireland, Longford is ideally located for those who want to explore the country. With easy access to Dublin, Galway, and the scenic Wild Atlantic Way, Longford is a convenient base for travel throughout Ireland. Major roads and the Dublin-to-Sligo train line make getting around easy, so you can experience the best of Ireland’s cities, coastline, and countryside all within a short journey. Whether it’s a weekend in Galway or a quick trip to the capital, Longford’s central location puts the rest of Ireland within reach.
Discover Longford’s Charming Towns and Villages
Each town and village in Longford has its own unique character, contributing to the county’s charm and appeal:
- Newtownforbes: A picturesque village known for its historical estates, particularly Clonguish House, and its warm community spirit.
- Longford Town: The bustling county capital, featuring St Mel’s Cathedral, local shopping, and a lively arts scene.
- Ballinalee: Known as the birthplace of General Sean Mac Eoin, this village carries a rich legacy from Ireland’s struggle for independence.
- Cloondra: Located at the end of the Royal Canal, this village offers scenic views and easy access to waterway activities.
- Edgeworthstown: Named after the famous Edgeworth family, particularly Maria Edgeworth, this town is a literary treasure.
- Lanesborough: Positioned on the northern edge of Lough Ree, Lanesborough is perfect for fishing and offers beautiful lakeside views.
- Ballymahon: Nestled near the River Inny, Ballymahon is an angler’s paradise surrounded by forests and trails.
- Granard: Home to the historical Granard Motte and Bailey, with panoramic views that capture Longford’s natural beauty.
From Abbeylara to Drumlish, Longford’s towns and villages offer warm welcomes, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural histories, each with its own story to tell.
