Packed programme of events for Heritage Week in Roscrea
Roscrea Heritage Society has organised a number of great events to coincide with National Heritage Week, which began last Saturday and runs until this Sunday, August 26th.
This is a nine-day celebration of Ireland’s heritage, where groups and individuals come together to showcase their natural, built and cultural heritage. Our events are all-inclusive and free of charge. There really is something to suit everyone.
Among the events that have taken place in Roscrea so far was 'Rambling House in the Courthouse' on Tuesday.
Coming up on Thursday, August 23rd, is a tour of Fancroft Mill and Gardens (10.30am – 1.30pm). You are invited to explore Marcus and Irene Sweeney’s hidden gem, located just 4km outside Roscrea. Your visit will include a presentation of the site, guided tour of the mill complex and guided exploration of the extensive gardens.
Light refreshments will be served on the day. Transport will be provided, leaving Castle St, Roscrea, at 10.15am sharp and returning to Roscrea at 2pm. Places on this tour are limited and must be booked in advance through Roscrea Heritage Society only.
A 'Know Your Heritage' walking tour will take place on Friday August 24th from 3pm to 4.30pm. Join Dick Conroy for an informative tour of Roscrea, taking in some of our stunning heritage sites as you wander around Ireland’s third-oldest town. Meet at Roscrea Castle courtyard at 2.45pm. Listen carefully on the walk and answer a short fun quiz to be in with a chance of winning an OPW Family Heritage Card. This card allows two adults and up to five children admission into all OPW heritage sites in Ireland, valid for one year from first use.
The OPW have offered a free guided tour of Roscrea Castle complex to all those who would like one after the walk. We will also have goody bags for children.
A presentation at St Cronan’s Abbey, Sean Ross, will take place on Saturday, August 25th at (2.30pm). This will include a brief history of the Abbey, and Barry Noyce will give an update of the conservation work to date. The coronation of the Chieftain of the O’Meagher Clan will also take place!
Dancing at the Crossroads will take place on Sunday August 26th (3pm – 6pm) at Glebe Park, Roscrea. Dance your way back to a place in our town where music, song, laughter and dancing partners were the order of the day! Séamus Moloughney, Paddy Curran and friends' rendition of songs will allow you to relive those memories at our Dancing at the Crossroads.
There will be plenty to keep the children happy too, such as face-painting, colouring corner, Candy Cart and StevenevetS Magician! Enjoy a cuppa from our tea tent and join in with the ceol agus craic just waiting to be had.
The tour to Fancroft Mill and Gardens is now fully booked. For general enquiries, please contact Roscrea Heritage Society via any of the following:
Email – roscreaheritagesociety@gmail.com, Facebook – Roscrea Heritage Society, phone (Pamela) 085-7114183.