Here’s our pick of the top 10 things to do in County Monaghan before you die.
Monaghan is a county on the east coast of Ireland. It makes up one of the counties of the Ireland–Northern Ireland Border Region.
With stunning natural beauty and a raw quality to its wilderness and waterways, County Monaghan makes for a fantastic weekend trip away, or a stop en route to or from the North.
Curious as to what you should do during your future trip to the county? Here are the top 10 things to do and see in County Monaghan.
Ireland Before You Die’s top tips for visiting Monaghan:
- Always book accommodation in advance to avoid disappointment and for the best deals.
- Renting a car is the best way to explore County Monaghan and its neighbouring counties.
- Irish weather is temperamental, so always pack for all types of weather.
- Monaghan borders the Northern Irish counties Fermanagh, Tyrone, and Armagh. Make sure to have pounds as well as euros if you plan to take a trip to these counties.
- Phone signal can be unreliable in rural areas, so we advise downloading maps in advance.
10. Monaghan County Museum – for a rainy day
Steeped in history and educational exhibits, the Monaghan County Museum is a fantastic rainy-day activity when in the town.
Knowledgeable staff are on hand to offer further insight into the exhibitions housed in this museum, which celebrates local history, heritage, and culture.
Ideal for: History buffs, families, and solo travellers keen to explore Monaghan’s local history through captivating exhibits.
Address: 1 Hill St, Mullaghmonaghan, Monaghan
9. Roberto’s Coffee Shop – for a leisurely lunch
Roberto’s Coffee Shop is a local’s secret. It may seem like your typical no-frills café, but it is a hidden gem with some of the finest coffee and freshest baked treats in all of the county.
It’s small in size and packs quite a punch, but don’t depend on there being any available seating in this little local gem.
Ideal for: Couples, groups, and coffee lovers seeking a cosy spot to relax with delicious coffee and homemade treats.
Address: Unit 9 /10, Monaghan Shopping Centre, Dawson St, Tirkeenan, Monaghan
8. St. Peter’s Tin Church Laragh – for uniqueness
This unique church is certainly a must-visit sight to see in Monaghan. Quirky in design and an antithesis of all other Irish churches you’re likely to come across, St. Peter’s Tin Church is as charming as they come.
Built on a perch overlooking a meandering stream that wraps its way around its roots, this is a sight for sore eyes and likely to be different from what you’re used to seeing on the Emerald Isle.
Ideal for: Architecture enthusiasts, solo adventurers, and couples interested in visiting this unique 19th-century corrugated iron church.
Address: Dooraa, Laragh, Co. Monaghan
7. Andy’s Bar and Restaurant – for dinner and a drink
This old-school establishment is a favourite of Monaghan locals. The family-run bar and restaurant is a veteran on the local dining scene by now, and with its quaint Victorian charm, free-flowing Guinness, and top-class service, you can’t go wrong.
Sadly this restaurant doesn’t offer much for veggies and vegans, but diets favouring meat, fish, and poultry are all well catered for.
Ideal for: Groups, families, and couples looking to enjoy a mix of great food, drinks, and a warm, lively atmosphere.
Address: 12 Market St, Mullaghmonaghan, Monaghan, H18 N772
6. Mullaghmore Equestrian Centre – for animal lovers
If you’re looking for fun things to do and see in County Monaghan, check out the Mullaghmore Equestrian Centre.
Offering classes for beginner riders, all the way to advanced, wild country treks, and even therapeutic horse-riding for those with disabilities, there’s sure to be something for everyone at this riding centre.
Ideal for: Equestrian lovers, families, and groups eager for a fun day out horse riding across beautiful landscapes.
Address: The Hay Loft, Mullaghmore House, Aghaboy North, Monaghan
5. Busy Bee Ceramics – for crafty people
If you’re keen on craftwork, check out Busy Bee Ceramics in Monaghan. Not only is the owner and artist Brenda McGinn’s ceramic studio stunning, but her body of work is beautiful.
More so, visitors of all ages can partake in workshops. There is the Mini Potters Club designed for you and your toddler, school tours, and group sessions.
Ideal for: Creative travellers, families, and solo adventurers who want to get hands-on with pottery and ceramic workshops.
Address: No. 1 , Main Street, Castle Leslie Estate, Glaslough, Co. Monaghan, H18 AK71
4. Irish Country Quads – for thrill seekers
If you’re looking to raise some hell, look no further than Irish Country Quads in County Monaghan. This activity centre is best suited for thrill seekers who love adrenaline rushes and adventure in equal measure.
Irish Country Quads offer not only quad biking but also clay pigeon shooting and archery.
Ideal for: Adventure seekers, groups, and families looking for an adrenaline-packed day of quad biking and outdoor fun.
Address: Carrickykelly, Inniskeen, Co. Monaghan, A91 HY74
3. Rossmore Forest Park – for nature lovers
When it comes to things to do and see in County Monaghan, a top pick for nature lovers is Rossmore Forest Park. This wild and enchanting nature reserve in County Monaghan is the perfect place on a mild day to stretch your legs or take on a forest trail.
The national forest park is located close to Monaghan town, making it super accessible for a daytime excursion.
Ideal for: Nature lovers, hikers, and families wanting to explore beautiful walking trails, woodland, and outdoor sculptures.
READ MORE: Our guide to the best forest parks in Ireland.
Address: Skeagarvey, Co. Monaghan
2. Patrick Kavanagh Resource Centre – for literary folk
If you’re a literary type with a love for Irish poets and playwrights, one thing to do in Monaghan is to check out the Patrick Kavanagh Resource Centre in Inniskeen.
This centre is brimming with educational and inspirational aids, all dedicated to the late, great Irish poet Patrick Kavanagh. Events and awards also take place in this resource centre.
Ideal for: Literature enthusiasts, solo travellers, and couples interested in the life and works of the famous Irish poet.
MORE TIPS: The IB4UD three-day Monaghan itinerary.
Address: Lacklum Cottage, Lacklom, Inishkeen, Co. Monaghan
1. Muckno Lake – for a sunny day
There is no better way to spend a sunny day in County Monaghan than on Muckno Lake, also known as Lough Muckno. This sparkling freshwater lake is located close to the town of Castleblayney.
Offering endless outdoor activities and water sports, this is the ideal spot for the entire family when the sun comes out to play. There’s even a leisure park on its perimeter, offering water-skiing, wake boarding, and fishing.
Ideal for: Outdoor enthusiasts, anglers, and families who enjoy water sports, fishing, and scenic lakeside picnics.
RELATED READ: The Ireland Before You Die guide to Castleblayney Outdoor Adventure at Lough Muckno Park.
Location: Lough Muckno, Co. Monaghan
Your questions answered about the best things to do in Monaghan
In this section, we answer some of our readers’ most frequently asked questions about the best things to do in County Monaghan.
Is Monaghan in Ireland or Northern Ireland?
Monaghan is part of Ulster, but is not part of Northern Ireland. It is one of three Ulster counties that are part of the Republic of Ireland along with Donegal and Cavan.
What does Monaghan mean in Irish?
Monaghan comes from the Irish word ‘Muineachán’ which means ‘The Land of Little Hills’.
What is the main town in Monaghan?
The main town in Monaghan is the eponymous town of Monaghan.
