Mining Attraction Galway

Glengowla Mines

Lead & silver show mine in Connemara

Make sure you visit this unique attraction when in Galway. The Glengowla Mines and Family Farm Experience is located just off the N59, the main Galway City/Clifden road not far from Oughterard (about 3km) beyond the town. Glengowla is one of the best examples of a silver and lead mine in the country and is, in fact, Ireland’s only show mine!

Glengowla is the remnants of a 19th century silver and lead mine which has been restored into a visitor attraction with a heritage and visitor centre, a blacksmith’s shop, a circular powder house, a rock and mineral shop and lots more.


The mine starting operating in 1851 and for 14 years silver and lead were extracted until the mines were closed in 1865. In 1999, the mines were saved from flooding and opened to the public as Ireland’s only show mine. The mine was actually restored by its owners the Geoghegan family.

Take a tour of the mine today and see what was left behind when the mines were closed. The powder magazine and blacksmith’s workshop are located at the surface and showcase some tools which were used by the miners. As you are guided through the chambers underground, you’ll see ladders, pump rods, pipes, ore tubs and pulleys.

Glengowla has a staggering amount of minerals such as dolomite, quartz, marble and some very rare green and blue octahedral fluorite.

And there’s a lot more to enjoy at Glengowla too.

  • Sheep Dog herding demonstrations
  • Turf Cutting demonstrations
  • Farm walks

Glengowla is also home to a working farm where you can visit the Connemara Ponies, meet Bob the sheep dog, pet the lambs and for advanced group bookings sheep dog herding demonstrations and turf cutting demonstrations are available.

What to expect

Directions & Opening Times

To get to the mine from Galway city, just take the main N59 to Clifden. Pass the town of Oughterard and the mines are on your left after about 3km.

The mines are open to visitors from March – November between 9.30am and 6.30pm daily.

Contact

Phone: 087 252 9850
Email: [email protected]

For further details see the Glengowla Mines website.

Glengowla Mines location map

Glengowla Mines FAQs

Where is Glengowla Mines and Family Farm located?

Glengowla Mines and Family Farm is located 4.5km (5 mins drive) west of Oughterard, County Galway.

What can visitors do at Glengowla Mines?

Visitors can explore Connemara’s only ‘show mine’ on an underground tour. The underground tour focuses on the history of lead and silver mining from the 1800s, and marvel at caverns adorned with marble and precious metals. You can also try gold and gemstone panning.

What is there to do at the Glengowla Farm Experience?

Visitors can watch the fascinating sheep herding demonstrations conducted by farm owner Keith. A covered viewing area ensures uninterrupted enjoyment of the sheep herding demonstrations regardless of the weather. You can also try your hand at the Irish tradition of turf cutting by cutting your own sod. Please note advance booking is required for the Sheep Dog Herding and Turf Cutting Demonstrations.

What else does Glengowla have to offer?

The farm offers leisurely strolls, allowing visitors to trace part of the historic Galway – Clifden railway line and discover local flora and fauna. Also why not enjoy a picnic, making the most of the beautiful Connemara countryside with the backdrop of the Maumturk Mountains.

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