Loughrea

Discover lovely Loughrea

Loughrea stands on the ridge that rises above the shores of the lake, the grey lake that gives the place its name. It lies on the ancient route between the Shannon and the coast. The shores of the lake run along the town’s southern border, giving Loughrea a well-defined shape. The town plan is roughly an east to west rectangle.

A little Loughrea history

This tranquil countryside contains rich fine farmland. As a result it has been inhabited since prehistory, and archaeological remains are everywhere here. Loughrea as a town dates from 1236, when the Anglo-Norman Knight Richard de Burgo (or de Burgh) built a castle here. The town can boast of having the only working ‘Town Moat’ in Ireland. This waterfilled medieval moat was built in the mid-13th century. It ran directly outside the medieval walls, and its circuit can still be seen.

There is also evidence of human settlement in the area much earlier than this mediaeval settlement, and the famous Turoe Stone, carved around 100 BC, lies just north of Loughrea near the village of Bullaun.

Lough Rea has one of Ireland’s few fresh water Blue Flag beaches, at Long Point. It has excellent fishing too and boats can be hired locally.

Where to stay

Loughrea has a large choice of great places to stay from hotels, guesthouses and B&B’s
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How to get to Loughrea, Co. Galway

Travel by bus on Citylink on their Galway to Loughrea commuter service. Loughrea is a satellite town of Galway City, so has regular bus services every day. Alternatively travel by car from Galway taking the M6 and N65 road west from Galway City.

Discover Loughrea before you go

Map of Loughrea, Co. Galway