Explore the Stories of this ‘Wild Romantic District’ in County Mayo

Explore the Stories of this ‘Wild Romantic District’ in County Mayo

The picturesque village of Turlough in Mayo is nestled along the north bank of the Castlebar River. Described by Samuel Lewis in 1837 as a “wild romantic district”, Turlough is a landscape of outstanding natural beauty and heritage, filled with opportunities for exploration and enjoyment.

Turlough’s history is a rich and varied one. The agricultural landscape that has developed around the abundance of rivers and lakes that define this part of Mayo is crammed with the story of its people and its places.

In this audio guide, we will journey back to the days of Ireland’s patron saint, Patrick, who is said to have visited here. We will also discover stories of the two great lordly families of the area, the Burkes and Fitzgeralds. We will witness the impact and influence of the Turlough Park estate on the local community, and follow the development of its great house and gardens. We will explore the folklife collections in the newly constructed Museum behind the great house. We will walk the streets and fields of Turlough village, exploring the diverse community which formed its population–a community that once boasted religious houses from no less than four different faiths. Along the way we will encounter everything from legendary figures to industrial labourers and even Ireland’s most notorious duellist.

All this and more make up the story of Turlough, one of the true hidden gems of County Mayo.

Title: Turlough Audio Guide

Duration:35 mins

Summary:

This audio guide was produced by Abarta Heritage on behalf of the Turlough Archaeological and Heritage Society and was supported by The Heritage Council Community Grants Scheme 2025. The guide was written by Damian Shiels and edited by Róisín Burke. It was narrated by Gerry O’Brien and produced at Bluebird Studios with sound engineer Declan Lonergan.

If you would like to hear similar audio guides from other heritage sites around Ireland, please be sure to subscribe to Discover the Stories of Ireland by Abarta Heritage on your favourite podcast platform.

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