In a celebration of the “old ways,” Dan O’Hara’s cottage outside of Clifden provides a unique look at life in Connemara in years gone by.
The experience begins with an audio-visual presentation and museum visit, and it is topped off with a trip up the hill to Dan O’Hara’s cottage… the very home of Dan from Connemara renowned in the popular ballad (a tenant farmer who was evicted during the famine for failure to pay tax increases on the new, larger windows in his cottage). The site also includes replicas of a crannóg, stone oratory, dolmon tombs, ring fort and a clochaun.
Self-guided tours are available without appointment, but for a bit of story telling, turf-cutting, and a local’s perspective, visitors should ring ahead to find out if there are guided tours available… it’ll be worth adjusting your schedule.
The kids will enjoy the farm animals while the adults may get a bit misty eyed as your guide sings to you the ballad of Dan O’Hara and you toast his memory with a bit of poitín.
More Info:
- Ireland With Kids: Visiting Dan O’Hara’s Cottage in Connemara
- Official website: Connemara Heritage & History Centre
Photos courtesy of www.irelandfamilyvacations.com, Corey Taratuta, and www.connemaraheritage.com
Farmyard Chickens at Dan O’Hara’s Cottage, Connemara 
Written by Jody Halsted
Jody publishes the Ireland travel planning website, Ireland Family Vacations. Her travel philosophy is, “just because you have kids, doesn’t mean you have to stay home!” A frequent traveler to Ireland, Jody helps families plan travel budgets and itineraries that are fun for kids and adults. Jody’s Tips | Website
