There are a number of fun things to do in Macroom. From historical sites to cultural attractions, you can explore this exhaustive list of all local attractions in Macroom in County Cork, Ireland.
Things you'll find in this article
Fun Things To Do In Macroom Ireland (For 2024)
1.Toy Soldier Factory
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If you are visiting Macroom with kids, then head out to Toy Soldier Factory to experience the only toy soldier factory in Europe. Aside from wide selections of toys which houses hand-cast and hand-painted figures, the Toy Soldier Factory offers a “make and paint workshops” where visitors can hand-cast and paint their own toy figure.
Also, among their collections are the world’s largest model battle scene of the Battle at Waterloo which comprises over 15,000 hand-cast and hand-painted figures and the largest range of Lord Of The Rings miniatures.
Opening Hours
Mon-Fri – 9 am -5pm
Sat-Sun – 10 am- 5pm
Admission Fee
€3 per person
Children under 10 years are free
Contact Information
Location: 1 Kilnamartyra, Macroom P12 FN79, Co. Cork, Ireland
Email: info@toysoldierfactory.ie
Phone: +353 (0)26 40222 | 40342
2. The Gearagh
The Gearagh is a submerged glacial woodland and nature reserve. It is located 2 km east of Macroom and is popular for the submerged Oak trees that are over century years old.
The Gearagh is also the remains of the only glacial alluvial forest in Western Europe. It was formed at the end of Ice Age and the abrupt change in velocity resulted in the displacement of rocks and soil in the area. The displacement created numerous islands separated by streams and the woodlands developed in the area. Because of its natural beauty of woodlands and the eerie feel of the submerged Oak trees, Gearagh is a popular walking trail in the area.
3. Coolavokig Pottery
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If you want to do something different in Macroom, try the pottery making workshop in Coolavokig Pottery. The Coolavokig Pottery has been making high-quality ceramics fired in in the oldest wood-fired kiln in Ireland. Tourists are welcomed to attend the workshop and enjoy the artists of pottery making.
Opening Hours
October -March
Mon- Sunday – 9am – 7pm
April- September
Mon-Sun- 8am -8pm
Contact Information
Location: Lissacraesig, Macroom, Co. Cork, Ireland
Email: info @ coolavokigpottery.com
Phone:+353 26 40172
4. Farran Forest Park
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The Farran Forest Park is a national forest in Ireland located on the southern shore of Inniscarra lake in Macroom. Because of its scenic location, it is a popular picnic ground for locals. The forest park has a duck pond, wild animals, a children’s playground, a rowing center, and an old shooting lodge.
5. St Colman’s Church
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In true Irish fashion, St Colman’s Church is a beautiful Roman Catholic church in which design is influenced by Irish symbols. The church is adorned by handcrafted shamrocks and a hand laid mosaic flooring. It took 47 years to build this church. Located at the top of the hill, it also boasts the best view in Macroom.
Opening Hours
Mon- Fri- 7:30 am- 10 am
Sat- 10 am- 7 pm
Sun- 12pm
Contact Information
Address: Chapel Hill, Sleveen East, Macroom, Co. Cork, P12 VP20,
Email:info@cloynediocese.ie
Phone: +353 26 21068
6. Macroom Castle
Macroom Castle is the most historic building in Macroom. It was built in the 12th century by the O’Flynn family who owned the land but eventually overthrown by the McCarthys – a famous family clan in Ireland with a long list of royals and noblemen. They also built several castles and some of them are considered the best castles in Ireland.
The McCarthys occupied Macroom Castle until the 17th century. The castle was burned down several times under McCarthy’s ownership. During the Commonwealth period, it was given to Admiral William Penn, the father of the Pennsylvania (USA) founder. He restored the castle and gave it back to the McCarthys. The castle was burned down for one last time in 1922 by anti-treaty forces during the evacuation of British Auxiliaries. In 1924, the castle was sold to the group of local businessmen. Currently, there’s nothing left on the castle except the gateway and the tower. However, it still the main focal point in the town of Macroom.
7. Carrigadrohid Castle
Carrigadrohid Castle is a ruined 3-story tower located in the picturesque setting of River Lee. Although it’s not located exactly in Macroom, it is located only 8 km east of Macroom so a quick trip is doable.
It was owned by McCarthys from the 15th century until 1650 when the Bowens took over the castle until the 18th century. The castle had been abandoned since then. However, a project is underway to revive the castle. If you want a serene place to enjoy an off-the-beaten-path of Ireland, this place is a must.
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