A guided tour of the Athenry Heritage Centre is the ideal way to discover the best preserved medieval town in Ireland. Experience this history with your very own tour guide whose local knowledge and history of the town will highlight the influences of the Anglo-Normans in Athenry 

Your journey begins with an introduction to the town, its buildings and the de Birmingham family, the mighty Lords of the Manor. See the towns original Mace & Seal, the oldest of their kind in Ireland, whose 600 year history is reflected in their design and illustrates how this medieval town became rich and economically prosperous.

Take a walk down a medieval street to learn what the locals ate, wore and drank. Enter the dungeon and find a range of torture exhibits which were used on prisoners and traitors. Or place yourself in the stocks and relive the horrors of this simple but effective punishment.

Try on medieval armour and learn about the history of medieval warfare which also includes displays of chainmail, archery, swords and helmets of the Anglo-Normans. 

COVID19

Please note that the Athenry Arts & Heritage Centre maintains a contact tracing log. All online booking details are retained for 14 days. The centre will only use the booking email address in case of an immediate need to contact you. Your safety is paramount to us and it also ensures the safety of the tour guides as well. 

Families will be thrilled with the Athenry Heritage Centre’s ‘Medieval Experience’. Step back into a world of Kings and Queens and let your child become a Knight or a Princess, there are many designs to choose from and it’s a great photo opportunity too! 

Your fun filled tour is led by an experienced tour guide who brings you on a 500 year journey which includes interactive exhibits, models of the town, the market square and the medieval dungeon.

Your journey is complete with Have A Go Archery, which is a great opportunity to discover your inner Robin Hood and it’s accessible for all ages.

Due to Covid19 restrictions we can only provide costumes for children, however the archery activity is available for all.