Underground Mine Tours

Discover Glengowla Mines

A Hidden World Beneath

Step into a tour like no other in the West of Ireland. Glengowla Mines, Connemara’s only show mine, invites you to explore a remarkable underground world abandoned since 1865 and brought back to life for curious adventurers.

Your experience begins the moment you arrive at the Glengowla Mines. The restored Mine Buildings and the Captain’s Cottage, once alive with hardworking miners, now offer a peaceful and atmospheric welcome. Enjoy the sweeping scenery and soak up the history.

Your guided visit starts in the museum, where you’ll discover the minerals found deep below the surface and examine artefacts uncovered during the mine’s restoration. Then it’s time to put your miner’s hard hat on and venture underground.

Beneath the earth, you’ll go back in time to the Irish Famine era, when miners worked tirelessly in challenging conditions. Hear the water drip, see the original chisel marks, and feel the presence of history all around you. Marvel at breathtaking marble chambers and rare octahedral crystals of fluorite and quartz.

Back above ground, try your luck at our gold panning station, a favourite with both adults and children. Keep any gems you uncover! You can also walk and see some of the old buildings that have been restored. Look at some rock formations of marble and granite visible on the site.

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Common Questions

Got questions?
Discover the answers here.

We strive to provide clarity on all inquiries regarding our services.

Can I book more than one activity and will they clash?

Yes you can, and no they won’t!

For example, if you book the 10am Mine Tour, you will be on time for the 11am Sheepdog Demonstration. Or, if you book the 1pm Sheepdog Demonstration you will be on time for the 2pm Mine Tour. If you are looking to book all 3 experiences (Mine Tour, Sheepdog Demonstration and Turf Cutting) please contact us directly and we will sort this for you!

Should I book in advance?

Yes we advise booking in advance through our website to avoid disappointment, but it’s not necessary.

Can I book a private tour?

Yes, please contact us directly and this can be arranged.

Is there an age limit?

No there is no age limit. However, the mine is not accessible to buggies etc, so younger children may need to be carried, so please bear that in mind. The mine site and museum are accessible.

Do you serve food?

No, but we have a self service coffee machine, along with soft drinks and snacks.

When are you open?

Our operational season is between March and October. However, please review our regularly updated opening times on our website and google page.

testimonials

What Our Visitors Say

testimonials

What Our Visitors Say

    
 
 
         
   Michelle W 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing place and.the owner Keith and his dog Pip are so sweet and kind. The gift shop is perfect. We came from Canada to visit this lovely place. Thank you very much for your hospitality.
  
 
        
   Noel Leanos Mejia 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The mine is very nice and the sheep herding is very impressive
  
 
        
   Carlos Cardona 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very friendly and knowledgeable. Would definitely recommend stopping by.
  
 
        
   Morgan Allen 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We visited today while with our tour group, and the sheep-herding demonstration was my favorite thing to see and do so far. Such a sweet family who own and run this working farm and mine. We learned so much about the sheep we’ve been seeing all over the Irish countryside, and were absolutely amazed with the skills of the dogs. If I could move into their precious cottage today, I would have. Such a peaceful and beautiful environment here. And you can find many Irish souvenirs from their gift shop to take home with you. It was nice to be able to purchase many of the items I have been looking to purchase before finishing vacation, and I’m so happy my purchases went to support their family-run business. If you’re in the area or planning a trip to Ireland, definitely add this stop to your itinerary! You won’t regret the visit.
  
 
        
   Billie Jo - Pete Steen 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We were here for the sheep herding demonstration. It was amazing!  I highly recommend!
  
 
        
   Paige Allen 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. By far our favorite stop in Ireland thus far! Thank you for sharing your farm with us. 🤍
  
 
        
   John H 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing informative stuff on the Farm today. Keith showed and explained so many details of the changes they face today as Farmers.
  
 
        
   Erika Cisneros L 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great visit, informative and fun.  Loved it