A new community-led initiative is set to bring one of Ireland’s finest medieval Franciscan foundations to life for visitors. Ross Errilly Friary Guided Tours will officially launch during National Heritage Week, offering in-depth, engaging tours of the historic site in the Headford area.
The project is the result of extraordinary local collaboration and generosity. A visiting unit, kindly donated by local builder Al Callanan, has been transformed into a tour office by Mike Connell and Fergus Hassett of Headford Men’s Shed. This office will serve as the central hub for all tours and visitor information. Thanks to Headfest and Moyne Villa, who generously funded the materials, and the transformation became a reality.
The group received further support from Joe Kenny of Galway Rural Development (GRD ), who facilitated the involvement of a Rural Social Scheme participant as one of the lead tour guides. John McHugh, spokesperson for the initiative, noted that “it was a real team effort from start to finish. There are eight members on the committee we all had jobs to do and we got it all done in time for heritage week with our official launch is on August 18 ”
Additional support came from John Neary of Galway County Council, who provided professionally produced leaflets to promote the tours. The group also worked closely with Frank Geraghty and Michelle O’Dea of the Office of Public Works (OPW ) to ensure all elements were carefully aligned with heritage protection standards.
Special thanks are extended to Mark Conroy a local landowner for assisting in securing the tour office location, Jim Joyce for the donation of two decorative planters, McGaugh’s Garden Centre have also come on board to sponsor the planting of the planters at the friary. and Frank Heneghan for providing space for meetings and talks throughout the year. The residents of Ross and Ardfintan have also offered invaluable support, for which the team is deeply grateful.
The official launch of Ross Errilly Friary Tours will take place on Monday, August 18, with tours continuing throughout Heritage Week and beyond led by Marcus Wynne.
Tour Schedule – Heritage Week 2025:
August 18: 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm; 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm
August 19: 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm
August 20: 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm; 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm
August 21: 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm; 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm
August 22: 3:00 pm – 3:45 pm; 4:00 pm – 4:45 pm
Further tours will be scheduled after Heritage Week based on public demand. To book a tour please contact Marcus via text – 0892664223 or via email [email protected].
This initiative invites both locals and tourists to discover the captivating stories, architecture, and legacy of Ross ErrillyFriary, guided by those who know it best.
They look forward to welcoming you to experience the rich heritage of Ross
