Longford aims to position itself as a sustainable destination rooted in heritage and culture.
Longford has set out an ambitious vision for its tourism sector with the launch of a revitalised county-wide network and a €14 million investment programme designed to transform visitor experiences over the next 30 months.
The Longford Tourism Network, which brings together public bodies, private operators, community groups and Just Transition projects, was formally introduced at an event in the Crypt of St Mel’s Cathedral in December.
“Our goal is to support rural communities to thrive through realistic, long-term tourism development”
More than 80 stakeholders attended, including hospitality businesses, attraction managers and industry representatives.
Community spirit
“This is a proud moment for Longford,” said Garry Murtagh, Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council. “The Tourism Network reflects our shared ambition to create a vibrant, sustainable tourism sector that benefits every community.”
The initiative is backed by Longford County Council and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. It aims to position the county as a distinctive destination built on heritage, culture and natural beauty. Tourism Officer Denise Canavan said sustainability – economic, environmental and social – is central to the strategy.
“Our goal is to support rural communities to thrive through realistic, long-term tourism development,” she said.
The investment package combines public funding with private contributions and will support projects under the Town and Village Regeneration Scheme, as well as major developments such as Connolly Barracks and the former Post Office site in Longford town.
Paddy Mahon, chief executive of Longford County Council, described tourism as “a cornerstone of economic and social development” and said the funding would “strengthen the county’s position as a must-visit destination”.
The network has also announced plans for a new Visit Longford brand and website, supported by Fáilte Ireland’s Just Transition Digital Programme, due to launch in the second quarter of 2026. Other priorities include enhanced promotion of the National Famine Way, Royal Canal Greenway and Shannon Discovery Points, alongside a major presence at the RDS Holiday World Show later this month.
Strategic partnerships are already bearing fruit. Collaboration with Visit Westmeath has secured Longford’s status as one of seven national Home of Halloween hubs for the next three years. A calendar of cultural events – including Culture Night, Longford Lights Festival and Christmas markets – has helped animate the destination throughout 2025.
A Community-Led Visitor Facilities Group has been established to pilot a three-year model for joint marketing, group tours, training and funding bids. Several members are undertaking QQI-certified guide training, with more sites expected to join.
The next network meeting will take place on 3 March. Updates will be issued every 90 days as Longford seeks to build a resilient, collaborative tourism offering.
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