Towns in County Longford.

Granard set in the lush countryside of County Longford a few miles west of Lough Sheelin, would make the ideal setting for a relaxing holiday away from the bustle of everyday life. Explore the leafy country lanes, or cast a leisurely line in the nearby lake.

There are approximately 90 ring forts in the vicinity of Granard testifying to a vibrant population during the megalithic period. Granard is the second largest town in Longford, in the past it was burnt twice the first in 1315 during Edward Bruce's failed attempt to conquer Ireland. In November 1315 Edward Bruce and his army approached the town, the local chieftain Con O’Farrell refused to submit to Bruce, the ensuing battle is said to have lasted two days, the old walled town was eventually totally destroyed. The Book of Howth records "About the feast of St. Tendrow the said Bruce did burn Kells and Granard and did spoil the Abbey thereof." On this occasion the townspeople rebuilt their town in its present position, abandoning the previous which was opposite Granardkille Graveyard. The second destruction occurred burring the troubles of the 1920's.

The world famous Granard Harp Festival has an interesting history, the first took place in 1781 at the instigation of a Granard man John Dungan who had settled in Denmark, Dungan had a great love for Irish music, the harp in particular, he supplied funds enabling the festival to be organised. Today the Granard Harp Festival goes from strength to strength, attracting visitors from far and wide.