Cavan
The town grew up around a Franciscan abbey and an O'Reilly castle, and the lakes start a short drive west at Lough Oughter. Cavan is the county town, in the lakelands of the north midlands.
Best sites to see in Cavan
Cathedral of Saints Patrick and Felim
The mid-20th-century Catholic cathedral in the town, a large stone church with stained glass, dominating the approach into Cavan.
Killykeen Forest Park and Lough Oughter
A forest park on the shores of Lough Oughter a short drive west of town, with waymarked woodland trails around the Cavan lakelands.
Cavan town centre and Market Square
The compact commercial centre of the county town, with Farnham Street and the market area at its heart.
Where to stand, and when
- Killykeen Forest Park lakeshore: Early morning often gives mist and calm reflections on Lough Oughter among the trees.
- The cathedral exterior from the town approach: Late afternoon light suits the stone facade and gives the clearest view of its scale.
- Lough Oughter shoreline trails: Look for gaps in the woodland for sunset views west across the lake.
Cavan through history
Cavan is the county town of County Cavan, in the lakeland country of the north midlands.
The town grew up around a Franciscan abbey founded around 1300 and a castle of the O'Reilly chieftains, the ruling family of the kingdom of East Breifne.
Cavan's position among the lakes and drumlins of the River Erne catchment shaped its role as a market and administrative centre for a largely rural county.
Practical tips
- Killykeen Forest Park is the main outdoor excursion from town, so bring walking shoes and check trail signs at the car park.
- Lakeland weather changes quickly, so carry rain gear even when setting out in sunshine.
- Allow driving time between sights, as the lakes and forest parks around Cavan are spread out rather than in the town itself.
What's on
No anchor festival is based here, but the Irish year is full: next up nationally is TradFest (20–24 Jan 2027, Temple Bar, Dublin). See the full events calendar