The County Guide: Deputy Digital Editor Sarah Finnan’s guide to Longford
Having lived in Longford for most of her life, Deputy Digital Editor Sarah Finnan shares her insider guide for all the best places to eat, drink, shop and see on your next visit.
Let’s be honest, Longford doesn’t get much love. Even I’ve turned my nose up at it on occasion, choosing trips to more cosmopolitan corners of the country over a weekend at home. But, I’m here to repent for my ignorance. Having moved back in with my family just over a year ago, I’ve become reacquainted with the locality and it turns out I was wrong; Longford has lots going for it.
I think as a teen, it’s difficult to appreciate your hometown. Living in the middle of nowhere often means you’re reliant on other people to ferry you around and so you begin to feel stuck. You resent not being able to hop on a bus or walk to the shops for a bag of Tayto and if you’re anything like me, you spend much of your youth wishing you were somewhere else. Over the years, my feelings for Longford have changed – moving away will do that to you. What once you took for granted, you now cherish because you realise how fleeting it all is.
Summers at home are my favourite. I live near a small village called Ardagh, surrounded by countryside. The stars are always brighter here, the sunsets better and the birdsong at its most cheerful. I inherited a profound appreciation for the grand stretch from my father and there’s nothing I love more than a late evening stroll with him to take it all in.
It all sounds quite blissful, doesn’t it? That’s how I like to remember my hometown these days. Granted, nothing is perfect and we definitely have our problems—the abundance of derelict properties just one—but, there’s plenty to shout about too.
From an award-winning spa to picturesque woodland walks and the best hot chocolate this side of Dublin, read on for Sarah Finnan’s insider guide to Longford…
BREAKFAST/LUNCH
Torc Café. I spent most of my first year of college working weekends at Torc Café and loved being on a long shift as it meant I got lunch! For breakfast, you can’t go wrong with pancakes (I also love their veggie fry) and don’t leave without a hot chocolate – they make theirs using scoops of melted chocolate from an actual chocolate fountain. Heavenly.
DINNER
Vocella’s. Run by an old school friend of mine, Vocella’s is an award-winning restaurant with a menu influenced by good Italian food and an array of other fusion cuisines. The portions are massive and I love that you can see the chefs working away in the kitchen while you wait. They’ve also fed everyone from Deirdre O’Kane to Will Ferrell so you don’t just have to take my word for it.
Mekong. An Asian street food restaurant on Main Street, this is a firm favourite amongst my friend group – my pal Elaine, who now lives in Australia, claims it’s the one thing she misses most about home. Not quite sure how to feel about that…
The Rustic Inn. If you want a hearty Sunday dinner, The Rustic Inn will never steer you wrong. Popular for all manner of celebrations, from weddings to christenings, it’s laid-back and cosy inside and is almost always busy – the sign of a true local gem.