This historic town was founded by St Tighernach in the 6th century. You can still see the round tower which belonged to his monastery and all-around Clones you can discover signs of this ecclesiastical past – the ancient High Cross that stands in the Diamond and the 12th century St Peter and Paul’s Abbey – known to locals as ‘the wee abbey’.
Another building of note is the Cassandra Hand Folk and Famine Centre. This tells the story of the Famine and its impact on the lives of the people of the area.
The Ulster Canal Stores Visitor Centre was originally a distribution centre for goods using the Ulster Canal. It is now home to a unique museum which tells the story of Clones Crochet Lace and how it thrived as a cottage industry and sustained many local families in hard times. There is also a lovely bistro on site and it’s set in a peaceful site along the banks of the old Canal.
That is just a taste of the story of Clones. To discover more visitors can follow the Clones Heritage Trail (Self-guided or Walking Tour option).
On the N54 route. 20Km from Monaghan Town. 25Km from Cavan Town. 130Km from Dublin Airport. 120Km from Belfast International Airport.
Clones, Co. Monaghan, Ireland