Carrickmacross, Ireland
Carrickmacross was a quiet country stop on our August 2024 Ireland road trip — a single night at a guesthouse in this small County Monaghan town as we wound our way across the island.
Our experience
It's the kind of place you only discover when you rent a car and follow the back roads: a tidy market town in the rolling countryside of the border counties, far from Ireland's busiest tourist routes.
We loved the change of pace — a friendly local welcome, green countryside, and the sense of seeing the real, everyday Ireland between the bigger destinations.
These small-town nights often end up among the most memorable parts of a road trip.
Carrickmacross is famous for Carrickmacross lace, a delicate traditional craft that has been associated with the town since the 19th century. Today, visitors can still see the work at the Carrickmacross Lace Gallery in Market Square.
Must-sees and must-dos
- Carrickmacross lace — discover the town's celebrated traditional lace and the craft that made Carrickmacross famous.
- St. Joseph's Church — a historic local church featuring remarkable Harry Clarke stained-glass windows.
- The drumlin countryside — take in the rolling green landscape of County Monaghan.
- Local pubs — settle in for a pint and a taste of small-town Irish hospitality.
- Lough Muckno — a scenic lake and outdoor recreation area in nearby Castleblayney.
- Country drives — explore the quiet roads and countryside surrounding Carrickmacross.
Our pro tip
A town like Carrickmacross is best enjoyed as part of an Ireland driving loop — you'll want a car, and remember to drive on the left.
Don't over-plan; the pleasure is in a comfortable place to stay, a local pub, and time to explore the surrounding countryside. It's a calm, authentic overnight stop between Ireland's bigger destinations.
If you want to stay right in Carrickmacross, check The Shirley Arms Hotel on Klook, located on Main Street in the center of town.