Enjoy a pulsating re-telling of one of Ireland’s most pivotal battles through an interactive experience – A fascinating day out for families, school children, and anyone with an interest in history
The Battle of Aughrim Visitor Centre is currently closed until summer 2021.
The health and safety of our visitors and team members is our top priority; therefore, we have put a comprehensive COVID-19 policy in place. Please read it carefully and adhere to all safety protocols during your visit. COVID-19 Policy
More than 5,000 men killed in four hours. The most electrifying battle in Irish military history. The decisive battle of the Williamite War in Ireland!
Come to the enthralling Battle of Aughrim Visitor Centre in Co. Galway and immerse yourself in one of the most extraordinary military events in Ireland’s checkered history. On 12th July (equivalent to 25th July in the modern calendar) 1691, approximately 35,000 troops from eight European nations made up the opposing forces of William of Orange and King James II who went head-to-head just outside Aughrim village as part of the wider struggle for the throne of England. It resulted in the highest loss of life in any single battle on Irish soil.
Immerse yourself in the combat through our gripping Battle of Aughrim video, which places you at the heart of the battlefield: hearing gunshots, seeing casualties fall, feeling the fear/tension of those soldiers. This vivid, pulsating re-telling of the story of one of Ireland’s most pivotal battles brings it to life and makes it feel real.
You’ll also get a very unique insight into the gripping Battle of Aughrim through our detailed Battlefield Diorama with model soldiers. This, coupled with expert commentary from our enthusiastic tour guides, gives you a 3D experience of the difficult terrain and tactics used by both sides.
Explore the Battle of Aughrim through our engaging audio-visual exhibition and discover the strategies, the players, the stakes and the calamitous mistake of the Jacobite commander in what was effectively the final armed conflict in this war as three kings strived for west European dominance. Find out what Ireland was like at the time of the Battle of Aughrim and learn more about the events that led up to the fateful day.
Get a sense of the weight of the muskets the soldiers had to carry into battle. Feel the fabrics of the uniforms and the weight of the weaponry. Enjoy the interactive experience of feeling like a soldier.
Discover implements contained in a typical Barber-Surgeon Kit from the 17th century — an era when few people survived surgery.
What makes us unique?
The Battle of Aughrim Visitor Centre is the only tourist attraction which depicts this very significant battle and, other than the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre, the only one that specifically deals with this period of history.
We provide you with a very personal touch: our knowledgeable tour guide will spend time with you to ensure that you get the chance to ask the questions that are of particular interest to you. At quiet times, s/he will be delighted to give you a private tour — this creates a more intimate and special experience.
A fantastic day out!
A visit to the Battle of Aughrim Visitor Centre is a fantastic experience for families, school children and anyone with an interest in history. After your riveting learning experience in the centre, why not relax with a coffee while the kids have fun in the playground. Enjoy a bite to eat in the village before walking the Battlefield Trail or bringing your children to the nearby park, which showcases a small recreation of the battlefield. It’s a delightful, cultural day out!
Tripadvisor Reviews
"A little gem. A beautiful, interesting visit. The detail is fantastic.”
“Staff are very friendly, expertly informed.”
“This was a highlight of my visit to Ireland”
To read reviews in full, click here.
