Craggaunowen- worth it?
 

We like ancient historical things and I heard Craggaunowen had a park with that theme. I read that it was overrated and others say it hits the mark. But this was old information. Anyone have an opinion?

How does it compare to the Irish National Heritage Center (did I get the name right?) in Wexford?

We're debating driving from Galway or Roscommon to Wexford just for that park/center on a quick 6-day holiday.

Ideas?
Thanks!!

I was not at all impressed with the Irish National Heritage Park near Wexford. I wouldn't go 5 miles out of my way to visit it.

I have not been to Craggaunowen in a few years. I hear that part of it burned down and was being rebuilt. Whether that is complete I don't know. It used to be enjoyable.

What about Lough Gur? There is a small museum there. There are many ancient sites around the lake including Ireland's largest stone circle. http://www.shannonheritage.com/LoughGur.htm

We enjoyed Craggaunowen. Our son liked going into the recreated historic dwellings. My husband and I really liked seeing the Brendan vessel - the recreated boat used to cross the Atlantic. I still think about that boat from time to time.

In some ways we liked that center better than the Ulster American folk park.

I really can't imagine driving from Galway to Wexford to visit a Heritage Center! That's one day in Ireland you won't get back.

Thank you IrishEyes and rosetravels! You both helped me very much (and prob saved us some sanity!). Thanks for the quick response.

IMHO, Craggaunowen is a great place--better than the other two mentioned. I was at the Heritage Center in Wexford two years ago and while it was mildly interesting, I certainly wouldn't drive from Galway or Roscommon for it. I felt Lough Gur was overrated (however, it didn't help that it was the pouring rain on the first day of arrival after a very stressful flight.) Craggaunowen is the only one of the places where I would take the time for a return trip even though I have been four times (was traveling with different people each time.)

Craggaunowen also had a delightful cottage where I have had some delicious lunches.