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 Roscommon is a small county town located in Co. Roscommon and is paradise for those that are enthusiasts of water related activities. The town is slightly inland but you are never far away from the ocean or one of the many rivers that pass through and lakes that dot the county.
The town is home to several historical sites which include Roscommon castle that was built in 1269 only to be taken by Hugh O'Connor in 1276. The O'Connors were in turn attacked and driven out by Donogh O'Kelly in 1308. The O'Connors managed to retake the castle in 1341. The castle changed ownership through battles yet again on several occasions until being finally destroyed in 1691 following the battle of Aughrim.
The Dominican Friary built during the 13th century is worth a visit as is the Roscommon Jail. The jail has the dubious distinction of having had a female executioner (know as Lady Betty). A convicted murderer on death row who had her sentence commuted after she volunteered to serve as the executioner at the jail, it is said that she used to do a sketch of every person before carrying out their sentence.
The Roscommon Racecourse programme extends from April to October. A short trip away is Castlestrange built in beautifully carved Iron Age Celtic La Tene stone. To the West is the River Suck with its Way-Marked Trails for the energetic walker.
As mentioned earlier, the county is home to several bodies of water, such as the Shannon, Boyle and Suck Rivers, as well as the many lakes that dot the county and this in turn provides a prime location for the angling enthusiast. For the golfing enthusiast there are several golf courses in the region as there are equestrian centres for horse riders.
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