Castlecomer
Discover the hidden stories and ancient magic of this remarkable place.
About Castlecomer
Castlecomer tells a unique story in Irish history – 400 years of coal mining that shaped a community unlike any other in the region. Set amid beautiful woodland at the foothills of the Castlecomer Plateau, this former mining town has reinvented itself as an adventure destination.
The Discovery Park offers ziplines, climbing walls, and woodland trails, while the town center retains its Georgian character and friendly community spirit.
Historical Background
Coal was first discovered here in the 1630s, and the Wandesforde family developed the mines that would operate for over 350 years. At its peak in the early 20th century, the mines employed thousands and Castlecomer was one of the most prosperous towns in the region. The mines finally closed in 1969, ending an era. The town's heritage is preserved in local museums and the Discovery Park, which was built on the former demesne lands. The distinctive planned layout of the town, with its wide main street, reflects the Wandesforde family's Georgian-era development.
Folklore & Legends
"Mining communities have rich folklore, and Castlecomer is no exception. Miners spoke of the 'knockers' – small spirits who lived in the mines and would tap on the walls to warn of danger (or cause mischief). The transition 'from black to green' – from coal mining to forestry and recreation – is seen as a kind of redemption story. Local legend tells of a white deer that appears in the Discovery Park woods, said to be the spirit of Lady Anne Wandesforde, still watching over the lands she once called home."