Looking for things to do in Oughterard? This lively village on the shores of Lough Corrib is known as the gateway to Connemara — and right in its heart you’ll find Oughterard Courthouse, a beautifully restored 1840s courthouse that is now a vibrant arts, culture and education space for locals and visitors alike. Whether you have an hour between showers or a full day to spend, here is our local guide to the best things to do in Oughterard and the surrounding countryside.
1. Visit the Gallery at Oughterard Courthouse
Built in the 1840s to a design by architect William Caldbeck and in use as a District Court until 2008, the Courthouse was restored in 2012–14 and reopened as a culture and arts centre. Its bright, contemporary “white space” gallery, with hanging and showcase facilities and abundant natural lighting, hosts the OCAP summer season of art exhibitions — the 2026 season was officially opened by President Catherine Connolly on the 12th of June.
2. Step Into Local Heritage
The Courthouse is home to two permanent heritage exhibitions: Footprints on the Shoreline, exploring Mesolithic life and the Corrib boatmen, and From Foraging to Farming, tracing the arrival of the Neolithic in Ireland.
3. Catch a Talk, Play or Music Evening
Throughout the year the 75-seat venue hosts heritage talks, theatre from the Haw Theatre company, music evenings and community events — see the news and events page for what’s on.
4. Join a Workshop or Class
The Courthouse is also a learning and discussion space, with workshops and classes ranging from yoga and mindfulness to arts and educational courses.
5. Explore Oughterard and Surrounds
Beyond the Courthouse, Oughterard offers plenty to fill a day: boat trips and angling on Lough Corrib, the 16th-century Aughnanure Castle, the Glengowla Mines, the famous Quiet Man Bridge, and walking routes into Connemara. The area is also part of the Joyce Country and Western Lakes Geopark, which has been awarded UNESCO status.
Things to Do in Oughterard Village
In the village itself you are never far from the water. Take a stroll along the Owenriff river, which runs through the heart of Oughterard on its way into Lough Corrib, or follow the lakeshore road out to the piers for views over the islands. Anglers have been drawn to Lough Corrib’s brown trout for generations, and boat trips and angling can be arranged locally in season. A short distance from the village stands 16th-century Aughnanure Castle, stronghold of the O’Flahertys. And in the middle of it all, the Courthouse’s own exhibitions, heritage talks and events give any visit to Oughterard a cultural heart, whatever the weather.
Make a Day of It in Oughterard
One of the joys of Oughterard is how easily a visit comes together. Because the village is compact and walkable, you can begin with the exhibitions and heritage displays at Oughterard Courthouse, wander down to the Owenriff river, and still have time for the lakeshore before lunch. Many visitors build their day around Lough Corrib, whose islands, piers and brown-trout fishing have drawn people to this corner of Connemara for generations. Add a visit to 16th-century Aughnanure Castle or the Glengowla Mines and you have an itinerary that mixes indoor culture with the great outdoors.
If you enjoy a scenic drive, Oughterard is the natural gateway to Connemara, with the Quiet Man Bridge and the wider Joyce Country and Western Lakes UNESCO Global Geopark all within easy reach. Walkers can pick up routes that climb out of the valley for views over Lough Corrib and the surrounding hills, while quieter afternoons are well spent following the river or the lakeshore road at your own pace.
Whatever the weather, there are things to do in Oughterard for every kind of visitor. On bright days the lake, castle and countryside are hard to beat; when the Connemara rain sets in, the Courthouse offers a warm, welcoming space with changing exhibitions, heritage talks and workshops to enjoy. Families, history lovers, anglers and art enthusiasts will all find something here, which is exactly why Oughterard makes such a rewarding base for exploring this part of the west of Ireland.
Plan Your Visit
Oughterard Courthouse is located in Oughterard, Connemara, Co. Galway. Check the latest events or book the space for your own exhibition, workshop or event.