about the herds cottage
A Cottage with History,
Character, and Countryside Charm
Discover the story behind The Herd’s Cottage, a beautifully restored self-catering cottage in Dunmore, Co. Galway,
where traditional Irish heritage meets peaceful modern comfort.
about the herds cottage
A Cottage with History,
Character, and Countryside Charm
Discover the story behind The Herd’s Cottage, a beautifully restored self-catering cottage in Dunmore, Co. Galway, where traditional Irish heritage meets peaceful modern comfort.
Welcome to The Herd’s Cottage
The Herd’s Cottage is a charming self-catering cottage located in a peaceful wooded setting approximately 3 kilometres from Dunmore town in Co. Galway. Surrounded by nature and tucked away off the main road, the cottage offers guests a quiet and relaxing countryside retreat while still being within easy reach of local amenities and attractions.
Whether you are visiting for a short break, a family holiday, or a longer stay exploring the West of Ireland, The Herd’s Cottage offers a warm, comfortable, and memorable place to stay. Its unique setting, rich history, and restored character make it much more than just accommodation. It is a place to slow down, unwind, and experience the charm of rural Ireland.
The Story Behind the Cottage
The Herd’s Cottage takes its name from the historic Carrantryla House estate. In years gone by, the cottage was the home of the herd or caretaker employed by the owners of the estate, giving it a special place in the local history of Dunmore.
Carrantryla House was once one of the significant historic houses in Dunmore and was first owned by the Catholic Burkes. Over time, the estate passed through a number of hands until the Land Commission took over in 1914. Today, reminders of that past still remain, including the orchard wall, an archway believed to have been taken from an ancient wall in Tuam, and the closed family crypt with its engraved headstone.
Historical records such as the Tithe Applotment Books, the 1901 and 1911 Census, and Griffith’s Valuation show that the Coen family lived in The Herd’s Cottage on the Carrantryla Estate. The last members of the family to live there were May, Paddy, and Jack, with Jack remaining in the cottage until his passing in 1994.
Carefully Restored for Modern Stays
The present owners acquired The Herd’s Cottage in the early 2000s and undertook a thoughtful renovation to restore and preserve the cottage while adapting it for modern-day living. Their aim was to retain the traditional charm and story of the original herd’s cottage while creating a welcoming and practical self-catering space for today’s guests.
The result is a cottage that blends old and new beautifully. Guests can enjoy the comfort of modern amenities while still experiencing the warmth, character, and heritage that make The Herd’s Cottage unique. The renovation of the cottage also received part-funded support through a Galway LEADER grant.
A Peaceful Base in the Heart of the West of Ireland
The Herd’s Cottage is ideally situated for guests who want to enjoy the peace of the countryside while still being well connected to the wider region. Located just a short drive from Dunmore town, it offers an excellent base for discovering Galway, Mayo, and the surrounding counties.
The cottage is also conveniently positioned between Knock Airport, approximately 33 minutes away, and Shannon Airport, approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes away. This makes it a suitable and accessible option for both domestic and international visitors seeking a countryside escape in the West of Ireland.
What Makes The Herd’s Cottage Special
The Herd’s Cottage offers guests more than just a place to stay. It offers a peaceful experience shaped by history, nature, and comfort.
Historic cottage with a genuine local story
Peaceful woodland setting near Dunmore
Restored traditional charm with modern comforts
Ideal base for exploring Galway and Mayo
Suitable for couples, families, and small groups
Warm, welcoming, and private countryside stay
What Makes The Herd’s Cottage Special
The Herd’s Cottage offers guests more than just a place to stay. It offers a peaceful experience shaped by history, nature, and comfort.
Historic cottage with a genuine local story
Peaceful woodland setting near Dunmore
Restored traditional charm with modern comforts
Ideal base for exploring Galway and Mayo
Suitable for couples, families, and small groups
Warm, welcoming, and private countryside stay
A Trusted Self-Catering Stay
The Herd’s Cottage is a self-catering accommodation certified by The Irish Self-Catering Federation Quality Assurance Standards, recognised by Fáilte Ireland.
This gives guests added confidence in the quality, comfort, and standards of their stay.
Experience the Charm of The Herd’s Cottage
From its roots in the historic Carrantryla estate to its peaceful setting in the Galway countryside, The Herd’s Cottage offers a stay that is full of warmth, heritage, and comfort. Whether you are here to relax, explore, or simply enjoy time away, we look forward to welcoming you.
Experience the Charm of The Herd’s Cottage
From its roots in the historic Carrantryla estate to its
peaceful setting in the Galway countryside, The Herd’s
Cottage offers a stay that is full of warmth, heritage, and
comfort. Whether you are here to relax, explore, or simply
enjoy time away, we look forward to welcoming you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is check-in and check-out?
Check-in is from 3:00 PM, and check-out is at 11:00 AM. If you require different times, please contact us in advance, and we’ll do our best to accommodate.
Is parking available at the property?
Yes, complimentary parking is available on-site for all guests to ensure convenience and ease during your stay.
A beautifully restored holiday cottage set in a peaceful wooded area just minutes from Dunmore town.
Quick Links
Legal
© 2026. The Herds Cottage. All Rights Reserved.