Blog
Guides, town profiles and local news for County Monaghan.
Learning to Drive in County Monaghan: Driving Instructors, EDT Lessons and Passing Your Test
EDT driving lessons in Monaghan — what they cost, how to find an ADI instructor, when to book your driving test, and what causes most people to fail.
Car Service, NCT and Tyres in County Monaghan: Finding a Mechanic You Can Trust
What a car service should include, how to pass your NCT first time, tyre costs, and how to find a reliable garage in Monaghan Town, Carrickmacross or Castleblayney.
Replacing Your Oil Boiler in County Monaghan: SEAI Grants, Heat Pumps and What It Actually Costs in 2026
SEAI grants for heat pumps and home energy upgrades in Monaghan — what you're entitled to, what it costs after grants, and who to call to get it done.
Planning Your Wedding in County Monaghan: Venues, Suppliers, Costs and Everything You Need to Know
Castle Leslie, The Hillgrove, the Nuremore — Monaghan's best wedding venues, realistic costs, and local suppliers for every part of your day.
Meet Conor: The Monaghan Town Man Bringing the Autism Community Together
Meet Conor, Monaghan town man, chairperson of the Monaghan Autism Committee and founder of the Monaghan Adult Autistic Social Group, who organises autism-friendly events across the county.
Building a House Extension in County Monaghan: Planning Permission, Costs and Finding the Right Builder
What a house extension costs in Monaghan in 2026, when you need planning permission, and how to find and vet a reliable local builder. Real figures included.
Art Summer Camp in Glaslough: Three Days of Creative Fun for Kids This July
Monaghan artists Trish Redmond and Lynsey McKernan are running a three-day art camp for kids aged 5-12 at Oaklands Community Centre, Glaslough, this July 2026.
Castleblayney & Lough Muckno: Your Complete Guide to South Monaghan's Adventure Capital
Watersports on the county's largest lake, the Nashville of Ireland, Big Tom in bronze, Muckno Mania, and the Castleblayney Outdoor Adventure Centre — your complete guide to Castleblayney and Lough Muckno.
Rossmore Forest Park, Monaghan: The Complete Visitor Guide
320 hectares of woodland, five fishing lakes, the Giant Sculpture Trail, castle ruins, a walled garden, and the best children's playground in Ulster — all free. Everything you need before visiting Rossmore Forest Park.
Things to Do in Clones: Your Practical Visitor Guide to the Town and What's On
The Round Tower, Clones Lace, St Tiernach's Park, the Ulster Canal, the best pubs in west Monaghan — your practical guide to getting the most out of Clones, County Monaghan.
How to Get More Customers for Your Monaghan Business in 2026
A practical guide to growing your Monaghan business in 2026 — covering LEO grants, Trading Online Vouchers, the County Gift Card, local networking, and why a free directory listing is your highest-ROI marketing move.
Heartbreak at Headquarters: Louth's 14 Men End Monaghan's Summer in Croke Park Classic
All-Ireland SFC Quarter-Final match report — Louth 0-27 Monaghan 2-18, Croke Park, 28 June 2026. Monaghan pushed Louth's 14 men to the final whistle in a famous, heartbreaking contest.
Farney Rising: Why Monaghan Are Ready to Make Their Mark Against Mayo on Sunday
Monaghan vs Mayo, All-Ireland SFC Round 1 at St Tiernach's Park, Clones — Sunday 31st May, 4pm, live on RTÉ. A full preview of why Gabriel Bannigan's Farney Army are ready for Andy Moran's Mayo.
Things to Do in Monaghan Town (2026) — Your Complete Local Guide
The complete local guide to Monaghan Town — Rossmore Forest Park, Monaghan County Museum, the Harvest Time Blues Festival, where to eat, shop, and stay in County Monaghan's county town.
Things to Do in Carrickmacross (2026) — Your Complete Local Guide
The complete guide to Carrickmacross, County Monaghan — Courthouse Restaurant (Michelin Bib Gourmand 2026), Carrickmacross Lace, Brehon Brewhouse, Nuremore Estate, where to eat, shop, and stay.
Monaghan Festivals & Events 2026: What's On in County Monaghan
The complete 2026 events calendar for County Monaghan — Harvest Time Blues Festival, Muckno Mania, Patrick Kavanagh Weekend, Flat Lake Festival, Castle Leslie Christmas, and more.
Monaghan's Agri-Food & Industrial Sector: A Complete Guide (2026)
County Monaghan's industrial and agri-food economy explained — Combilift, Monaghan Mushrooms, BioConnect, Moffett Automated Storage, Greenfield Foods, Silver Hill Foods, and the world-class manufacturing base built in rural Ireland.
Scotstown: The Heart of North Monaghan's GAA Country
A guide to Scotstown, County Monaghan — a small village with an outsized GAA legacy, deep republican history, the Scoil Cheoil na Botha trad music festival, and a Main Street of genuine family businesses.
Ballybay: County Monaghan's Market Town in Motion
A guide to Ballybay, County Monaghan — wetlands, a working mart, the Ballybay Food Hub turning kitchen-table ideas into real businesses, and a Town Centre First regeneration plan with real momentum.
Emyvale & Mullan Village: A Local Guide to North Monaghan's Hidden Gem
A guide to Emyvale and Mullan Village, County Monaghan — from a derelict mill village turned global lighting brand to a thriving Main Street on the Derry road.
Inniskeen: Kavanagh Country and One of Monaghan's Most Storied Villages
A guide to Inniskeen, County Monaghan — birthplace of Patrick Kavanagh, home to the Patrick Kavanagh Centre and Trail, Inniskeen Grattans GAA, and centuries of layered history.
Newbliss: The Quiet West Monaghan Village With an International Creative Pulse
A guide to Newbliss, County Monaghan — home to the Tyrone Guthrie Centre at Annaghmakerrig, the Flat Lake Festival, and Hilton Park, a village with remarkable creative heritage.
Your Summer in Monaghan: The Local Events, Venues and Experiences Worth Putting in the Diary for 2026
Muckno Mania, the reborn Nuremore Estate, GAA at St Tiernach's Park, Ballybay Wetlands, and Monaghan's booming food tourism scene — your complete guide to the best of County Monaghan this summer.
Building the Future: How County Monaghan Is Quietly Becoming One of Ireland's Most Enterprising Counties
From M:TEK co-working hubs to the BioConnect agri-food innovation centre and the Clones Digi Hub — County Monaghan is investing in business infrastructure that will shape the next generation. Here's the full picture.
Monaghan's Best Businesses Celebrated at Inaugural Business & Tourism Awards 2026
The inaugural Monaghan Business & Tourism Awards at the Nuremore Estate celebrated over 30 finalists across 12 categories — from Ronnie Wilson's Lifetime Achievement to Muckno Mania's Best Tourism Event. Here's everything that happened and why it matters.
Best Photographers in County Monaghan (2026)
Find the best wedding photographers, newborn portrait studios, and commercial photographers in County Monaghan. From Ken Doyle Photography's 35+ years of wedding mastery to Aisling Duffy Photography's newborn portraiture in Castleblayney — your complete guide.
Green Fingers and Garden Design: The Best Garden Centres and Nurseries in Monaghan
Discover the best garden centres, plant nurseries, and professional landscape designers in County Monaghan. From MN8 Gardens' architectural specimen trees to Nature Works Landscaping's full garden design and construction service — your complete guide.
Safeguarding Your Enterprise: Insurance, Compliance, and Risk Management for Monaghan Businesses
A practical guide to business insurance, health & safety compliance, and enterprise support for SMEs in County Monaghan. Covering GoLo Insurance, TLC Compliance, Monaghan Local Enterprise Office, and key regulatory frameworks every business owner needs.
Stepping Back in Time: A Cultural and Heritage Guide to Historic Clones Town
Explore the heritage of Clones, West Monaghan — from the 10th-century Round Tower and Celtic High Cross to the Clones Lace Museum, Ulster Canal Stores, and the legendary Creighton Hotel. Your complete cultural visitor guide to Clones Town.
Best Bakeries & Cafés in County Monaghan (2026)
Discover the finest artisan bakeries, sourdough specialists, and third-wave coffee shops in County Monaghan. From Matilda's Artisan Bakery in Carrickmacross and Neighbourhood on Glaslough Street to Dinkin's and Maisie B's in Ballybay — your definitive bakery guide.
Best Gyms & Personal Trainers in Monaghan Town (2026)
Find the best gyms, leisure clubs, personal trainers, and sports apparel in County Monaghan. From The Fitness Habit's 70+ weekly classes and Hillgrove's heated pool to Playr-Fit teamwear — your complete fitness guide to County Monaghan.
Exploring Glaslough Village: A Day-Trip Guide to Monaghan's Prettiest Tidy Town
Glaslough is one of Ireland's most beautiful estate villages. Our complete day-trip guide covers the heritage trail, Castle Leslie Estate, Eileen's Tea Rooms, Glaslough Chocolate Company, artisan woodworking, and group transport from across County Monaghan.
The Agri-Tech Powerhouse: Exploring Monaghan's Leading Industrial Businesses
County Monaghan is a global hub for precision engineering, warehouse automation, agri-tech machinery, and heavy manufacturing. Discover the world-class industrial businesses — from Combilift and Moffett Automation to McAree Engineering — driving the county's economy.
Family Fun in Monaghan: Best Indoor and Outdoor Activities for Kids
Planning a family day out in County Monaghan? From GR8 Entertainment's giant soft-play arena and Rossmore's Drumlin Giants to Creggan Country Park and Iontas Theatre — the complete family activities guide for County Monaghan.
Best Solicitors & Accountants in County Monaghan (2026)
Find the best solicitors, accountants, and corporate advisors in County Monaghan. From tax compliance and business structuring to conveyancing, personal injury, and family law — your guide to professional services in Monaghan.
Best Garages & Tyre Centres in County Monaghan (2026)
From NCT preparation and engine diagnostics to laser wheel alignment and emergency puncture repairs — your complete guide to the best garages and tyre centres in Monaghan Town and County Monaghan.
The Ultimate Monaghan Wedding Planning Guide: Venues, Florists, and Boutiques
Planning a wedding in County Monaghan? This step-by-step guide covers bridal boutiques, groomsmen tailoring, premier reception venues, bespoke florists, and luxury spa retreats — everything you need for your perfect Monaghan wedding.
Festivals, Culture, and Community: Unmissable Events in County Monaghan This Year
Your complete guide to County Monaghan's best festivals and cultural events. From the Monaghan Town Country Music Festival and Muckno Mania to the Taste of Monaghan and the Patrick Kavanagh Festival — plan your cultural calendar here.
The Ultimate Christmas Shopping Guide: Independent Monaghan Retailers for Festive Gifts
Skip the online giants this Christmas. County Monaghan's independent retailers offer unique personalised gifts, luxury fashion, artisan chocolates, craft beer, and high-end homeware. Your complete festive shopping guide to Monaghan Town, Carrickmacross, and beyond.
Emergency Plumber & Home Repairs in County Monaghan (2026)
Burst pipe? Broken washing machine? Damaged roof? Our guide to the most reliable emergency plumbers, appliance repair technicians, and roofing contractors in South Monaghan covers everything from Carrickmacross to the Meath border.
Best Day Spas & Wellness in County Monaghan (2026)
Discover County Monaghan's best day spas, advanced skincare clinics, beauty salons, and holistic wellness providers. From the Hillgrove Hotel spa to clinical laser aesthetics in Carrickmacross — your complete self-care guide.
Best Boutique Shopping in County Monaghan (2026)
Discover the best independent boutiques, menswear outfitters, and artisan gift shops in County Monaghan. Your complete insider guide to boutique shopping in Monaghan Town, Carrickmacross, and Ballybay.
Planning a Home Renovation in Monaghan? Trusted Local Trades to Call
Complete guide to home renovation in County Monaghan. From building supplies and tool hire to solar PV, plumbing, and plastering — find the trusted local tradespeople and merchants you need for every phase of your project.
Monaghan's Booming Food Scene: Top Restaurants and Artisan Cafés You Need to Try
County Monaghan's food scene has never been better. From specialty coffee shops and artisan bakeries to award-winning gastropubs and Michelin-recognised restaurants — here is your complete guide to the best places to eat and drink in County Monaghan.
The Definitive Weekend Guide to County Monaghan: A Complete 48-Hour Itinerary
Plan the perfect 48-hour weekend break in County Monaghan. From Rossmore Forest Park and Glaslough village to award-winning restaurants and spa hotels — your complete County Monaghan weekend itinerary.
Local Heroes: The Monaghan Businesses Backing Underage Football, the League, and the Beautiful Game
A gastropub on the Diamond. A heat pump specialist in Castleblayney. A coach hire company in Rockcorry. An electrical wholesaler on Plantation Road. Meet the four local sponsors keeping Monaghan's grassroots sport alive.
From the Farm to the Field: How Monaghan's Agri-Food and Industrial Businesses Are Backing County Sport
Seven million eggs a week, 60 articulated trucks rolling across Europe, and heavy-duty tanks built to last a generation — Greenfield Foods, Maguire International, and Platinum Tanks are the backbone of Monaghan GAA sponsorship.
Made in Monaghan, Known Across the World: The County's Two Most Ambitious Sponsor Companies
One builds robots that work in warehouses on four continents. The other brands the trucks of Ireland's biggest companies. Both are from County Monaghan. Both are backing Monaghan GAA.
Powering the Farney: How a Carrickmacross Solar Company Became the Heartbeat of Monaghan GAA
Activ8 Solar Energies are the main sponsor of Monaghan GAA across all teams — and their story is one of the most remarkable business journeys in the county's history.
The Businesses Behind the Badge: Meet the Sponsors Powering Monaghan GAA and Soccer in 2026
From a solar energy giant in Carrickmacross to a gastropub on Monaghan Town's Diamond — the ten County Monaghan businesses backing GAA and soccer at every level in 2026.
Best Gyms & Personal Trainers in County Monaghan (2026)
Gyms, personal trainers, and fitness studios across Monaghan Town, Carrickmacross, Castleblayney, and Clones — compared by facility, class, and cost.
Best Hair Salons & Barbers in County Monaghan (2026)
Monaghan's best hair salons, beauty rooms, nail bars, and barbers — town by town across Monaghan Town, Carrickmacross, Castleblayney, and Clones.
Best Accountants in County Monaghan (2026)
How to choose the right accountant for your business or personal tax in County Monaghan — what to ask, what to expect, and where to find them.
Glaslough & Castle Leslie: A Guide to County Monaghan's Most Magical Village
Discover Glaslough, County Monaghan — home to Castle Leslie Estate, one of Ireland's most atmospheric castle hotels, and one of Ireland's best-preserved estate villages.
Clones: A Complete Visitor's Guide to County Monaghan's Most Historic Town
Everything you need to know about Clones, County Monaghan — from the round tower and GAA heritage to where to eat, drink, and explore in this fascinating border town.
Best B&Bs & Guesthouses in County Monaghan (2026)
The best B&Bs and guesthouses in County Monaghan — from Carrickmacross to Clones, with locations and what makes each one worth a stay.
County Monaghan for Walkers: Best Trails, Looped Walks & Greenways
Discover the best walking routes in County Monaghan — from forest park trails and lakeside walks to looped routes and the Ulster Canal Greenway. Your complete guide to walking in the Drumlin County.
Why Shopping and Spending Local in County Monaghan Matters
The case for supporting local businesses in County Monaghan — why buying local makes a real difference to the county's economy, communities, and character.
Christmas in County Monaghan: Markets, Events & Festive Things to Do
Make the most of Christmas in County Monaghan — from town Christmas markets and festive events to Christmas shopping, dining, and the magic of Castle Leslie at Christmas.
Best Garden Centres in County Monaghan (2026)
The best garden centres and plant nurseries in County Monaghan — with advice on what grows well in Monaghan's drumlin soil and wet Atlantic climate.
Things to Do in County Monaghan This Summer (2025)
Looking for things to do in County Monaghan this summer? From lakes and walks to festivals and family days out, here's your guide to the best summer activities in the Drumlin County.
Best Plumbers & Electricians in County Monaghan (2026)
How to find, vet, and hire a reliable plumber, electrician, builder, or roofer in County Monaghan — including what to check before any job starts.
Best Wedding Venues in County Monaghan (2026)
Monaghan's best wedding venues — castle estates, hotel ballrooms, and intimate private venues across the county, with capacity and contact details.
Best Pubs in County Monaghan (2026)
The best pubs in County Monaghan — traditional bars, GAA pubs, and live music venues across Monaghan Town, Carrickmacross, Clones, and Castleblayney.
Best Cafés in Monaghan Town (2026)
The best cafés in Monaghan Town in 2026 — from speciality coffee and sourdough to homemade bakes and weekend brunch spots.
Best Restaurants in County Monaghan (2026)
The best restaurants in County Monaghan — from gastropubs on Monaghan Town's Diamond to hidden gems in Carrickmacross and Castleblayney.
A Local's Guide to Carrickmacross, County Monaghan
Discover Carrickmacross — County Monaghan's largest town, home to world-famous lace, great food, and a warm community spirit. Your complete visitor's guide.
Castleblayney Travel Guide: Lakes, History & Local Life
Everything you need to know about Castleblayney, County Monaghan — from Hope Castle and Lough Muckno to where to eat, drink, and explore in this beautiful lakeside town.
Monaghan Town: The Complete Local Guide
Your complete guide to Monaghan Town — things to do, where to eat and drink, local history, shopping, and the best local businesses in the county town.
The Ultimate Guide to County Monaghan
Everything you need to know about County Monaghan — from its towns and villages to its food, culture, history, and local businesses. Your complete guide to the Drumlin County.