Slieve Aughty Riding Centre

Weekend in the Hills; Festival of Traditional Crafts
2024-07-13 09:00 - 18:00, 2024-07-13 09:15 - 2024-07-14 17:30, 2024-07-13 10:00 - 18:00, 2024-09-28 09:00 - 18:00, 2024-09-28 09:15 - 2024-09-29 17:30, 2024-09-28 10:00 - 18:00 UTC | Slieve Aughty Centre, Kylebrack West Kylebrack West Galway Loughrea H62DX77 Ireland, Loughrea, Galway, H62DX77, Ireland
During this weekend, we offer introductory courses in a wide variety of Traditional skills. The courses are taught by experienced and dedicated tutors at Slieve Aughty Centre, an eco-friendly, organic certified venue in Co. Galway.
2024 Dates:
May 4th and 5th
July 13th and 14th
September 28th and 29th
Visit: www.celtnet.org for course information and visit the booking page to see what courses are running in 2024.
CHECK OUT THE NEW COURSES FOR CHILDREN, AGED 6 YEARS +
All tickets must be booked in advance Go HERE.
€145/adult, €85/child for two day courses. Please note that a small materials fee is owed to the tutor of the course. Please see the course descriptions on the website Celtnet.org for more information.
Accommodation and meals are available at Slieve Aughty Centre, also known as The Three Towers Eco House & Organic Kitchen. Check out www.slieveaughtycentre.com to view the venue and email info@slieveaughtycentre.com for booking information.

Foraging Walk and Talk at Slieve Aughty Centre
2024-08-09 10:00 - 18:00, 2024-08-11 10:00 - 12:48, 2024-08-11 10:00 - 18:00, 2024-09-06 10:00 - 18:00, 2024-09-08 10:00 - 12:48, 2024-09-08 10:00 - 18:00, 2024-10-13 10:00 - 13:00, 2024-10-13 10:00 - 18:00 and 2 more dates
Come enjoy a leisurely morning adventure meeting the local hedgerow plants with me, Olwyn Williams. Learn how to safely identify and harvest these common plants, and explore the food and medicinal uses of these wonderful wild Spring offerings – greens, fresh shoots and cleansing tonic plants. You might even change your perspective on ‘weeds’! Suitable for beginner foragers and non-beginners, gardeners, foodies, and nature lovers alike.
Tea/coffee and a scone included in the price, plus tasters of some foraged goodies at the end of the walk. Suitable for adults and children 8yrs+, €35/€20 respectively, €15 deposit per participant to book your place, the remainder is payable on the day. Please let me know if you suffer from any food allergies or sensitivities.
Be advised that you will receive an email a few days before the date of the walk with details of meeting points etc, please make sure you have access to the email address you provide to make this booking. It is advisable to save my email address, wildyogawitholwyn@gmail.com, to ensure no emails end up in your spam folder. If you do not use email, please make sure you contact me with a phone number in advance.
Feel free to follow me on facebook @Foraging and Yoga with Olwyn and instagram @olwyn_williams_foraging_yoga to see what I get up to in my kitchen and to be informed of other events. You can also join my mailing list here. I am also available for private bookings, which can be tailored to your individual/group needs.
Cancellation policy: Deposits are non-refundable but can be used against future workshops, walks or other events taking place within a year from the time of purchase. Deposits are non-transferable, i.e they can only be used by the buyer. In the event that the walk is cancelled or the date changed due to severe weather warnings etc, I will offer an alternative date or a voucher to be used at a future event with me.

To Book ; Click here

Why not make a day of it and indulge in a delicious lunch at the Slieve Aughty Centre after the walk?

Wild Food Cooking
2025-02-27 10:00 - 15:00
Learn how to use wild foods in your kitchen!
Wondering how to cook Spring nettles into a tasty dish? Or how to make sloes palatable? Come and spend the morning with forager and wild food specialist Olwyn Williams and master some simple, healthy recipes that you can easily replicate with a variety of wild plants, harnessing the superior nutritional value of wild plants to support your wellbeing.
We will make seeded sourdough crackers, nettle and seaweed pesto and a rose hip infused vinegar or honey and learn about the nutritional value of the wild ingredients. The workshop will also cover the basics of foraging safety, respectful harvesting practices, and an introduction to preservation techniques.
The workshop will close with the sharing of a delicious lunch where you will feast on your own creations and sample other wild food products made by Olwyn. You will leave inspired and empowered to support your health with seasonal wild food nutrition. And you can take home your very own sourdough starter too!
Recipes will be included and there will be time for all your curious questions. Contact Olwyn on 087 9047553 to find out if this workshop would be a good fit for you.

Click here to find and book Wild Food Cooking with Guest Tutor Olwyn Williams

St. Patrick’s Day Escape.. Ditch the Chaos, Embrace the Countryside!!
2025-03-17 15:00 - 2025-03-18 12:00
This St. Patrick’s Day, why battle city crowds when you can trade the madness for fresh air, great food, and quality time with loved ones? Pack up the family and head to the countryside for a one-night getaway filled with fun, flavor, and a touch of adventure, all at 20% off!
Dates: 17th of March
Where: Slieve Aughty Centre
Cost: €250 (2 adults and 2 children)
What’s in the Pot of Gold?

1-night stay in fabulous accommodation.
A scrumptious dinner for the whole family, crafted with fresh, local ingredients.
A bottle of wine (because parents deserve a treat too).
Scenic walks to stretch your legs and soak in the beauty of nature.
Say hi to our adorable farm animals, they’re waiting to meet you!
Optional horseback riding available (book ahead and channel your inner equestrian).

Leave the noise behind and make St. Patrick’s Day a memory for the whole family to treasure. Whether you’re savoring delicious food, exploring the great outdoors, or just soaking up the serenity, this escape is guaranteed to hit the jackpot.
Grab your family and book your escape today! This is one holiday you won’t want to miss.

Click here to find and book St. Patrick’s Day Escape.. Ditch the Chaos, Embrace the Countryside!!

Friday Night Pizza Party
2025-04-11 18:00 - 2025-09-26 23:30
Join us every Friday from 6 PM till late at Slieve Aughty Centre for a delicious evening of freshly made pizza with the best ingredients!
Enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with great food and good company.
Bring your friends and family for a perfect Friday night treat—see you there!

Click here to find and book Friday Night Pizza Party

Horsemanship and Traditional Crafts Retreat 2025
2025-05-05 12:00 - 2025-05-12 14:00
Stay in our luxury rooms, connect with nature through horses, enjoy nutritious food, and create a special handcrafted item to take home.
What more could you wish for?
Don’t miss this unique experience in a beautiful, tranquil setting, learning from professionals who are truly passionate about what they do. Our craft workshops are lively and filled with people enjoying the weekend. Combined with horses and the stunning surroundings, they create a dream experience you’ll want to repeat every year.
Start the week with horsemanship sessions offering a range of experiences from bareback riding to ground and mounted work. You’ll also enjoy talks on horse communication techniques and equine therapy. Each session is designed to deepen your connection with the horses and enhance your personal growth, setting a tone of relaxation and a feeling of stability and calm.
Towards the end of the week, choose a two-day workshop from options such as silver jewellery making, basket weaving, bushcraft, leatherwork, or drum making.
This popular weekend adds the final touch, allowing you to meet lovely people from all walks of life, bring home a wonderful experience, and create something beautiful.
Be sure to leave room in your suitcase!
This exclusive holiday is available to book only 3 weeks a year. However, if you have a group, feel free to enquire about a time that works for everyone.
Available Dates:

5th to 12th May
30th June to 7th July
22nd to 29th September

Contact for Pricing

Please email us for more info and prices:
info@slieveaughtycentre.com
https://slieveaughtycentre.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Basket-Weaving.mp4

Foraging Walk and Talk at Slieve Aughty Centre
2025-06-29 10:00 - 14:30, 2025-08-03 10:00 - 14:30
Adult : €50

Kids: €30

Come enjoy a leisurely morning adventure meeting the local hedgerow plants with me, Olwyn Williams. Learn how to safely identify and harvest these common plants, and explore the food and medicinal uses of these wonderful wild Spring offerings – greens, fresh shoots and cleansing tonic plants. You might even change your perspective on ‘weeds’! Suitable for beginner foragers and non-beginners, gardeners, foodies, and nature lovers alike.
Tea/coffee and a scone included in the price, plus tasters of some foraged goodies at the end of the walk. Suitable for adults and children 8yrs+, €50/€30 respectively, €15 deposit per participant to book your place, the remainder is payable on the day. Please let me know if you suffer from any food allergies or sensitivities.
Be advised that you will receive an email a few days before the date of the walk with details of meeting points etc, please make sure you have access to the email address you provide to make this booking. It is advisable to save my email address, wildyogawitholwyn@gmail.com, to ensure no emails end up in your spam folder. If you do not use email, please make sure you contact me with a phone number in advance.
Feel free to follow me on facebook @Foraging and Yoga with Olwyn and instagram @olwyn_williams_foraging_yoga to see what I get up to in my kitchen and to be informed of other events. You can also join my mailing list here. I am also available for private bookings, which can be tailored to your individual/group needs.
Cancellation policy: Deposits are non-refundable but can be used against future workshops, walks or other events taking place within a year from the time of purchase. Deposits are non-transferable, i.e they can only be used by the buyer. In the event that the walk is cancelled or the date changed due to severe weather warnings etc, I will offer an alternative date or a voucher to be used at a future event with me.

To Book : Click here

Why not make a day of it and indulge in a delicious lunch at the Slieve Aughty Centre after the walk?

Howl-O-Ween Festival 2025
2025-10-25 12:00 - 2025-10-26 16:00
Spooktacular Halloween Festival 2025
Join us this October for a fang-tastic celebration at Slieve Aughty Centre, where Halloween magic comes to life with exciting activities for children of all ages!
New Themed Scary Rooms:
Step into the stables for eerie story readings. Children will get a sneak peek through a curtain into spine-chilling scenes that are sure to set their imaginations ablaze!
Scary Face Painting:
Transform into your favourite Halloween character with our spooky face-painting booth. Add a creative flair to your festival look!
Cosy Fireside Fun:
Gather ’round the warm, crackling fires to share spooky tales and warm your hands, it’s the perfect way to embrace the autumn chill.
Self-Guided Nature Walk:
Embark on an enchanting stroll to the Enchanted Forest, where spooky surprises await you.
Pony Games Ride:
Add an extra dash of fun with a pony game ride! Balance an eyeball on a spoon and conquer other quirky challenges in a thrilling 10-minute adventure—who can resist?
Delicious Treats Await:
Satisfy your hunger in our café, where we’re serving up a scrumptious menu of lunch specials, delightful treats, steaming coffees, and rich hot chocolates to warm your belly.
We invite you to experience the Halloween spirit like never before at Slieve Aughty Centre. This year, we’re brewing up fresh delights and renewing our offerings for an unforgettable celebration!
Entry Fee:
– Children (2-16 yrs): €15
– Adults and older teens: €5
– Babies & carers: FREE
– Arena Pony rides (ages 4-12): Included in entry fee!
– Groups of 10 children or more receive a 10% discount!
Festival Hours:
Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th and
Wednesday 29th to Friday 31st of October from 12 PM to 4 PM.
Pony rides will run from 1 PM to 4 PM, and workshops and face painting will be available throughout festival hours.
Important Reminders:
Please ensure all children are supervised by an adult at all times, consider carpooling where possible, and park responsibly.
We can’t wait to see all your festive faces for a Halloween extravaganza filled with fun, frights, and fantastic memories! 🎃👻
Click here to find and book Howl-O-Ween Festival

Indoor Christmas Market
2025-12-14 11:00 - 16:00
Visit our annual Christmas Market – located indoors!

Get ready to step into a winter wonderland! Join us on
Sunday, December 14th for our annual Christmas Market — filled with holiday cheer, local crafts, delicious treats, twinkling lights, and festive music.
When: Sunday, December 14thWhere: Slieve Aughty Centre, H62 DX77What to expect: Handmade gifts, warm drinks, festive music, and more!
Bring your friends, family, and festive spirit — this is one holiday tradition you won’t want to miss.

Vision board workshop
2026-01-31 11:00 - 15:00
Create Your 2026 Vision!
Join us for a Vision Board Workshop on January 31st, 2026 from 11 AM – 3 PM.
Let your creativity flow, set your intentions for the year, and manifest your dreams—and norish your body with a delicious organic lunch.
Price: €60 (includes lunch)A fun, inspiring, and hands-on experience to kickstart your year!
Reserve your spot today and start 2026 with clarity and inspiration!
Use the payment link to pay €60 and include your name along with the workshop title and date.

Spring Wreath Making Workshop
2026-03-22 12:00 - 15:00
Using natural foliage from the garden and hedgerows, you’ll come together to create a Spring wreath.
You’ll be guided through each step by our experienced in-house florist, Lisa, who will ensure you take home a gorgeous piece to adorn your door all season and beyond.

Here’s what you can expect during the session:

Foliage Selection: Lisa will guide you in choosing fresh greenery and accent pieces that will work beautifully together. You’ll gather different textures and shades of green, pops of pink and yellow, and other seasonal elements found in the garden.
Wreath Frame Preparation: Using a sturdy base, you’ll learn how to attach foliage securely, ensuring your wreath maintains its shape and lasts throughout the season.
Layering Techniques: Lisa will show you techniques for layering different types of foliage to create a balanced and lush wreath.
Finishing Touches: Finally, you’ll add any finishing touches, such as ribbons, bows, or small ornaments, making each wreath a unique, custom piece for your door.

With Lisa’s expertise, you’ll leave with a wreath that’s not only stunning but also durable—something that will bring joy and beauty to your home all season long.
Please note that spaces are limited and must be booked in advance. Payment in full is due at time of booking and is non-refundable.
Imortant Information
This workshop will take place both indoors and outdoors. Layered clothing, warm boots and a rain coat are advised.
Click here to find and book Wreath Making Workshop (12pm to 3pm)

Easter Festival
2026-03-28 12:00 - 2026-04-12 17:00
Our Easter Festival blooms with the spirit of spring, renewal, joy, and togetherness! Laughter fills the air as families wander through the Enchanted Forest and children trot on ponies, their faces painted like bright spring flowers. The craft room buzzes with creativity, and the gentle farm animals bring soft, warm moments of connection. Spring’s promise is everywhere, from the budding plants in the organic garden to the playful games and riverside walks. With silly costumes and the simple joy of being outdoors, our festival is a fresh start, just like the season itself!
Please note that the Enchanted Forest is closed for renovations. The fairies are very busy making essential changes and assure us it will reopen soon!
Please arrive at noon. Closing at 5 daily, entry is €20 per child, €5 per adult and includes

Ride a pony in the arena (Monday to Friday)
Ride a pony down the lane (Saturday and Sunday)
Visit the craft room to make and do
Get your face painted
Pet the ponies and other farm animals
Visit the nature hut
Spend quality time playing family games
Play on the playground
Dress up in a silly costume
Go for a walk to the river or native woodlands
Stroll through the organic garden
Sweet bag for each child after completing a nature quiz

Pizza Party Fridays are back! Enjoy hot-stone-baked pizzas fresh from our clay oven in our Italian-style garden every Friday evening from 6-8pm.
The cafe will be open throughout the festival with specials, pancakes, sweet treats, great coffees, lunches and much more. There is something on the menu for everyone.

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Join Slieve Aughty any day during the Easter holidays and capture the joy of spring
Please Note: “If you’re bringing toddlers or infants under 4 years old, please mention it in the comments section at checkout.”
Click here to find and book Easter Festival 2026

Monthly Ride Out - May
2026-05-03 12:30 - 15:00
May Monthly Ride Out – May 3rd
Join us on the first Sunday of every month for our friendly Monthly Ride Out at Slieve Aughty Centre!
Date: Sunday, May 3rd (and the first Sunday of each month thereafter)Ride Time: Setting off at 1:00pm sharpAfter the Ride: Enjoy warming soup and bread back at the centre around 3:00pm
Riders must be confident and capable in walk, trot, and canter. Jumping will be optional.
Cost:

€25 per adult (with own horse or pony)
€15 per child (with own horse or pony)
A very limited number of horses and ponies are available to hire for €60 — early booking is essential! Please contact us directly about horse hire info@slieveaughtycentre.com.

Come along for a great afternoon of riding, fresh air, and good company!
Click here to find and book Monthly Ride Out

Mushroom Foraging with Edward Blain
2026-09-06 11:00 - 17:00
Edward has been gathering edible mushrooms for 18 years. He is a self-taught mycologist with more than 14 years of professional experience collecting mushrooms for restaurants and farmers markets in England, the United States and Ireland.
Edward has a passion for the foods our land provides. His keen devotion to native and naturalised wild foods—tending, cultivating, and caring for them—has led him to work on various land restoration and wild plant regeneration projects.
Edward will instil in you a respect for the forest and its inhabitants whilst teaching you to safely identify edible mushrooms as well as the poisonous ones to avoid.
Learn how to gather, clean, prepare, cook and preserve wild edible mushrooms and you will never forget a magic aspect of our native forests.
Click here to find and book Mushroom Foraging Workshop
