Day eight of the Harrington family’s Great Aviva Road Trip took them from Carrick-on-Shannon to a luxurious stay at Lough Rynn Castle in County Leitrim, while exploring the rich heritage of nearby Longford. Travelling in their Citroën C5 Aircross MHEV Plus Pack, with car insurance for an electric vehicle provided by Aviva, the family set off for a day blending history, learning, and relaxation.
Stepping into Luxury at Lough Rynn Castle
The family arrived at Lough Rynn Castle, a stunning estate renowned for its elegant gardens, sculptures, and tranquil water features. Joseph set off for an early morning run around the grounds, while Chelsey and the children enjoyed a peaceful walk, admiring the carefully maintained plants, trees, and artistic details throughout the estate.
Their interconnecting room even featured a Jacuzzi. A warm welcome from the castle staff, who personally brought their bags to the room, set the tone for a truly indulgent stay. Later in the evening, the castle also served as the grand setting for their family dinner, rounding off the experience in style.
Discovering Irish Heritage at the Maria Edgeworth Centre
The main activity for the day was a visit to the Maria Edgeworth Centre in Edgeworthstown, County Longford, a town named in honour of the renowned writer and pioneer of education. The family learned about Maria Edgeworth’s remarkable life, her contributions to Irish literature, and her progressive work in developing early school curricula that championed education for all children at a time when it was far from universal.
Interactive exhibits made the visit especially engaging for Callum and Zoe. Callum enjoyed listening to stories through an audio device, while Zoe delighted in answering quiz questions scattered throughout the displays, helping her learn in a fun and interactive way.
The museum also showcased historical items such as school artefacts and period pieces, complemented by a mobile guide that provided numbered insights into significant figures and events. Their guide enriched the experience further with fascinating anecdotes, including a letter from Kensington Palace recognising the importance of the centre. These personal touches made the visit even more memorable for the family.
Evening Reflections and Castle Comforts
After an immersive morning at the Maria Edgeworth Centre, the Harringtons returned to Lough Rynn Castle. The children enjoyed a short walk around the grounds while the family prepared for dinner, reflecting on a day of history, learning, and exploration.
The Harringtons savoured an unforgettable dinner at the castle, with Joseph enjoying the fish, Chelsey enjoying the beef, and the children tucked into their chicken goujons clearing every plate. Attentive service and a welcoming atmosphere made the evening a special occasion for all.
With their Citroën C5 Aircross MHEV Plus Pack, protected by Aviva’s comprehensive car insurance, the Harringtons were ready for another adventure. The next day would take them to County Louth, where visits to the Carlingford Oyster Company and Carlingford Adventure Centre promised more family fun and memorable Irish experiences.
