Fore Abbey

In a tranquil, green valley in the village of Fore, about a 30 minute drive from Mullingar in County Westmeath, visitors can see the site where St Fechin founded a Christian monastery in the 7th century. It’s believed that before his death up to 300 monks lived in the community. Later, the monastery was set fire twelve times.

Among the remains, visitors can see St Fechin’s Church, built about 900AD. They will also find one of the 18 Fore Wayside Crosses, which are spread out over 10km on roadways and in fields.

The Seven Wonders of Fore include the monastery in the bog, the mill without a race, the water that flows uphill, the tree that has three branches, the tree that won’t burn, the water that won’t boil, the anchorite in a stone and the stone/lintel raised by St Fechin’s prayers.

Visitors can also explore the beautiful and historic landscape of Fore Village on St Feichin’s Way, a 3km looped walk. The trail allows walkers to explore this early Christian settlement and take in other attractions such as a fairy village and woodlands.

Car parking facilities are available for visitors and the Fore Abbey Coffee shop provides refreshments and home baked goodies.