The highest point in County Longford is Corn Hill (also known as Cairn Hill or Carn Clonhugh), standing at 278 meters (912 feet). Located near Drumlish in the northern part of the county, Corn Hill is a modest hill in Longford’s flat, boggy landscape, making it a subtle but achievable destination for hikers and visitors.
- Geological and Cultural Significance: Corn Hill is a low, rounded hill formed from glacial deposits, typical of Longford’s drumlin-dotted terrain, surrounded by the extensive bogs of the Irish Midlands. Its name, possibly derived from Irish Carn Cluain Aodha (“cairn of Hugh’s meadow”), reflects its historical significance, with a prehistoric cairn or burial mound at the summit linking it to Ireland’s ancient past. The hill is also associated with local folklore, including tales of Fionn MacCumhaill, and its prominence in Longford’s flat landscape gives it cultural importance. A telecommunications mast now marks the summit, a modern contrast to its ancient heritage.
- Scenic Beauty: Despite its low elevation, Corn Hill offers surprisingly expansive views over Longford’s green plains, drumlins, and bogs, with the Slieve Bloom Mountains and, on clear days, the distant Wicklow or Sligo hills visible. The surrounding patchwork of fields and hedgerows creates a quintessential Irish rural scene.
Approaching Corn Hill
- Access Points: Corn Hill is best accessed from the R198 road near Drumlish, about 10km north of Longford town. The primary starting point is a small lay-by or roadside parking area near Esker South (Grid Ref: N 143 884), close to the hill’s base. An alternative approach is from the Moyne or Ballinamuck side, using minor roads like the L1032. Public transport is limited, with the nearest bus routes (e.g., Bus Éireann to Drumlish) requiring a short drive or taxi to the trailhead. A car is recommended for access.
Trail Options:
- Esker South Route: The most direct route is a 3–5km round-trip hike (1–1.5 hours) starting near the R198 at Esker South. Hikers follow a quiet country lane or farm track through private farmland, ascending gently to the summit. The path is not formally marked, often crossing grassy fields or boggy patches, and may require permission from local landowners, as the hill is on private land. The summit is marked by a cairn and a telecommunications mast. This route is easy, suitable for beginners, though muddy conditions are common.
- Moyne/Ballinamuck Route: A slightly longer 5–7km round-trip hike (1.5–2 hours) starts from minor roads near Moyne or Ballinamuck, approaching from the north or east. This route follows similar farm tracks and fields, offering a more scenic path through Longford’s countryside. It also crosses private land, so respect for property is essential. The ascent remains gentle, with the mast as a clear landmark.
- Extended Routes: There are no formal extended routes due to Corn Hill’s isolation, but hikers can explore nearby drumlins or combine the hike with a visit to the Cairn Hill Forest Walk, a short trail near the summit. The Midlands Walking Trails network may offer future connections but is not currently linked.
- Navigation and Preparation: Corn Hill’s routes lack waymarking, and the summit is unassuming, so hikers should carry a map (Ordnance Survey Ireland, Discovery Series Sheet 34), compass, or GPS to confirm the correct hill among nearby drumlins. Waterproof boots and rain gear are essential due to Longford’s damp, boggy terrain and frequent rain. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities. Dogs are allowed but must be leashed to avoid disturbing livestock, common in the area. Always seek landowner permission if crossing private fields, and check weather forecasts, as fog or rain can reduce visibility in this low-lying region.
Hiking Experience:
- The Esker South route is a short, gentle hike, ideal for beginners or families. The ascent crosses farmland and grassy slopes, with minimal elevation gain. The lack of a clear path requires basic navigation, but the telecommunications mast makes the summit easy to spot.
- The Moyne/Ballinamuck route is similar but offers more varied views of Longford’s drumlins and bogs. Both routes are low-intensity, though muddy patches can slow progress after rain.
- The summit is a grassy mound with a prehistoric cairn and telecommunications mast, offering a quiet, understated experience. Its low height and rural setting mean fewer crowds than Ireland’s taller peaks, providing a peaceful outing.
- Views and Photography: On clear days, the summit offers sweeping views over Longford’s flat countryside, with drumlins, bogs, and farmland creating a patchwork effect. The Slieve Bloom Mountains to the south and distant ranges like the Wicklows or Sligo hills may be visible. The open landscape is ideal for photography, especially at sunset when the fields glow. The cairn adds historical interest to photos, though the mast is less picturesque.
- Wildlife and Nature: Corn Hill is surrounded by farmland and bog, supporting lowland species like hares, foxes, and birds such as skylarks, meadow pipits, and kestrels. Nearby bogs feature heather, sphagnum moss, and bog cotton, while hedgerows host wildflowers like primroses in spring. Grazing sheep and cattle emphasize the area’s agricultural character.
- Cultural and Historical Context: Corn Hill’s cairn ties it to Ireland’s prehistoric past, possibly a Bronze Age burial site. The hill is near Ballinamuck, site of a 1798 Rebellion battle, adding historical significance. Longford’s heritage is rooted in its bogs and monastic sites, with nearby attractions like Ardagh Village (linked to St. Mel) or Corlea Trackway, an Iron Age bog road. Local folklore connects the hill to the Fianna, enhancing its mystique.
- Amenities: There are no facilities at the trailhead, so hikers must be self-sufficient. Drumlish (5km) has small shops and pubs like The Three Counties, while Longford town (10km) offers cafés, restaurants (e.g., Torc Café), and accommodation. Longford is a good base for supplies or lodging.
- Seasonal Considerations: Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) offer mild weather (8–15°C / 46–59°F) and vibrant scenery, with wildflowers or autumn hues. Summer (June–August) is warmest (15–20°C / 59–68°F) but wetter, with muddier trails. Winter (November–March) brings boggy conditions and occasional frost, though snow is rare. Longford’s 1,200–1,400 annual sunshine hours allow for decent visibility, but rain is frequent, so waterproof gear is essential.
- Guided Tours: Guided hikes are uncommon for Corn Hill due to its low profile, but local walking groups or operators via visitlongford.ie may include it in broader Midlands tours. These can simplify access across private land and provide historical context.
- Safety: The hike is low-risk, but crossing private land requires respect for property (close gates, avoid livestock). Fog or rain can make navigation tricky, so inform someone of your plans. Mobile signal is generally good, but offline maps are recommended for reliability.
- Accessibility: Corn Hill is one of Ireland’s easiest county high points, suitable for beginners due to its low elevation and gentle slopes. However, muddy tracks and private land access may limit wheelchair or stroller use.
Corn Hill offers a short, accessible hike in County Longford, ideal for those seeking a quiet escape in the Irish Midlands. Its gentle trails, rural views, and prehistoric cairn provide a low-key but rewarding experience, with nearby historical sites like Ballinamuck and Corlea enhancing a visit. While modest compared to Ireland’s taller peaks, Corn Hill’s charm lies in its simplicity and solitude. For more details, visit visitlongford.ie or consult Kieron Gibbons’ Ireland’s County High Points – A Walking Guide.
Highest point in county
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County Longford:
Ireland’s county Longford offers a peaceful blend of history and countryside, with the Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre showcasing an ancient Iron Age road. The county’s St Mel’s Cathedral in Longford town provides architectural beauty, while the River Inny offers opportunities for kayaking and fishing. Other attractions include the rolling farmlands and historic Ardagh village. Longford is Ireland’s fourth smallest county by size and second smallest by population (46,751). Population peaked at 115,491 in 1841 and reached its lowest point, 28,250 in 1971. In terms of hospitality, Longford is Ireland’s 32nd most visited and Ireland’s least visited tourist county with around 22,000 international visitors per year.
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