Step Inside Centuries of History with New Guided Tours of St Laserian’s Cathedral, Old Leighlin This Summer
St Laserian’s Cathedral in Old Leighlin, Carlow’s oldest working building that features architecture from every century since it was built, is now offering guided tours throughout July, August and September. Tours run from 12 to 4 p.m. on selected days.
OPENING/TOUR TIMES: July 3rd-6th, 10th-13th, 17th-20th & 24th-27th(Thurs-Sun, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm).
Dates for August and September will be given at a later date.
Visitors can explore this remarkable cathedral, that has stood for over 800 years on the site of a much earlier monastic settlement. Highlights of the guided tour with local history enthusiast Pádraig Dooley include the striking East Window by Catherine O’Brien, a mysterious 16th-century altar tomb, Ireland’s only known four-seat sedilia, and two baptismal fonts with unique stories. Of immense historical significance is the synod held here in c. 630 which led to the Irish church adopting the Roman calendar in defining the date of Easter each year, a formula still used to this day.
Each tour brings to life the story of St Laserian himself—his Roman journey, founding of the monastery and legendary miracles—as well as the deeply rooted history of the Vigors family, whose presence has shaped the cathedral through the centuries.
The cathedral’s rural location in the tranquil village of Old Leighlin makes it a perfect day out, with the nearby St Laserian’s Holy Well offering an additional place of quiet reflection just 250 metres away. Afterwards head to Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven for a tasty lunch or afternoon tea, a wander around their beautiful Inspirational Gardens or discover their kitchen store, plant area and beautiful boutique. The nearby village of Leighlinbridge
Supported by Carlow County Council under the Festival and Events Scheme, the guided tours of St Laserian’s Cathedral are a wonderful way to explore one of Carlow’s hidden gems.
For further information, visit https://carlowtourism.com/attraction/stlaserianscathedral/ or call 059 913 0411.
Voluntary donation of €3 per person welcome.