Guided Tours of St Laserian's Medieval Cathedral, Old Leighlin - Heritage Week

What to Expect

St Laserian’s Cathedral in Old Leighlin is one of the most historically significant sites in County Carlow, with over 1,400 years of continuous Christian service. During National Heritage Week (15-23 August 2026), knowledgeable guides lead tours of the cathedral from noon to 4:00pm each day.

The tours take in the cryptic crypt, the fortress-style architecture, the synod of 630AD (where Easter time in Ireland was first formally calculated), the sedilia stonework, beautiful stained glass windows, and the Barrow Valley setting. Old Leighlin is one of the few ecclesiastical villages remaining in Ireland.

Good to Know

• Dates: Daily 15 to 23 August 2026 during National Heritage Week.

• Tours run 12:00pm to 4:00pm.

• Free to attend.

• No booking required; arrive at the cathedral.

• The cathedral also hosts the annual ecumenical service on St Laserian’s Day (18 April each year) - outside this window.

Getting There

Old Leighlin is approximately 12km south of Carlow town, off the N9 near Leighlinbridge. The cathedral is the focal point of the small village and is clearly signposted.