The History of Limavady Workhouse - Tour and Talk

What to Expect

Dr Robyn Atcheson leads a special day of programming at Limavady Workhouse Museum, one of the best-preserved workhouses of its kind in Ireland. A guided tour from 3pm to 4.30pm takes visitors through the workhouse complex, including its dormitories and original admission areas, with the route involving the building’s historic staircases and giving a close-up look at how the institution was laid out to separate men, women and children on arrival. From 6pm to 7.30pm, a talk in the Board of Guardians boardroom covers the history of the workhouse system in Ireland more broadly, tracing its origins in the 1838 Poor Law, its role during the Great Famine, and its evolution through the 19th and 20th centuries as attitudes to poverty and welfare changed, with a question and answer session to follow where attendees can raise their own family history questions. Visitors can book the tour, the talk, or both, with a reduced combined rate available for anyone who wants the full day of programming. The on-site Robertsons Community Cafe is open between the two sessions for refreshments, giving a natural break between the physical tour of the building and the more academic evening talk, with further dining options nearby in Limavady town for anyone wanting a proper meal before the 6pm session.

Good to Know

• Saturday 3 October 2026, doors open 2.45pm, tour 3.00pm to 4.30pm, talk 6.00pm to 7.30pm
• Booking required via Eventbrite, with a reduced combined rate for tour and talk together
• The tour involves stairs and is not suitable for those unable to climb them; the talk in the boardroom is fully accessible
• Limavady Workhouse opened in 1842 and later operated as Roe Valley Hospital until the late 1990s
• Free parking is available on site
• Refunds available up to 7 days before the event

Getting There

Limavady Workhouse Museum is on Benevenagh Drive on the edge of Limavady town, with free on-site parking. Limavady town centre and its bus links are a short drive or walk away.