Oliver Goldsmith was a world-renowned essayist, novelist, poet, and playwright,
who was born in 1728 and spent his early life in Lissoy, County Westmeath.
Much of Goldsmith’s work drew inspiration from the landscape and landmarks from
which he originated, within a landscape that has a wealth of historical,
archaeological, and architectural features. This includes The Three Jolly Pigeons,
Lissoy Parsonage, The Old School House, The Busy Mill, “The Decent Church” (St
Canice’s) at Kilkenny West, The Hawthorn Bush, and The Ale House.
The Goldsmith Literary Festival Committee have completed a new audio guide that
connects and interprets the sites associated with Oliver Goldsmith. The group
secured funding from The Heritage Council for this project.
Listen to and enjoy the Heritage and Literary Audio Guide here:
- The 3 Jolly Pigeons
- The Old Schoolhouse and the Busy Mill
- Lissoy Parsonage
- Kilkenny West Church
- The Hawthorn Bush
- Ballymahon
If you would like to visit the sites mentioned in this audio guide, here is a map
showing the locations:
Parking is available at the Three Jolly Pigeons Pub, marked no.1 on the above map.
Please be aware that the N55 is a very busy road, so take care when visiting. Please
also remember to respect the countryside and Leave no Trace.
To learn more about Goldsmith’s literary genius and extensive legacy, why not attend
the an annual Goldsmith International Literary Festival, featuring renowned critics,
politicians, poets, commentators and academics, celebrating literary heritage and
culture in a unique and inspiring way.
