Historically it has been the gateway to the West. Dillon House on the Square was the ancestral home of John Blake, John & James Dillon, major figures in Irish political life. It is now the headquarters of the Western Development Commission. Beside it is the Headquarters and Administrative Offices of The Border,Midland and Western Region. In keeping with the whole area which is famed for the richness of its archaelogical and historical heritage, St. Nathy's College, now a large, very modern Secondary School, is built around a British Military Barracks dating to 1798. Situated in a river valley and surrounded by hills with captivating views it has proved to be the inspiration for a large and vibrant colony of artists.

As you approach Ballaghaderreen from the east, you pass the home of The First President of Ireland, Dr. Douglas Hyde, after whom a very successful annual Conference on Irish History is held together with a School of Traditional Irish Music,Song & Dance and from the front of the Hyde Interpretive Centre one gets their first view of the scenery and the landscape that has inspired generations of great Irish people.

With the friendliest of people, excellent food and accommodation together with the abundance of natural leisure facilities Ballaghaderreen is a place to visit and linger.