Watch: Keeping the pipe lit in Knockcroghery

Once a familiar companion in Irish homes and a vital source of employment in the village of Knockcroghery, the traditional Irish clay pipe has found a new lease of life as a celebrated part of the area’s cultural heritage.

Production of clay pipes in Knockcroghery came to an abrupt end in 1921, when the village was burned during the War of Independence. Today, however, that 300-year tradition is preserved and reimagined at the Claypipe Visitor Centre, a free attraction that brings local history and craftsmanship to life for visitors of all ages.

On arrival, visitors are welcomed by Ethel Kelly and her daughter Sarah, whose passion and deep knowledge of Irish heritage are evident throughout the centre. Guests can watch a detailed demonstration of the pipe-making process, from a soft lump of clay to a finished piece of functional art, offering a rare insight into a once-thriving craft.

The centre also houses an impressive collection of unique and vintage clay pipes, each with its own distinctive design. Many of the pipes feature symbols that were historically used to express personal identity. As Ethel explains, these markings could indicate where a person was from, their political views or personal interests. One particularly well-preserved example bears a Home Rule symbol, reflecting the political sentiments of its time.

Beyond clay pipes, the centre showcases other aspects of Irish cultural history. Traditional Irish writing known as Ogham, dating back as far as 400 AD, is on display. Originally carved on stone, the script is presented here painted on paper by the mother-and-daughter duo in their on-site studio. Ogham is read from bottom to top along a central line, with each mark representing a letter.

The Claypipe Visitor Centre is also home to Bog Buddies, a creative enterprise founded in 2009 that transforms peat into small symbolic works of art, such as hearts and houses. The pieces have proven especially popular with the Irish diaspora, with orders regularly sent to countries including Australia and the United States. Previously featured on RTÉ’s Home of the Year, the collection has gained wide recognition, with Ethel citing “The Lovebirds” as her personal favourite.

“We are always creating, always,” she said.

As the centre continues to evolve, Ethel and Sarah remain committed to ensuring that long-standing Irish traditions — from clay pipe making to Ogham writing — are not forgotten, but instead celebrated and shared with new generations.

The Claypipe Visitor Centre is open from 10am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and from 11am to 1pm on Saturdays.