Guide · 2017-09-29 · reels dating from 1848, rods, game licences, traps, hatching pens, boats,...

The MidlandsIreland.ie brand promotes awareness of the Midland Region across four pillars of Living, Learning, Tourism and Enterprise. MidlandsIreland.ie Gateway to Tourism has produced this digital guide to the Midland Region, as part of suite of initiatives in line with the adopted Brand Management Strategy 2011-2016. The guide has been produced in collaboration with public and private service providers based in the region. MidlandsIreland.ie would like to acknowledge and thank those that helped with research, experiences and images. The guide contains 11 sections which cover, Angling, Festivals, Golf, Walking, Creative Community, Our Past – Our Pleasure, Active Midlands, Towns and Villages, Driving Tours, Eating Out and Accommodation.

The guide showcases the wonderful natural assets of the Midlands, celebrates our culture and heritage and invites you to discover our beautiful region. All sections are available for download on the MidlandsIreland.ie

Content:Images and text have been provided courtesy of Áras an Mhuilinn, Athlone Art & Heritage Limited, Athlone, Institute of Technology, Ballyfin Demense, Belvedere House, Gardens & Park, Bord na Mona, CORE, Failte Ireland, Lakelands & Inland Waterways, Laois Local Authorities, Laois Sports Partnership, Laois Tourism, Longford Local Authorities, Longford Tourism, Mullingar Arts Centre, Offaly Local Authorities, Westmeath Local Authorities, Inland Fisheries Ireland, Kilbeggan Distillery, Kilbeggan Racecourse, Office of Public Works, Swan Creations, The Gardens at Ballintubbert, The Heritage at Killenard, Waterways Ireland and the Wineport Lodge. Individual contributions include the work of James Fraher, Kevin Byrne, Andy Mason, Kevin Monaghan, John McCauley and Tommy Reynolds.

Disclaimer:While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy in the information supplied no responsibility can be accepted for any error, omission or misinterpretation of this information. Where such are brought to our attention future guides will be amended accordingly.

Our PastOur Pleasure

07

07 Our PastOur Pleasure

2

Laois

Heritage

Abbeyleix Heritage Houseabbeyleix, County laois+353 (0)57 8731653 [email protected] www.laois.local.ie/abbeyleix

Housed in the historic north boys’ school, the museum at Heritage House will transport you back in time allowing you to journey with the pre-Christian warring tribes of laois, witnessing their conversion to Christianity and the rise of monastic Laois. Learn of the Norman influence, the suppression of the monasteries at the hands of Henry VIII and our progress through plantations, the influence of the landlords and our brush with the industrial revolution. learn how an enterprising landlord created much needed work for women and in a landlocked county exported carpets worldwide even carpeting the staterooms of the ill-fated titanic.

Donaghmore Famine Workshouse MuseumDonaghamore, Portlaoise, County laois+ 353 (0)505 46212/44196 [email protected] www.donaghmoremuseum.com

this workhouse museum is a unique attraction in Ireland and aims to tell the story of the families who lived and died within the workhouse walls during and after the Great Famine. the museum is housed in a restored workhouse originally built in the early 1850s. as a result of the great famine of 1845-1849 about 1,200 people, or 10% of the population of the area, were forced to seek refuge here. the building acquired a new lease of life in 1924 when the Donaghmore Cooperative society began operations. It was later owned by avonmore Foods plc who donated it for use as a museum in 1989. On visiting Donaghmore you will see the original dormitories, a kitchen and a waiting hall authentically restored. the building today houses an agricultural museum.


3

Irish Fly-Fishing and Hunting Museumattanagh, Durrow, County laois+353 (0)57 8736112info@irishfishingandhuntingmuseum.comwww.irishfishingandhuntingmuseum.com

the only one of its kind in Ireland, the Fly Fishing Museum has a comprehensive collection on fishing, shooting, hunting, poaching and more. reels dating from 1848, rods, game licences, traps, hatching pens, boats, books, pictures and flies all form part of the collection.

Mountmellick MuseumMountmellick, County laois+ 353 (0) 57 8624525 |[email protected]

the main focus of the Museum is to conserve and display original pieces of Mountmellick Work (embroidery) and to protect the memory of Mountmellick’s rich Quaker industrial past. the Museum is situated on the banks of the river Owenass giving visitors a chance to glimpse at the inspiration behind the designs used.

Rock of Dunamaisestradbally, Co. laois+353 057 8664132 | [email protected]

Mapped by Ptolemy in 140 a.D., plundered by Vikings in 842 a.D., the dowry of a princess in 1169, seat of the O’More’s of laois in the 14th century and attacked by Cromwell’s forces in 1650, the rock of Dunamaise is one of the great monuments and fortresses of Ireland. situated on the Portlaoise / stradbally road, the rock of Dunamaise offers breathtaking views of County laois. today, the rock of Dunamaise is managed by the state.

Stradbally Steam Museum stradbally, County laois+353 (0)57 8641878 / (0)86 1258813www.irishsteam.ie

The museum houses many steam, fire and farm engines. these include a land rover Fire engine, which was stationed at Stradbally fire station in approximately 1950. a Guinness loco engine is also displayed, which was used around the streets near the Guinness Brewery, in Dublin over fifty years ago and there is even a home-made steam tractor. the Irish steam Preservation society holds its steam rally here during the august Bank Holiday. the stradbally Hall Narrow Gauge railway is the longest established steam powered narrow gauge railway in Ireland. the railway runs on bank holidays, and on request

Our PastOur Pleasure07

Monastic sites

Aghaboe Abbeyaghaboe, County laois+353 (0) 57 8664132

Founded by st Canice in the sixth century, aghaboe abbey is the site of four different phases of Christian life in Ireland. Visitors can also see the tree covered remains of a Norman Motte nearby. admission Free.

Killeshin MonasteryKilleshin, County laois+353 (0) 57 8664132

Killeshin is an important mediaeval monastery and the centre of learning and culture since early Christian times. the beautifully carved 5th century Hiberno- romanesque doorway on the 12th century church is one of the finest in the country.

Timahoe Round Tower timahoe, County laois+353 (0) 57 8664132

timahoe is a complete tower, though without floors or ladders. It has one of the finest four-order romanesque Doorways in Ireland, it is elaborately carved and decorated with interlace, human heads, chevrons and capitals. It is unique in round tower architecture.


Houses, Castles & Gardens

Ballaghmore CastleBorris-in-Ossory, County laois +353 (0) 505 21453www.castleballaghmore.com [email protected]

situated between roscrea and Borris-in-Ossory, Ballaghmore Castle was built in 1480 by the Gaelic Chieftain Mac Giollaphadraig (now called Fitzpatrick). Ballaghmore Castle is a unique and beautiful place, and is the perfect setting for a relaxing rural break in luxurious and historic surroundings next to a sixteenth century manor guest house. Ballaghmore Castle is located on the N7 between Borris-in-Ossory and roscrea.

Castle DurrowDurrow, County laois +353 (0)57 8736555 | [email protected] www.castledurrow.com

Between 1713 and 1732, the Flower Family, Viscounts ashbrook, built Castle Durrow, one of the great houses of Ireland. In the mid-1990s, Castle Durrow was renovated into a fine country house hotel. Today visitors can wander through the walled organic garden, where a number of old apple trees still produce. Perennial borders adorn the outside of the walled garden and the terraces. an 18th century pleasure garden of conifers, including a monkey puzzle, leads to a magnificent copper beech.

a path along the river joins the ‘leafy loops,’ a series of walks through Durrow’s scenic countryside which run along the erkina river. along here bluebells and wild garlic grow under the trees, which were planted in Victorian times. the walk ends behind the Church of Ireland graveyard where the original castle owners the ashbrooks are buried.

Open during daylight hours, except from Christmas until mid-January.


Emo Court House & Gardensemo, Portlaoise, County laois +353 (0)57 8626573 | [email protected] www.opw.ie

emo Court demesne is the second largest walled park in europe, after the Phoenix Park in Dublin. the parkland with formal lawns, mature trees and a nursery lake all located against the backdrop of emo Court, a neo-classical mansion designed in 1790 by James Gandon.

at the front of the house the Wellingtonia avenue runs for 1 mile. It is named after the sequoiadendron giganteum, which line it. Behind the house the arboretum covers approximately 20 acres. Here grass pathways meander through an impressive variety of trees such as the Bhutan Pine, the tulip tree (liriodendron tulipefera) the Handkerchief tree (Davidia involucrata) and cedars. also interesting is the lime tree avenue.

Open during daylight hours. admission free.

Heywood GardensBallinakill, County laois +353 (0)57 8733563 | [email protected] www.opw.ie

the centrepiece of the gardens is the lutyens Garden designed by sir edwin lutyens, dating from 1912. a pond with turtle fountains is surrounded by a range of plants. From the elliptical, sunken garden, a hidden staircase leads to a series of “rooms” which are divided by taxus baccata hedging. a pleached lime alley planted leads from the lutyens Garden to the upper terrace, where there are alliums, wild rose, erinus alpinus, hardy cyclamen, and Kniphofia. Nearby the Pergola has been recently planted with Hydrangeas, Wisteria, and Fuchsia. along this drive visitors can admire the exterior of the partially restored Orangery, the sham Castle and the old window. the landscape also includes the woodland of ancient oaks and beech, an obelisk, Claude’s seat and the bath house.


Sensory Garden at Dove House Dove House, Main street, abbeyleix, County laois +353(0)57 8731325 | [email protected]

Previously a Brigidine Convent, this 2 acre site was built and planted in 1996 by people with intellectual disabilities – all participants at Dove House. their work sits against the backdrop of lime trees, which were donated by lady de Vesci in 1840. the aim of the garden is to make visitors more aware of their five senses – Touch, sound, smell, sight and taste.

an impressive feature is the Humming stone with a hole carved in the middle of it. a person of any hearing ability can put his/her head in the hole and hear the resonance when others shout into the hole. the trickling water in the pond and fountain also stimulates the sense of sound.

The Garden at Ballintubbert Ballintubbert, stradbally, County laois+353 (0)85 8505876 [email protected] www.ballintubbert.com

It is one of the largest public gardens in the country, nestled in a beautiful valley between the village of stradbally, County laois and the town of athy, County Kildare, it covers an area of 14 acres and continues to develop, consisting of 42 “rooms”. some of these include the Victorian secret Garden, the White Garden, the little Orchard and the theatre lawn. It is just 50 minutes from Dublin by motorway via the M50. take a day off and relax completely in this little pocket of Irish countryside.


the following are open by appointment:

Clonaslee Garden Graiguefulla, Clonaslee, County laois+353 (0)57 [email protected]

This floral oasis in an old farmyard is a sundial is surrounded by box hedging and flowers. a stroll across a small stone path leads to a water feature, constructed to look like a natural spring. a quaint glasshouse, which houses tomatoes and beans, provides support to clematis. Passing tall foxgloves and arching solomon’s seal, visitors will come to a short beech walk. at the end of this there is a piece of bog oak, which is covered in clematis. this leads to a rectangular lawned area, which is lined on either side by herbaceous borders, full of poppies, astrantias, lilies, delphinium, aquilegia, crocosmia, astilbe and nepeta “six Hills Giant”. Beyond the striking sambucas nigra “Black lace” is the vegetable garden. Opposite is the berry garden, which produces blackcurrant, raspberry, gooseberry and blueberry.

Clonohill Gardens laois angling Centre, Coolrain, County laois+ 353 (0) 87 9962864 [email protected] www.laoisanglingcentre.ie

the Gardens have been designed and developed to enhance the existing landscape with many mature trees providing a shady home for woodland treasures on a one acre site surrounding Clonohill House.

a looped trail begins at the woodland area where collections of trilliums, Helleborus and Galanthus thrive. From there the path leads on to Jacobs Walk, which provides a colourful surprise for the visitor with its meandering gravel pathway framed by sandstone stables. an archway frames the entrance to the North Garden where one is greeted by an attractive Cytisus battandieri. a secret area and popular with children is the ‘red squirrels Den’ with its majestic sitka spruce trees. the sheltered walled garden overlooking the lake is a plant collectors’ paradise.

Dunmore Country Schoolswan road, Durrow, County laois + 353 (0) 57 8736578 [email protected] www.dunmorecountryschool.ie

Dunmore Country school covers approximately 1 acre. It is a working kitchen garden, which is dedicated to teaching. This garden overflows with fruit and vegetables. a range of vegetables are cultivated such as Japanese squash, courgettes, oca and rocket as well as unusual produce like purple carrots and purple potatoes. 48 varieties of tomatoes were grown in 2011 including some Mexican varieties. a selection of berries fruit in the garden; tayberry, gooseberry, blackberry, blackcurrant and the unusual white blackcurrant. there are interesting features such as a medlar tree, a fruiting quince, and a fruiting hedge, which is planted at 45° angle. Herbs are also produced including absinthe, angelica, various types of mint and hyssop. everything is used and processed.


Fruitlawn GardenFruitlawn, abbeyleix, County laois+353 (0)57 8730146 [email protected] www.arthurshackleton.com

Walled-in garden of approximately 1 acre with richly planted perennial borders containing many unusual plants, Hornbeam tunnel, orchard, fruit and vegetable garden, oak copse, yew hedges, beautiful climbing roses and many other lovely trees and shrubs. the different spaces in the garden include large perennial borders which have a mass of changing colour and texture throughout the summer. Within the formal layout, hundreds of perennial plants self-seed freely giving the garden a relaxed and informal feel. these include: agapanthus, aquilegas, Campanulas, Geraniums, Oenotheras and eryngiums.

Gash GardensGash, Castletown, County laois +353 (0)57 8732247 | [email protected] | www.gashgardens.ie

Gash Gardens covers over four acres and feature a collection of unusual plants and fine specimen trees.all summer, herbaceous borders and island beds provide a continuous succession of colour. the Persian ironwood (Parrotia persica), sweet gum (Liquidambar styraciflua) and Katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum) provide a spectacular seasonal finale.

the distinguishing feature of the garden is a stone cavern known as the Moon House with a cascade tumbling past its circular window into a lily pond. a laburnum archway leads through a fernery and along a path lined with beech hedging to the river walk, along the river Nore. Children are not admitted.


Longford

Heritage

Ardagh Villageardagh, County longfordtel: +353 (0)43 3342577 +353 (0)85 8888876| [email protected] www.longfordtourism.ie

ardagh is a beautiful heritage village which is famed in myth and literature. the earliest structure in the village is st. Mel’s Church, an early medieval ruin situated above the site of an 8th century timber church. the historic village was rebuilt by sir thomas John Featherston of ardagh House to the designs of architect, James rawson Carroll. Carroll designed the village complete with estate workers cottages, police barracks and courthouse, post office and land-agent’s house centred on a triangular green. the green is overlooked by st. Patrick’s Church of Ireland church with its distinctive lych-gate and a splendid Gothic revival clock tower dedicated to sir John’s uncle, sir. George ralph Featherston.

Over the years, ardagh has played host to writers and musicians such as Maria edgeworth, sir Walter scott, turlough O’Carolan and Oliver Goldsmith. It is believed that a humorous incident in ardagh House inspired Goldsmith to write the play “she stoops to Conquer”.

Ardagh Heritage & Creativity Centreardagh, County longford +353 (0)86 3027602 [email protected]

the ardagh Heritage & Creativity Centre is located in an old schoolhouse built in 1898 on the outskirts of the village. It houses a fascinating exhibition, outlining the history of this exquisite village. the centre also runs art and craft classes as well as the ‘Midir & etain Café and Craft Gallery’.


Aughnacliffe Portal TombLongford Heritage Office, Longford Library HQ, town Centre, longford town+353 (0)43 [email protected] www.longfordlibrary.ie

a pathway leads from the village of aughnacliffe in north County longford, to this impressive megalithic tomb located at the foot of a low hill. Known locally as the ‘aughnacliffe Dolmen’, it is unusual in that its three upright stones support two capstones or roofstones, as opposed to the more common single capstone. these large stones enclose a small space, which would have originally been a burial chamber. the monument also has a traditional connection with the ancient legend of Diarmaid and Gráinne and is believed to be one of their resting spots on their flight from Gráinne’s fiancé, the legendary hero Fionn MacCumhaill.

Battle of Ballinamuck SiteBallinamuck, County longfordLongford Heritage Office, Longford Library HQ, town Centre, longford town+353 (0)43 3340731 [email protected] www.longfordlibrary.ie

the small picturesque village of Ballinamuck is situated in north longford, and is of national significance as it is the site of the Battle of Ballinamuck. this was one of the last great battles in the 1798 rising and saw the defeat of the society of united Irishmen and their French brothers in arms. the battle took place on the 8th of september 1798 and a trail following the events of this fateful event surrounds the village.


The first clashes of the rebellion begun close to Dublin on the 24th May 1798 and spread throughout leinster. In august of that year, French reinforcements led by General Humbert landed in Kilcummin, Co. Mayo and made their way southeast to join the rest of the Irish troops, engaging in a series of successful and unsuccessful skirmishes. the line of their advance is marked by the Humbert Way, a trail leading from Co. Mayo to longford.

the rising and its climax are commemorated in the heritage centre within the ‘98 Memorial Hall, located in the centre of the village (access by appointment). The hall itself is a fine stone building, which was originally a royal Irish Constabulary (rIC) barracks, which initially had two circular towers attached giving it a castle-like appearance. these have since been removed. the hall was later in use as a Masonic lodge and the remains of a circular window, bearing the symbols of the Order, is concealed by a clock on the building’s façade. Close to the village of Ballinamuck is edenmore Bog, where the local community have developed walking trails through this area of fine natural beauty.

Corlea Trackway Visitor CentreKenagh, County longford+353 (0)43 3322386 | [email protected] www.longfordtourism.ie

the Corlea trackway Visitor Centre conserves an Iron age bog road, which was built in the year 148 BC across the surrounding bogland. the oak road is one of the largest of its kind to have been uncovered in europe. Inside the building, an 18-metre stretch of preserved road is on permanent display. Open from april - september.

Granard Motte and BaileyGranard, County longfordtel: +353 (0)43 3342577 / +353 (0)85 8888876| [email protected] | www.longfordtourism.ie

this anglo-Norman earthen mound was constructed by richard tuite in 1199 as part of a strategy to extend Norman control over the country. Originally the top would have had a timber tower surrounded by a palisade. standing 534 ft above sea level it is reputed to be the highest motte in Ireland.

although not accessible to the general public, the summit affords a view of five lakes, parts of nine counties and the faint outline of the slieve Bloom Mountains. Many myths are attached to it, some say there is a castle concealed within it. In 1932 a statue of st Patrick was erected on top of the motte to mark the fifteen centuries of the coming of our patron saint.


Lanesborough lanesborough, County longfordLongford Heritage Office, Longford Library HQ, town Centre, longford town+353 (0)43 3340731 [email protected] www.longfordlibrary.ie

lanesborough is situated on the river shannon, at the northern end of lough ree. It is linked with its sister village Ballyleague, Co. roscommon, by a fine stone bridge which affords fine views onto lough ree. lanesborough is located within the parish of rathcline, and close by is the impressive ruin of rathcline Castle and the medieval rathcline Church, with its historic sheela-na-gig carving. the nearby townland of lehery is the birthplace of Fr. Joseph Mullooly who ministered at the church of san Clemente, rome. It was he who helped discover the remains of an ancient roman streetscape beneath the church, including a 4th century Christian basilica. a bust dedicated to Fr. Mullooly stands in the grounds of st. Mary’s Church

NewtowncashelNewtowncashel, County longfordLongford Heritage Office, Longford Library HQ, town Centre, longford town+353 (0)43 3340731 [email protected] www.longfordlibrary.ie

the village of Newtowncashel is located close to lough ree on the river shannon. this is a very picturesque village, which has won the prestigious National tidy towns competition in 1980 and won other distinctions in the competition in 1998, 2004 and 20055. the village is distinctive by its collection of public art in bog oak carved by local craftsmen, Bog Wood sculptures.

at the edge of the village is a historic limestone quarry, the stone from which was used in the construction of many private and public buildings in County longford. the site features examples of old quarry machinery, which is a rarely-seen aspect of the industrial heritage of the midlands. the site of the former augustinian monastery on saints Island and the beautiful stone harbour at Barley Harbour, both of which are on the shore of lough ree are within easy reach.


Monastic sites

Abbeyderg Augustinian AbbeyLongford Tourism Office, Market square, longford towntel: +353 (0)43 3342577 +353 (0)85 8888876| [email protected]

the augustinian monastery of abbeyderg, situated approximately 5 km from Kenagh, was founded in the thirteenth century by Gormgall O’Quinn. It was destroyed in 1567. the remains of Maoilin O’Maelchonaire, who has been described as Chief Ollamh and poet of Ireland were buried here.

Abbeylara Cistercian AbbeyLongford Tourism Office, Market Square, longford towntel: +353 (0)43 3342577 +353 (0)85 8888876| [email protected] www.longfordtourism.ie

the abbey at abbeylara was founded about 1210 by the anglo-Norman lord, richard tuite and colonised from st Mary’s, Dublin, in 1214. all that remains of it is the central tower with a reputed sheela-na-gig and some adjacent walls.

Abbeyshrule Cistercian AbbeyLongford Tourism Office, Market Square, longford towntel: +353 (0)43 3342577 / +353 (0)85 8888876| [email protected] | www.longfordtourism.ie

a Cistercian abbey was founded here about 1150 and was one of the earliest in the country, as a daughter house of Melifont in County louth. the abbey was founded by the O’Farrells and was eventually closed by Queen elizabeth 1 during the tudor suppression of the monasteries and the lands were granted to robert Dillon, earl of roscommon.

Inchcleraun Islandtel: +353 (0)43 3342577 +353 (0)85 8888876| [email protected] www.longfordtourism.ie

Inchcleraun, named after the sister of Queen Maeve of Connacht. It is remembered in Irish mythology as the place where the legendary queen was killed while bathing in its tranquil waters by her ulster foes. During the early Christian era, st Diarmuid founded a monastery


on Inchcleraun. extensive ruins of six churches survive, the remains of greatest antiquity being those of the church named after the founding saint. the island was plundered extensively by the armies of Munster during the eleventh and twelfth centuries. the island is privately owned, therefore there are no organised ferries to the island. Private boats can be hired during the summer months.

Rathcline Church & Sheela-na-gig rathcline, lanesborough, County longfordLongford Heritage Office, Longford Library HQ, town Centre, longford town+353 (0)43 3340731 [email protected] www.longfordlibrary.ie

rathcline church is a late medieval church, situated in the townland of rathcline Glebe, south of Lanesborough. The first mention of the site in historic records was in 1397, however it is likely that this is a much older religious site. a number of decorated grave slabs, dating to the late 17th/early 18th centuries are located within the interior of the church.

Its most distinguishing feature is an unusual sheela-na-gig carving on the exterior of its east window. sheela-na-gigs are grotesque carvings of nude hags, which feature on some church buildings between the 12th to the 16th centuries. they may also appear on tower houses and castles between the 15th and 16th centuries. the only other known sheela in the county is at the former Cistercian abbey in abbeylara.

Saints Islandtel: +353 (0)43 3342577 +353 (0)85 [email protected]

On saints’ Island stand the ruins of an Augustinian monastery. It flourished during the fourteenth century under the scholarly abbot, augustin Magraidin, but the ravages of time took their toll and the site has lain derelict for centuries. there are stunning views of lough ree from here. St Mel’s Church, ArdaghLongford Tourism Office, Market Square, longford towntel: +353 (0)43 3342577 +353 (0)85 8888876| [email protected]

In the fifth century, Christianity arrived in ardagh when st Patrick founded a monastery there and at that time he ordained st Mel as the first bishop. The first cathedral on this site was constructed of wood. It was not until the eighth century that a stone building was erected, the ruins of which remain today. st Mel is reputed to be buried within its walls. st Brigid was professed a nun by st Mel and is strongly associated with ardagh.


Tubberpatrick CemeteryBallinamuck, County longford+353(0)43 3324848 [email protected] www.longfordlibrary.ie

tubberpatrick Cemetery is situated 5 km north of Ballinamuck. It contains memorials to General Blake, Gunner Magee and other Irish soldiers who were killed during or after the Battle of Ballinamuck (in the 1798 rebellion) and later buried there. there are also noteworthy stations of the cross in the cemetery. there is a holy well and an unusual ‘wishing tree’ beside the cemetery.


Viewmount HouseDublin road, longford+ 353 (0)43 3341919 | [email protected] | www.viewmounthouse.com

This magnificent Georgian residence was originally owned by the earl of longford. Built in 1740 by the Cuffe family, it was inherited by thomas Packenham when he married Elizabeth Cuffe and became the first Baron of longford. the Packenhams never lived in Viewmount House, as it was used by their agent to administer the longford estate. In the 1800s the house was used for a period as a Church of Ireland charter school. around 1890 Harry McCann, a famed gardener, was in residence. In the early 1900s Jack O’Farrell, Chief Justice lived in Viewmount House.

The house has been recently restored with flair and sensitivity. Guests are assured of a warm welcome, comfortable atmosphere and freshly cooked breakfasts from an extensive menu. the house was opened as a bed and breakfast in 1997 and has become established as one of Ireland’s leading accommodation providers. less than a mile from longford town centre, (which is at the junction of N4 and N5,) and approx 70 miles from Dublin.

the house is surrounded by four acres of magnificent gardens. The house adjoins longford Golf Club and there are a number of championship golf courses nearby -most noteably Glasson Golf Club. the House is an ideal base for touring the Midlands with strokestown House and Famine Museum near by, Belvedere House, Clonmacnoise and Newgrange are within easy reach.


Offaly

Heritage sites

Belmont Mill & Artists StudioBelmont, County Offaly+353 (0) 90 64 57598 | [email protected] www.belmontmill.com

Belmont Mill and artist studios are set in a water mill complex which dates back to the 18th Century. It is an inspiring venue for artists and creative people. located adjacent to the weir, on the river Brosna in the Heart of Ireland. the mill is open to the public mid april – mid July, visitors can visit the restored mill and see exhibitions.

Ireland’s Historic Science Centre Birr Castle Demesne, Birr, County Offaly+353 (0) 57 91 20336 | [email protected] |www.birrcastle.com

travel back to the time of the earlier earls and Countesses of rosse, when Birr Castle was a hub of scientific discovery and innovation. the interactive centre reveals the wonders of early photography, engineering, astronomy and photography with a special emphasis on the brilliant design and assembly of the world famous Great telescope.

Discover astronomical instruments, cameras, photographs and photographic equipment used by the third and Fourth earls and Mary, Countess of rosse, in the middle and late 1800s. also on display is electrical and engineering equipment originally belonging to Charles Parsons and used in his experiments as well as a large area devoted to the botanical work carried out in the Demesne. the whole collection is housed in the restored stables.


Clara Bog Visitor CentreClara Bog Visitor Centre, Clara, County Offaly.+353 (0)57 9368878 | [email protected]

Clara Bog is one of the best remaining examples of a raised bog in Western europe. ten thousand years of fascinating history can be explored in this unique landscape where plant and animal life are varied and plentiful. the Clara Bog Visitor Centre offers the visitor an interesting insight into the history and development of the bog.

Larry’s Old Time Village“Windmill House”Belmont, County Offaly+353 90 [email protected]

this ‘vernacular folk art’ model village depicts Ireland from the early 1900s up to the 1950. It incorporates 12 thatched cottages, a pub and 60 figurines inclusive of people and animals.

scenes include the eviction of a family from their cottage, a windmill and a landlord’s house. each model cottage is roofed with thatch and finished to intriguing detail. Step inside the life-size cottage and sit by the open fire. It is a rare insight into Ireland’s past.

Lough Boora Sculpture in the ParklandsBoora, County Offaly +353 (0)57 9357400 [email protected]

The magnificent wetlands and wildlife wilderness of lough Boora now host some of the most innovative land and environmental sculptures in Ireland. artists draw inspiration from the rich natural and industrial legacy of the boglands and have been invited each year to create a series of large-scale sculptures that are now part of the Parklands permanent collection. sculpture in the Parklands began as an international sculpture symposium in 2002 and is constantly evolving.


Tullamore Dew Heritage CentreBury Quay, tullamore, County Offaly+353 (0)57 9325015 [email protected] www.tullamore-dew.org

the tullamore Dew Heritage Centre is located in the original 1897 Bonded Warehouse. Visitors can wander through the various recreated working stations of the distillery such as the malting, bottling, corking, cooperage areas and the warehouse where the old oak barrels filled with Tullamore Dew Whiskey were left to mature. an exhibition relates the story of tullamore Dew Whiskey and the work that used to take place in the distillery. tours are available in which visitors have the opportunity to see and touch the artefacts for themselves.

Monastic sites

Clonmacnoise Clonmacnoise, shannonbridge, County Offaly+353(0)90 9674195

this sixth century monastic site, located on the banks of the river shannon is home to three High Crosses, a Cathedral, seven Churches and two round towers. this great monastery was founded in 548- 9 by st Ciaran. Clonmacnoise

was a centre of learning excellence, and many manuscripts, including the including the annals of tighernach (eleventh century) and the Book of the Dun Cow (twelfth century), were written here. the site is entered through the visitor centre, where a number of cross-slabs are displayed. the centrepiece of the Interpretative Centre is the ninth century Cross of the scriptures. Guided tours and a coffee shop are on site. the surrounding area of Clonmacnoise is a microcosm of landscapes within the Midlands. these include the river callows, eskers, boglands both preserved and cutaway.

DrumcullenCounty Offaly+ 353 (0) 57 9346839

the site was founded in the 6th century by a monk names Barrind. the high cross at Kinnitty Castle is believed to be from this site originally and brought to the castle by the landlords. access to Drumcullen monastic site is slightly tricky. leaving from Kinnitty you need to turn for rath / Knockbarron and pass the access road on your right. as the turn is acute, you need to turn and come back to the turn in. It is probably best to park and walk in as there are a number of gates and the terrain is uneven.


Durrow AbbeyDurrow, County Offaly+ 353 (0) 57 9346839

st Colmcille (also known as st Columba) founded a monastery at Durrow abbey in the sixth century, and the monastery’s scriptorium later produced the ‘Book of Durrow’, a latin gospel, now in trinity College library, Dublin. On site there is a holy well, a Georgian mansion and a 19th-century church. survey work has revealed an extensive early Christian enclosure surrounding the entire site. at present it is possible to park at the gate lodge and take a short walk of around five minutes to the site and there are plans for a visitor centre.

GallenFerbane, County Offaly+ 353 (0) 57 9346839

this site associated with st Canoc is just outside Ferbane on the N62. It is signposted and parking is available on the avenue. On view is a fabulous collection of grave slabs mostly from the 8th to 10th century, which the Office of Public Works have displayed in a newly built wall. these were excavated in 1934-35. they display an extraordinary variety of Christian symbols.

LemanaghanBallycumber, County Offaly+ 353 (0) 57 9346839

lemanaghan is the site of a monastery founded by st Manchan in 665. the ruined church was built in the twelfth century and extended between the fifteenth and sixteenth century. Inside are two cross inscribed stones. Beyond the church is the holy well and rag tree. Beside the church is a very fine bullaun stone. A stone flagged togher leads from the holy well to a rectangular enclosure with an early Christian oratory, called st Mella’s Cell, in it. associated with this site is st Manchan’s shrine in Boher Church.

Macregol GospelsBirr town library, Wilmer road, Birr, County Offaly +353 (0)57 9124950. [email protected] www.birrhistsoc.com

the Macregol Gospels are a manuscript copy of the four Gospels, written and illuminated by Macregol who was scribe, abbot and bishop of Birr around 800aD. the Gospel Book of Macregol is a significant relic of the early Christian monastery at Birr. exhibition copy on display in converted Pugin convent now Birr library, while original is in Bodheian library, Oxford


Rahan rahan, County Offaly+ 353 (0) 57 9346839

the monastic site at rahan dates back to the 6th century and is associated with st Carthage. the large enclosure is D shaped with the Brosna river forming the straight side. the enclosure is privately owned farm land. Please park on the roadside. You can however walk along the path to the Church of Ireland church which dates back to the 12th century and the two graveyards, and on across the field further to the romanesque medieval ruined church which is managed by the state. access to the church shows the wonderful chancel arch and carved heads, call 087 7426297 for the key. at the rear / east end of the church is the famous romanesque round window with carved heads, binoculars are useful for examining them at first floor level.

Seir KieranClareen, County Offaly+ 353 (0) 57 9346839

this is the site of an important monastery founded by St Ciaran in the fifth century. In the fields surrounding the church one can see the extensive double-banked earthen enclosure which probably supported a timber palisade enclosing an area of ten acres. Visible along the enclosing ramparts there is a low motte on top of which it is thought a timber castle was built by anglo Normans in the twelfth century. Inside the graveyard there are the remains of the augustinian Priory with a medieval gun turret and the base of a round tower. the decorated base of a large high cross, the shaft and head which are now missing can still be seen in the centre of the graveyard. adjacent to the site are st Ciaran’s Bush and stone, and holy well.

St Brendan’s ChurchBirr, County Offaly+353 (0)57 9246839

st Brendan’s Church was built in the late thirteenth and fourteenth century, on the site of a monastery founded by st Brendan in the sixth century. In the seventeenth century, the Parsons family added a north aisle and a fortified bell tower. Cain adomnain, a law for the protection of women and children, was proclaimed here in 697. the monastery had one of the most important scriptoria in Ireland and produced a ninth century illuminated manuscript known as the Gospels of Mac regol, now housed in the Bodleian library in Oxford. a copy can be seen in Birr library. Mac regol was scribe, bishop and abbot of Birr and died in 822.


St Manchans ShrineBoher, County Offaly+ 353 (0)57 9336119

the shrine, from lemanaghan Monastic site is now magnificently displayed in the Church of st Manchan at Boher. though damaged, the shrine is one of the masterpieces of Irish Christian art. a house-shaped box of yew-wood has been cased in bronze, and the whole elaborately gilded and enameled. Most of the ornamental work is of mixed Viking and Irish styles, which date the main body of the shrine to around 1125.


Birr Castle Demesne & Historic Science CentreBirr, County Offaly +353 (0)57 [email protected]| www.birrcastle.com

Birr Castle Demesne and Ireland’s Historic science Centre offer a winter garden, formal garden, terrace garden and a river garden. the beautiful parkland features thousands of rare trees and plants collected from all over the world. the rivers, lakes and waterfalls are all memorable. the Great telescope constructed at Birr Castle in the 1840’s, the largest in the world for seventy years, can be viewed. Ireland’s Historic science Centre features pioneering achievements in fields of astronomy, photography engineering and horticulture.


Charleville Castletullamore, County Offaly +353 (0)57 9321279 [email protected] www.charlevillecastle.com

this castellated mansion was built between 1798 and 1810 for the first Earl of Charleville designed by Francis Johnston. With its soaring prospect tower and attached chapel wing, it is an exceptional example of domestic Gothic Revival. It is one of the very finest and most impressive country houses ever to have been built in Ireland. the castle is situated in one of Ireland’s ancient oak woods. advanced booking is advised to ensure access to the castle.

Kinnitty CastleKinnitty, County Offaly +353 (0)57 9137318 | [email protected] www.kinnittycastle.com

Kinnitty Castle is located in the foothills of the slieve Bloom Mountains. this castellated mansion is on a 10,000 acre estate. The first Castle at Kinnitty was destroyed in 1209 and was later rebuilt by the Normans in 1213. later, the Normans were driven out by the powerful Gaelic clan, the O’ Carrolls of ely. In 1664 the crown granted an estate, which included Kinnitty Castle, to Colonel thomas Winter as reward for military service. Colonel Winter’s descendants sold the estate to the Bernard family in 1764. It then became known as Castle Bernard.

the ninth century Drumcullen high Cross is located in front of Kinnitty castle in the grounds.

as with many stately homes in Ireland, the Castle was burned down by the republican forces. the Castle was rebuilt in 1928 and the Bernard family lived there until 1946 when it was sold to lord Decies who in turn sold the Castle to the state in 1951. the state retained ownership until it was sold in 1994 and transformed into a luxurious hotel.


Lough Boora ParklandsBoora, County Offaly.+353 (0)57 [email protected] www.loughbooraparklands.com

this fascinating re-generating cut away bogland is fast developing new habitats and hosting a whole range of new species on a site which was relatively barren 20 years ago. there is now a suite of walks and cycle paths to archaeological and natural heritage sites. Home to the Grey Partridge this is also a great site for birdwatchers. a sculpture Park has been developed over the past decade with a considerable range of works by international artists. Bike hire is available in the summer months.


Ballybrittan Castleedenderry, County Offaly +353 (0)87 2469802

Ballybrittan Castle is an extended tower-house which takes its name from the tower or a castle built in the late fifteenth century as an O’Connor stronghold in the townland of Ballybrittan, near edenderry, Co. Offaly. although a major portion of the castle was taken down in the nineteenth century the overall suite of buildings is regarded as one of the best surviving examples of this house type. It still incorporates fifteenth, sixteenth, seventeenth and eighteenth century features reflecting many extensions, renewals and rebuildings over hundreds of years.


Bellefield House & Gardensshinrone, County Offaly+353 (0)505 47766 | [email protected] www.loughderggardens.com/bellefield.php

Dating from 1840 this Georgian farmhouse and 2-acre walled garden have been restored by well known garden architect angela Jupe. a member of the lough Derg Garden trail, the walled garden contains a collection of peony, iris, and old roses. Its centrepiece is a whimsical folly. Old apple, pear, damson and cobnuts have been retained while new Irish and old varieties of apple, plum, cherry, quince and persimmon have been added. the walls are clad with unusual clematis and Chilean climbers. there is also a large glasshouse, which was built with salvaged cast iron windows. It houses grape, peach, fuchsia and species lilies. In spring the woodland garden is awash with snowdrops (over 100 varieties), cyclamen, wood anemone and old daffodils.

Cloghan Castlelusmagh, Banagher, County Offaly. +353 (0)57 9151650 [email protected]

Originally a medieval O’Madden stronghold, it is set in a beautiful area bounded by the river shannon and little Brosna. a fascinating guided tour through the castle is offered by the owners where the visitor will see antique furniture, Jacob sheep and hear ghost stories. special occasions also catered for.

Clonony CastleNear shannonharbour, County Offaly+353 (0) 90 6457896 | www.clononycastle.ie

situated on the r357 between Cloghan and shannonbridge, this is one of the better preserved tower houses in Offaly and it shows many layers of reuse and adaptation by its owners over the centuries. Built in the 1500s by the MacCoughlan family, it is currently undergoing conservation works by the present owner. Picnic areas are available plus the banquet hall and tea room by reservation only.


Gloster HouseBrosna, Birr, County Offaly +353 (0)87 2342135 |[email protected] www.glosterhouse.com

Gloster House and Demesne is a late seventeenth – early eighteenth century Georgian house of significant architectural and historic importance with extensive gardens incorporating terraces, water features, woodland and lakeside walks.

Leap CastleBirr, County Offaly +353 (0)57 [email protected]

through turbulent centuries, leap Castle kept watch for the Chieftains of ely O’Carroll and still stands fortress-like on the hillside overlooking a vast stretch of the countryside. In 1532 upon the death of The Chief of the Clan, fierce rivalry erupted within the family. above the main hall of the original tower is the Bloody Chapel where “One-eyed tadhg O’Carroll” slew his brother, a priest, as he was holding mass at the altar, hence the name the Bloody Chapel.

The Round HouseBoland’s lock, Cappincur, County Offaly+353 (0)1 4972268

this beautifully refurbished lock house is a seven-bay, two storey house with gable ends, four windows and a castellated front. Michael Hayes, who constructed the canal harbour and stores in tullamore was responsible for its construction and design. the house is located 5 km east of tullamore, a pleasant walk along a section of the Grand Canal Way.

Woodland Cottage GardenWoodland Cottage, Birr, County Offaly.+353 (0)57 9121215 [email protected] www.loughderggardens.com/woodlandcottage.php

Woodland Cottage Garden has been developing over 20 year period. the garden consists of three distinctive areas. to the front


of the house is the main lawn, which is flanked by a large mixed herbaceous border on one side. a hidden path leads down to the new rose garden, where there is a reflection pond and pergola. Continuing along the rustic path, visitors reach the woodland area. the semi-mature trees are under-planted with spring-flowering bulbs, Hellebores, Anemone nemerosa, Hostas and many other interesting woodland species. Crossing the avenue, visitors can follow grass pathways that meander through a meadow filled with some fine specimens of both mature and semi-mature trees. Of particular interest are some old heritage apple trees.

Westmeath

Heritage

Dún na Sí Heritage CentreKnockdomney, Moate,County Westmeath+353 (0)90 6481183 |[email protected]

Dún na sí Heritage Centre is the home of the Moate Branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann. It is a microcosm of Irish culture. explore the park, a picture of by-gone days. trace your family roots with the help of our trained researchers. enjoy the music, song, dance and storytelling at a folklore show, seisiún or céilí. Dún na sí is located 1 km north of Moate on the Mount temple road. the Centre is open all year round and the park is open from May - October.

Kilbeggan DistilleryMain street, Kilbeggan,County Westmeath+353 (0)57 9332134 | [email protected] | www.kilbegganwhiskey.com

take a step back in time and visit the oldest licensed distillery in the world. established in 1757, triple distilled malt whiskey was produced in Kilbeggan for over two hundred years. Now open as a museum, guided tours follow the process from the grinding of the grain to the casking of the final product. Learn about the lives and the working conditions of the people who worked here. Peer down into the 28ft deep solid oak vats to where the yeast and worts fermented. look as the nineteenth century water wheel drives the restored machinery. Watch as the cooper tightens the hoops of the oak casks. stroll through the Bonded Warehouse and let the aroma of maturing whiskey arouse your senses. the distillery is located just off the M6.


Moate Museum CourthouseMain st. Moate, County Westmeath+ 353 (0) 90 6482167

the Museum has over 1000 artefacts covering the Folk History of the town and the surrounding countryside in the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. Displays include farm tools and equipment, an old farm kitchen, church and school through the years, a jail room, an archaeology room, the Old Forge, tradesmen’s tools and a documents archive. Open 1st June -30th september. Group visits can be set up outside normal hours/days by appointment.

Monastic sites

Cathedral MuseumCathedral of Christ the KingMullingar, County Westmeath+353(0)44 9348338

the Cathedral of Christ the King was opened in 1936. It is Basilican in form with twin towers and a dome. the style is modernised renaissance. the museum is situated within the Cathedral building, above the sacristy, the entrance being at the right side of the building. It contains many artefacts of historical interest and models of church buildings in the Mullingar area from the seventeenth century to the present. art exhibits of various kinds, including two large canvases of saints loman and Colman, two saints of local origin are on display. limited opening hours during the months of May – October.

Derryglad Folk Museumtuam road, Curraghboy, athlone+353 (0)90 [email protected]

the museum is privately owned and run by the Finneran Family and houses a unique 25 year collection of over 3,000 items. these include; horse-drawn machinery restored to the original working order, tradesman tools and butter making equipment radio’s etc.

Fore AbbeyFore, Mullingar, County Westmeath+353(0)44 9661780

the village of Fore is in a valley between two hills. Here you will see the ancient ruins of a Christian monastery. Fore is the town of the springs and was named after st Fechin’s spring, which is beside the old church. It was st Fechin who founded the ancient Fore abbey around 630 a.D. By 665 a.D. there were three hundred monks living in the community. an important aspect of Fore is the “Fore Crosses” one of which is in the village of Fore. there are eighteen crosses; some crosses are plain others are carved. there are spread out over 10 km on roadways and in fields and bear witness to religious persecution during penal times. Fore contains the only certain Benedictine remains in Ireland.


Multyfarnham Franciscan FriaryMultyarnham, County Westmeath+353 (0)44 9371114

the 700 year old Franciscan Friary, includes quarters for priests and brothers and an extensive garden. It was suppressed by Henry VIII in 1540, but the friars preserved a presence there ‘a nest of scorpions’ as Queen elizabeth described them until they were scattered by Cromwell in 1651. the restoration of the abbey was completed in 1973. Its new stained glass windows show the burning of the abbey in 1601, a priest holding a secret mass, and the legend of the Children of lir. the beautifully laid out gardens contains life-sized stations of the cross, one of the finest outdoor shrines in Ireland.

St Brigid’s WellMullingar, County Westmeath+353(0)44 9348650

this is an ancient spring, traditionally associated with st Brigid. a path of stones representing the stations of the Cross leads to a small stone beehive chapel. It is located on the old longford road.

Taghmon – St Munna’s ChurchCrookedwood, County Westmeath+353 (0)44 9348571

taghmon church, one mile east of Crookedwood is one of the most important monuments in County Westmeath and is preserved as a National Monument in the care of the state. Originally it was the site of an early Christian monastery founded by st Finian Munna around the late sixth century or slightly later. It is generally agreed that the current ruins date to the fifteenth century. The church is reported to have been sacked by Farrell MacGeoghegan in 1452 in the annals of the Four Masters. By 1587 the church was known to have been the property of the Nugents, an important family of the Pale and it is later recorded to have been ruined by 1622. Nonetheless, it was still able to provide shelter to Cromwell and his army when planning to attack the nearby Nugent castle in 1650.


Tristernagh AbbeyBallynacargy, County Westmeath+353 (0)44 9348571

about 3 km north east of Ballynacargy lie the ruins of tristernagh abbey that was dedicated to the Mother of God. the abbey sometimes called the Priory of Kilbixy, was founded in 1192 by Geoffrey de Constantine, an anglo-Norman who acquired lands in the area after the Norman invasion. this augustinian priory is thought to have been quite famous over the years of its existence until 1536 when the commissioner of Henry VIII plundered it and closed it down.

Nearby are the remains of Kilbixy which was an important medieval town, but which had a Christian heritage going back a long time before. No remains of the original church are visible and its site is occupied by an old Protestant church erected by lord sunderlin in 1800.


Athlone Castle Visitor Centresaint Peter’s square, athlone, County Westmeath+ 353 (0) 9064 42109 [email protected] www.athloneartandheritage.ie

athlone Castle is a Norman Castle that dominates the town centre of athlone in County Westmeath. It commands the traditional gateway to the West of Ireland. the first real signs of settlement at Athlone grew up in anglo-Norman times around the castle which was built for King John of england by his Irish justiciar Bishop John De Gray of Norwich. Though not the first castle to be built at Athlone this castle has endured like no other. looking at it today it still incorporates elements of the castle of 1210 together with various additions and alterations which were made in response to advances in warfare. It has many of the characteristics of a Napoleonic fortification as it was remodeled during that period to defend the crossing point of the shannon.

the Keep of the Castle tells the dramatic story of the famous siege of athlone while the other buildings house a modern interpretative centre focusing on athlone, the Castle and the periods both before and after the siege.


Belvedere House Gardens & ParkBelvedere, Mullingar, County Westmeath +353 (0)44 9349060 | [email protected] www.belvedere-house.ie

the estate comprises one hundred and sixty acres of parkland with magnificent woodland and lakeshore walks. several follies adorn the landscape including Ireland’s largest folly, the Jealous Wall. the restored Belvedere House is an eighteenth century hunting/fishing lodge designed by the renowned German architect richard Castle for robert rochfort, later the 1st earl of Belvedere. a fascinating Victorian walled garden, contains one of Ireland’s finest collections of rare and special plants. at the end of the Victorian Garden is a new area the enchanted Glen a secret Faery Garden. the stable block is home to a modern visitor centre with multi-media show, exhibitions, cafe and gift shop. adjacent to the visitor centre is the animal sanctuary and children’s play area.

Lough Park House Castlepollard, County Westmeath +353 (0)44 966 1226

a gable ended, early 18th century, Dower House of the Pollard family, with a pedimented doric doorcase with pilasters and good detail in the small porch. No dogs allowed.

Middleton Park HouseCastletown Geoghegan, County Westmeath +353 (0)44 [email protected] www.mph.ie

Middleton Park House was built by George Boyd in 1850. He commissioned George Papworth, architect, to design and oversee the building of the house. acclaimed features of the house were its under-floor heating system, stone bifurcated staircase leading to the gallery landing and three-story high atrium lantern located in the main hall. the house also boasts one of a few richard turner Conservatories to be found in Ireland.

the house and estate remained in the rochfort-Boyd family until the 1960s when it was sold. since then it has seen many owners. today, Middleton Park House is proud of its architectural heritage and provides an exclusive setting for weddings, corporate events and other private occasions. Middleton Park House is open to the public on sunday without prior appointment from 11.00 am until 6.00 pm.


Tyrrellspass Castletyrellspass, County Westmeath +353 (0) 44 [email protected] www.tyrrellspasscastle.com

this is the only remaining castle of the tyrrells, cousins of William the Conqueror who came to Ireland in 1169. It was built circa 1411 and was extensively restored in the 1970s. the castle follows the general pattern of tower houses, stone built, essentially defensive and comprising a series of superimposed chambers. the original spiral staircase and one of the original roof beams dates from 1280. The ground floor is currently being used as a restaurant and coffee shop.


Rockfield House and Gardensrathaspic, rathowen, Mullingar, County Westmeath+353 (0)43 76024

Rockfield House is a classical Georgian residence with delicate and ornate plasterwork offering traditional character and charm. It stands secluded among mature trees. the nature’s wonderland garden is shared with wandering wildlife and farm animals on an organic farm.

Togherstown Houseloughnavally, County Westmeath +353 (0)87 [email protected] www.togherstownhouse.com

Built circa 1695, over its long existence it has gone through many changes. the most significant of these was in the mid nineteenth century, when it was extended to include two large ‘wings’. the westerly ‘wing’ comprises a ballroom with an extremely ornate stucco-work ceiling.


Tullynally Castle & GardensCastlepollard, County Westmeath +353 (0)44 [email protected]

tullynally has been owned by the Pakenhams, later earls of longford, since the seventeenth century. the original house was remodelled by the 2nd earl as a huge rambling gothic revival castle in the early 1800s, now one of the largest in Ireland to survive as a family home. terraced lawns around the castle overlook superb eighteenth century parkland. the adjoining woodland gardens and walled gardens date largely from the same period and encompass a grotto of eroded limestone from nearby lough Derravaragh and two ornamental lakes. the walled gardens have extensive flower borders and an avenue of giant two-hundred year old Irish yews. tullynally castle and gardens are situated 1.5 km outside Castlepollard on the Granard road (signposted), 20 km from Mullingar 80 km from Dublin via N4 or N3.

MidlandsIreland.ie

Bridge Centre, Bridge Street

Tullamore, County Offaly

T: + 353 (0) 57 93 52996/7

E: [email protected]

www.midlandsireland.ie

MidlandsIreland.ie

Bridge Centre, Bridge Street

Tullamore, County Offaly

+ 353 (0) 57 93 52996/7

E: [email protected]

www.midlandsireland.ie

Guide · 2017-09-29 · reels dating from 1848, rods, game licences, traps, hatching pens, boats,...

Documents

Transcript of Guide · 2017-09-29 · reels dating from 1848, rods, game licences, traps, hatching pens, boats,...