The ruins of Clonmacnoise reveal a remarkable variety within a compact area: the site includes a cathedral, two round towers, three high crosses, nine churches and more than 700 early Christian grave slabs. The many different architectural and commemorative forms make this an impressive gateway to the history of County Offaly.
History along trails and in buildings
Charleville Castle tells the story of another era: the castle dates from 1798 and was designed in the Gothic Revival style. Those who prefer to discover historic places as part of a route can take the Pilgrim Path, which links Ballycumber with the monastic site at Clonmacnoise. The route runs from east to west through central County Offaly, following the historic corridor of the Esker Riada.
The Offaly Way offers a different focus. This 32.4-kilometre linear walking route runs from Cadamstown to Lemanaghan and passes a rare Mesolithic site near Boora. Its route includes quiet roads, riverside and woodland paths, sections through farmland and paved roads. In this way, the route combines changing landscape views with an archaeological trail.
Raised bog, landscape and sculpture
Rivers, lakes, peat bogs, mountains and walking trails shape the visitor experience in County Offaly. Clara Bog is a notable natural feature: it is considered perhaps the best-preserved example of an ombrotrophic raised bog in western central Europe. It offers a distinct focus alongside the region’s historic buildings and landscaped parks.
At Lough Boora Discovery Park, on Loch an Dochais, the visitor centre offers information, public toilets, a café, bike hire, a picnic area and a car park. The Sculpture Park features a 3.3-kilometre walking and cycling route with 24 works by Irish and international sculptors. At 3.3 kilometres, it is on a different scale from the 32.4-kilometre Offaly Way: one is a route featuring artworks, the other a linear walk between two places. If you plan to use the bike hire or café, check the park’s latest information before your visit.
Gardens, science and whiskey
Birr Castle Demesne brings together gardens and science. The 120-acre park features more than 5,000 plant species, award-winning gardens and an adventure playground; rare trees also grow in the gardens. Other highlights include the Great Telescope, castle tours and the Historic Science Centre of Ireland, which showcases significant achievements in astronomy, engineering and photography. Family activities are also available. Guided castle tours are offered from May to August and at other times by prior arrangement. Check the latest information before your visit.
In Tullamore, the Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery Experience tells the 192-year history of the whiskey. It showcases a fully integrated production process, from grain to bottling, at a single site. Visitors receive an Irish coffee to sample on arrival. You can also have your own whiskey blended and bottled to buy and take home. As details of the visitor experience may change, it is advisable to check the latest information beforehand.
Activities on the Shannon
Mid Ireland Adventure is located on the River Shannon in Banagher. Its activities include kayak safaris, kayak hire, SUP safaris, archery, walking and bike hire. Activities must be booked in advance.
Discover more destinations: Rhode, Banagher, Birr, Tullamore, Killurin, Kinnitty, Daingean, Cloghan, Creagh, Clonmacnoise, Toberpatrick, Shannonbridge, The Curragh.
Return to the regional travel overview: Leinster.
