Wherever your interests lie - shopping, cruising, golf, pampering, theater, equestrian, angling or walking, the mid-Ireland region offers something for everyone.
Viking Tours Athlone
Viking ships have been a feature on the Irish waterways since 795 AD. Experience the thrill of discovering this remarkable landscape with a cruise down the River Shannon in a Viking long ship. You can journey up Lough Ree or down to renowned monastic site Clonmacnoise. The ship is a piece of history in itself as the longest serving timer passenger ship on the inland waterways in either Ireland or the UK.
Tullamore D.E.W.
The recently renovated home of the internationally famous whiskey. Tullamore D.E.W. invites you to step inside the walls of this 19th century bonded warehouse on the banks of the Grand Canal. Immerse yourself in the craft and passion that goes into every bottle of a long-running whiskey-making tradition.
Donaghmore Workhouse Museum
The Great Famine of 1845-1849 is remembered in this unique attraction in county Laois. Workhouses were built throughout the country to provide sanctuary to those who were suffering the effects of the famine. The Donaghmore Workhouse now houses a museum which pays tribute to those who lived and died there. It also celebrates the agricultural heritage of the area through local traditions and customs.
Roscrea Castle
The stone castle consists of a gate tower, curtain walls and two corner towers dating from the 1280s. Damer House was added in the 18th century in the Queen Anne style. It is an example of the pre-Palladian architecture. The complex also houses the original St. Cronan’s high cross which dates from the 12th century.
Kearney House in Moneygall
Between 1800 and 1851, this house in Moneygall, county Offaly was home to the Kearney family. The Kearney family are President Obama’s ancestors and he visited the area in 2011 to trace his roots. The House itself has been kept magnificently and boasts a large collection of memorabilia which dates from the original Kearney residence up to the visit of the U.S. President.
Tullynally Castle Gardens
Tullynally has been home to the Pakenhams, later Earls of Longford since the 17th century. The exceptional gardens and park lands have been in existence for over three hundred years. The winding paths and woodlands gardens encompass a two ornamental lakes and a series of follies. The walled gardens are even home to a family of llamas!
Fogarty’s Tree Farm and Nursery
Fogarty’s, located close to Lough Derg in county Tipperary, houses hundreds of species of local and exotic trees. The farm covers twelve hectares of countryside in which deer and pheasant roam freely. Matt has won farm forester of the year (1995) and amenity forester of the year (2000). He is happy to guide visitors through the tranquility of his gorgeous estate.
Portumna Castle and Gardens
This great semi-fortified house at Portumna was established by 1618. Built by Richard Burke or de Burgo, 4th Earl of Clanricarde, it was the main home of the de Burgo family for over two hundred years. It include a 17th century walled kitchen garden which is planted with fruit trees, flowers, herbs and vegetables, all combining to make it a treat for the senses.
For more details on these and a number of other attractions visit the Mid Ireland Tourism website where you can also request sample itineraries for your trip. www.midirelandtourism.ie
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