County Laois

Laois

Laois is a County with lots for the visitor to do and see in the midlands, surrounded by the following counties Carlow, Kilkenny, Tipperary, Offaly, Kildare, it can be quickly accessed across several neighbouring counties. It is just 1 hr from Dublin, Limerick and Athlone and 1hr 40 from Cork, 1hr 50 Galway, 1hr 20 from Waterford.

Laois & Offaly share the beauty of the Slieve Bloom mountain range making it an ideal spot for walking and generally getting out and about and enjoying the nature around us.

Laois with the Rivers Nore & Barrow flowing through it and also its many lakes is an ideal area for anglers and Coolrain is where you will find the Laois Angling Centre, angling can be enjoyed at Brittas Lake and it is a great area for walking as is Granstown Lake, with woodland & nature reserve. Walking in Laois can also be enjoyed around Cullohill and visit the Cullohill Castle ruin in its lovely rural setting and the woods in Stradbally.

Laois also has lots of water activities available especially in Durrow where the Laois Kayak & Canoe Club is based. Laois is where you can find a number of gardens which are open to visitors such as Heywood Gardens, Gash Gardens, Ballintubbert Garden just to name a few.

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Thrills on the Rivers

For those seeking adventure, the Rivers Nore and Barrow offer a playground for water sports enthusiasts. Glide along the waters, feeling the breeze on your face as you kayak or paddle board through stunning scenery these rivers are sure to provide a picturesque backdrop for a day of aquatic adventures. The rivers' gentle embrace allows you to reconnect with nature and yourself.

A Symphony of Music The Electric Picnic

Join the vibrant crowds and immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of music, art, and culture. This annual festival promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you buzzing with excitement.

The Electric Picnic, a celebration of art, music, and pure joy! Join the lively crowd and immerse yourself in an extraordinary festival experience. The rhythm of the music will lift your spirits and bring a smile to your face, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.

A Leisurely Barge Ride

Slow down the pace and embrace the leisurely spirit of County Laois by hiring a barge. Drift along the serene waterways, and past charming villages and bucolic landscapes, embracing the unhurried pace of life on the water. It's the perfect way to unwind and immerse yourself in the county's natural beauty.

Aghaboe Abbey A Glimpse into the Past

History buffs will be enchanted by Aghaboe Abbey, an ancient monastic site dating back to the 6th century. Explore the ruins and uncover the stories of the past while surrounded by a tranquil ambiance.

Delve into history as you explore the ancient ruins. The site's mystical aura and centuries-old stories will transport you to a bygone era, igniting your imagination.

Laois Visitor Attractions

Emo Court in Co Laois is a magnificent example of the neo-Classical style, reflecting the architecture of ancient Greece and Rome, why not take a tour of the house and step back in time, with a cafe onsite. Mountmellick Museum displays many Mountmellick Embroidery pieces and protects the memory of Mountmellick’s rich Quaker industrial past. The museum is situated on the banks of the River Owenass. Donaghamore Famine Workhouse Museum.

Laois Festivals

The Electric Picnic Music event held in Stradbally, Co Laois in September is always booked to near capacity bringing music arts from all over the world, a music event for the diary. Co Laois is where many community festivals are held, great family festivals such as Ossory Agricultural Show in July and Clonaslee Agricultural Show. Another music festival in Co Laois is the Portlaoise Magnet Music Festival, Co Laois held in August a music festival which is community driven.

Heywood Gardens

Heywood Gardens, Ballinakill, Co Laois consists of gardens, lakes, woodland and architectural features beautifully layed out. Stradbally Steam Museum, Portlaoise, Co Laois houses many steam, fire and farm engines in the museum for the visitor to view. Ballaghmore Castle, Dublin Road, Borris-in-Ossory, Co Offaly is situated between Roscrea and Borris-on-Ossory, built in 1480.

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Prepare to be captivated by the ancient castles that grace County Laois. The Rock of Dunamase stands majestically on a limestone outcrop, a silent witness to centuries of Irish history. As you explore its ruins, you'll feel the echoes of battles and the whispers of long-gone royalty.

Perched dramatically atop a limestone outcrop, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Wander through its ancient ruins and imagine the tales of battles and royalty that have shaped its history.

Laois Gardens of Tranquillity

Garden enthusiasts will find solace in the charming Heywood Gardens, where nature and art intertwine in perfect harmony. Wander through Gash Gardens, where a riot of colours and scents surround you, transporting you to a magical realm. And don't miss Ballintubbert Garden, a hidden gem where serenity and beauty unite to create an unforgettable experience.

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