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31 Best Stops Between Clonmel and Mullingar
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Clonmel to Mullingar?
The direct drive from Clonmel to Mullingar is 114 mi (183 km), and should have a drive time of 2 hrs 10 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Clonmel to Mullingar, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Kilkenny, as well as top places to visit like Dungarvan Castle and Clonea Beach, or the ever-popular Lismore Castle Gardens.
Visiting Clonmel or Mullingar? See our Clonmel Trip Planner and our Mullingar Trip Planner.
114 mi
Total Distance
2 hrs 10 mins
Drive Time
31 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top city between Clonmel and Mullingar
The top city between Clonmel and Mullingar is Kilkenny. It's less than an hour from Clonmel and 2 hours from Mullingar.
1
Kilkenny
Kilkenny, situated in County Kilkenny, Ireland, is a historic city nestled on the banks of the River Nore. With a population of around 27,184 people, it's the thirteenth-largest urban center in Ireland. The city boasts a rich medieval heritage and offers ghost tours for those intrigued by its spooky history. Kilkenny's iconic stone castle dates back to the thirteenth century and showcases various architectural styles, including the unique nineteenth-century Chinese Withdrawing Room.
Most popular city on this route
12 minutes off the main route, 31% of way to Mullingar
Best stops along Clonmel to Mullingar drive
The top stops along the way from Clonmel to Mullingar (with short detours) are Kilkenny Castle, Irish National Stud & Gardens, and Smithwick's Experience. Other popular stops include Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery Visitor Experience, Birr Castle Demesne, and Cahir Castle.
1Nikitha N — Google reviewAmy G — Google reviewGavin — Google reviewInfo R — Google reviewAurora A — Google reviewFanny A — Google reviewUna S — Google review•
Lismore Castle Gardens
Mentioned on
Garden
Nature & Parks
Lismore Castle Gardens, located in Ireland, is a must-visit destination for garden enthusiasts. Spanning 3 hectares, these historic gardens are divided into the walled Jacobean upper garden and the more informal lower garden. The lower garden features modern sculptures, including two pieces of the Berlin Wall. Visitors can stroll through a splendid yew walk where it's believed that Edmund Spenser wrote The Faerie Queen.
A great visit to the gardens, with plenty to see for all. It was Mid spring, so the tulips were looking stunning, and some of the camelias and marigolds were beginning to bloom.
We visited with 2 girls (8 & 10) who found plenty to explore.
There's a lovely rope swing in the lower garden, and staff really friendly and helpful.
Dan B — Google review
Lismore Garden in Waterford is a stunning, well-maintained heritage site with vibrant flowerbeds and peaceful walkways. The setting is serene, ideal for a relaxing stroll or quiet reflection. The views of Lismore Castle add a magical touch to the experience. It’s a hidden gem for nature and history lovers alike. Highly recommended for a tranquil day out. Ticket for the garden entry. Adults 10 euros and cards accepted
We loved our visit to the lismore castle and gardens. We spend 4 hours just exploring the lush grounds with all its different trees and flowers. I very much recommend a visit on a sunny day. They do offer a picnic package as well, that we haven't tried yet but will, soon enough. There is a cafe, that serves very good coffee and cakes!
Massive expansion
I went to the gardens years ago and was underwhelmed being honest and decided I wouldn't bother go back again. I went there in June 2025 with a friend and was amazed at all the effort and work that has been put into the walks and gardens since that time. There are nice walks, interesting gardens and lovely views of the castle. They even have 2 large segments of the original Berlin Wall.
Lovely garden, lots of colour and verity in the plants. Well worth a visit. The castle is not open to the public.
Spellbound by the visit. A very interesting garden with completely different areas, Only one thing in common. They are all beautiful
Lovely places, you can having a coffee and pastries 🍰 😀. 10,50 this the prise fir one adult tickets 🎟. You have a vegetables stand.
Beautiful Gardens, but unable to access the castle as its privately owned.
4.6
(594)
4.0
(250)
Lismore, Co. Waterford, P51 F859, Ireland
2Michael G — Google reviewMichael S — Google reviewSherry T — Google reviewBreana M — Google reviewMartin M — Google reviewDaeboy T — Google reviewHoward W — Google review•
Dungarvan Castle
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Museum
A really interesting place to visit if you’re passing through Dungarvan. The castle has been lovingly restored and houses some very informative exhibitions. FREE ENTRY!
Matt K — Google review
It has good parking and plenty of history to enjoy. The castle or fort is in good condition and the display of what it was like for thoes who worked there many years ago is well thought out and helpful. There are great views from the windows and nice walks all around, cheers
The staff member at the Castle (Patrick) was very helpful and made the whole experience better. I would definitely recommend anyone driving through the area to stop by and check it out. Free entry.
I’ve been here twice and both times it’s been closed during “open hours.” It’s Tuesday at 10:25am now, I’m standing in front of the locked doors. I already wasted my trip here, but at least put a sign up, change the website, do something.
I would give it less stars if I had to pay for it BUT that’s unfair. It’s an Irish castle ruin. You’ve probably seen 100 of them. Some Are paid and less impressive or are more Commercial. This is free, being restored, and something to look
At while you wait for your dinner reservations. For those expecting more in the mid county surrounded by restaurants galore, relax your expectations. But the small Tower floor room, I hope the host Events or something because it’s Cozy
Interesting place to learn a little bit about the history of Dungarvan, And its free to the public
Very interesting site from the Norman Castle which is under restoration to the barracks and towers. Video very informative at a basic level, of Ireland's historic struggles. Many photos and explanations of the types of 'policing' in force here. Well worth a visit and free. Thank you
Went in here to get out of the rain. Nice if find that it was free! Spent about an hour exploring the property. Highly recommend a visit when in the area.
4.2
(545)
4.0
(143)
Castle St, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, Ireland
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3Flynn T — Google reviewGreen G — Google reviewValerie R — Google reviewAngel W — Google reviewPaula C — Google reviewNina L — Google reviewAndrew R — Google review•
Clonea Beach
Public beach
Outdoor Activities
Beaches
Beautiful long sandy beach. Great for a walk. Soft sand, nice breeze. You can swim too if the weather is right.
No free parking available, but paid parking is close by. The Greenway passes nearby, so it's ideal if you're cycling. Dungarvan town is just a short drive or cycle away. Clean, calm, and good for a day out.
Christy T — Google review
This long and sandy back is not far from Dungarvan and one sign on the street points towards it. It’s fairly easy to miss, though, as we drove past it at first as well.
Very good beach with plenty of parking and space. Sea is nice and close at high tide and also a natural shallow area for young kids as the tide is going out. Good local shop on the beach with beach toys, pastries, postcards etc and a cafe next door. Good toilets and there is never a need to walk too far too your car.
Nice beach. Few car parks around €5 charge. Clonea beach very clean, sandy beach. Some seaweed. Lots of people. Tide was out. Bins available. Shop at beachfront. Toilets available.
If you are a beach lover, you must visit this beautiful beach
Spotless beach easy parking and handy amenities nearby.
Nice beach. The sand has algae on it most of the time from the tide. When it's hot outside it's nice to go for a swim, but you need to be careful where you step because some parts have rocks at the bottom. There's also quite a few jellyfish around.
Lovely beach, pity about the hotel being closed
4.5
(1784)
4.5
(220)
Clonea, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, Ireland
4Noelle T — Google reviewF N — Google reviewClownky — Google reviewNiamh E — Google reviewKeith K — Google reviewPaweł N — Google reviewJudith R — Google review•
Ballyhoura Horse Trekking
Mentioned on
Equestrian facility
Outdoor Activities
Horseback Riding Tours
Ballyhoura Horse Trekking, situated in Kilfinane, offers a friendly and relaxing horse trekking experience. The treks take you through forest trails with stunning views of the Ballyhoura, Galty and Knockmealdown mountain ranges. Visitors have described it as an amazing experience for both beginners and experienced riders. The horses are well-cared for, the owners are friendly, and the atmosphere is brilliant.
Highly recommend paying a visit here. John Joe was great with the kids and brought them on a wonderful trek. Very well maintained yard and lovely horses. Will definitely go back if we’re in the neighbourhood again.
John C — Google review
I had an amazing ride out with John at Ballyhoura. The trail was a perfect balance of relaxing strolls through the stunning patchwork hillside and thrilling canters through beautiful fields. John tailored the ride perfectly to my level of experience and gave me exciting opportunities to test my skills. I cannot recommend Ballyhoura highly enough to riders of any skill level. An amazing value and can’t miss experience. I can’t wait to go back!! Thank you John!!
Absolutely amazing experience ❤️. Had a fantastic time as a pretty much complete novice, and my experienced riding compagnon had loads of fun as well. Beautiful surroundings and great guide, thanks again!
What a great experience i had with johnny. I was a novice and he looked after me so well. This is a great experience and I will re visit him when I plan my next visit. Thank you Johnny.
Had an excellent experience here with my daughter. Chester was perfect for my daughter and John Joe was so generous with his time. He made the day very special for my daughter, it will be a day she wont forget. Very happy memories made.
Fantastic experience with my family, the adults went on a trek up the mountain and the 3 kids stayed for a lesson, all first timers and all were very well looked after, thank you very much :-)
John is very good teacher, enjoyed very much, will come back soon
Absolutely fantastic! What a great yard and fantastic horses , can't wait to go back
4.8
(37)
5.0
(122)
Thomastown, Co. Limerick, Ireland
5Oksana O — Google reviewBruna B — Google reviewAaron ( — Google reviewSampath P — Google reviewElaine N — Google reviewMichael S — Google reviewTom H — Google review•
Mitchelstown Cave
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
Mitchelstown Cave, discovered in 1833, is a renowned limestone cave in Co. Tipperary, Ireland. It offers guided tours through nearly half a mile of underground passages featuring three massive caverns adorned with stunning dripstone formations, stalactites, stalagmites, and calcite columns. The cave entrance may seem unassuming but leads to an awe-inspiring subterranean world that captivates visitors with its scale and depth.
Outstanding place. Truly amazing experience. The sheer age of some of the formations is mind blowing. One highlight is when they switch the lights off and you're in COMPLETE darkness. Highly recommend this cave to anyone. Not suitable for children under 5 imo.
John H — Google review
Visiting Mitchelstown Cave was an unforgettable experience. The moment you step inside, the outside world disappears – the cool air, the echo of footsteps, and the dramatic rock formations make you feel as though you’ve entered another realm. The Cathedral chamber is especially breathtaking, with its soaring ceiling and incredible natural acoustics.
🔦 Tour & Guides
The guided tour lasted about 45 minutes and was well-paced, full of fascinating history and geology explained in a clear, engaging way. The guide made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable while moving through the chambers.
🧥 Facilities & Comfort
• The cave keeps a steady 12°C all year round – so bring a jumper, even in summer.
• The paths are well-maintained with safe steps and lighting, though sturdy shoes are recommended.
• Parking is available on site, and the entrance area has a small reception where you can buy tickets.
👨👩👧 For Visitors
• Perfect for families, groups, or solo explorers.
• Not suitable for very young children in prams or for visitors with severe mobility issues due to steps.
• Photography is allowed in certain areas, but flash can disturb the atmosphere.
🎶 Special Note
Knowing that concerts are sometimes held inside the Cathedral chamber, I left with a strong wish to come back one day to hear music performed in such a magical space. The acoustics alone would make it unforgettable.
Overall, Mitchelstown Cave is more than just a sightseeing stop – it’s a journey into Ireland’s hidden underworld, perfectly managed for visitors while still preserving its mystery. Highly recommended.
Amazing experience and very fair price. The young lady that guided us was very sweet and knowledgeable. I love the fact that the cave is still family-run since the 1830s. It felt that they make sure to keep it with low commercialisation and asked us to respectfully not touch the walls and the rocks inside. They seem to want to protect it and it’s very nice. Amazing experience and easy walk for someone that isn’t too fit. Maybe an old person can struggle a bit to get down the steps but if slowly it might be doable. I totally recommend!!
Went with three kids and we all enjoyed it very much, the steps down at the start are very steep but we went slow at it was fine. Bring jackets as it a little cold down there 12 degrees all year around. Your guide was wonderful and very knowledgeable.
Visiting Mitchelstown Cave was a truly great experience. The limestone formations are absolutely stunning and give you a real sense of ancient geography and the incredible age of our planet. Standing inside, you really feel how tiny our own lifetime is compared to the history of this cave , just a fraction of a second in the world’s timeline.
The tour guide was excellent, explaining everything clearly and making the history, science, and beauty of the cave easy to understand. It’s a unique natural wonder, well worth visiting, and I am very thankful for the opportunity to experience it.
This is my first time back fo Mitchelstown Caves in the longest time, brought my husband and 2 kids, 5 and 2
Our tour guide, Abbey, was fab, really knowledgeable, really enthusiastic, great with kids.
The caves themselves were fantastic to see, the steps on the way down are so steep, they do warn you before you go in, they are manageable, but as a person who suffers with fear of heights and also being as clumsy as I am. This was hard for me. However that's a personal problem, I just feel it's worth mentioning for people like myself. The cave itself is quite easy to walk through, they are beautiful and the history of the caves etc is quite interesting. It's a beautiful area to visit, with picnic amenities and spotless toilets. The price point if €26 for a family of four absolutely rivals the jet2 holiday experience....iykyk 🤣
Overall a great experience and 100% worth checking out
Very informative tour through an absolutely spectacular cave. Would highly recommend a visit if your in the area. Tickets need to be booked in advance as only small groups enter for the tour each time.
It's fascinating to get a glimpse into history, and how slowly things can change aver thousands of years, while just 20my above, the tech world is.looking to go faster and faster...
Done a couple of caves in the past, found the UV light demonstration very interesting.
Suggestion - try the candle light demonstration to show the power of dark vs. Light.
And the 5th 🌟 - a moment of reflection and perspective of TIME.
4.7
(1292)
4.5
(264)
Coolagarranroe, Co. Tipperary, E21 H920, Ireland
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6Oksana O — Google reviewNikhil K — Google reviewMarie.04 — Google reviewValerie R — Google reviewBarry M — Google reviewKarolina G — Google reviewGizem İ — Google review•
Swiss Cottage
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Architectural Buildings
Swiss Cottage, located in Tipperary, is a charming fairy tale-style cottage built in the early 1800s by Richard Butler. The distinctive building with a thatched roof was carefully restored in 1985 and offers guided tours for visitors to explore its unusual and quirky features. The interior boasts a graceful spiral staircase, parquet floors, and rooms adorned with Parisian wallpapers. Visitors can easily walk from Cahir Castle to Swiss Cottage along the canal, enjoying the spectacular garden and surroundings.
Amazing fairy tale place! The guided tour it makes even more interesting! The cottage is amazing from inside out! Defo recommend to visit! Hidden gem!
Sveta M — Google review
I can’t stop thinking about this place. The moment we reached the Swiss Cottage after a peaceful walk through the park, it felt like we had stepped into a dream — like time slowed down and we were invited into a quiet, magical world from another era. I’ve honestly never seen anything like it. That wavy thatched roof, the carved woodwork, the romantic little windows… everything is so beautifully and intentionally whimsical. And the interior? Pure poetry — especially those rare Parisian wallpapers and the elegant spiral staircase. Every room whispers a story.
It’s not just architecture — it’s an emotion. A place designed simply for beauty, music, laughter, and tea… I keep daydreaming about sitting on that veranda, sipping tea, and watching the trees sway in the breeze. I think I left a little piece of my heart there.
A true architectural miracle that I’ll never forget.
Definitely recommend at least one time to see this
- Cottage is quite beautiful. I had a guided tour, good to hear stories about the cottage
- Staffs were very welcoming and polite.
- Free car Parking
- i felt so greenery and peaceful. Because surrounding was so peaceful and so much greenery.
The cottage is absolutely beautiful. We did the self-guided tour which was enough for us. You can’t get inside the cottage, but you can still see the rooms on the ground floor through the windows and there’s pictures of the 2 rooms on the first floor so you don’t really miss out on much.
The staff were very friendly and helpful!
Really interesting tour about restoration of cottage, history of the house & previous owners. Would recommend. Nice grounds surrounding. Parking nearby, 10 min walk from carpark.
Absolutely stunning. What a hidden gem. Well informed welcoming tour guide. Tastefully restored and beautifully preserved. Can't believe I've missed it in the forty plus years I've visited Cahir
Absolutely beautiful place! Worth to see, specially inside. Great guide, lots of interesting details. Really nice to see place like this touched with care and love. Highly recommend to visit!
It truly feels like a Smurfs’ village, beautifully intertwined with nature and incredibly scenic. There’s even a guide who shares fascinating stories about the history of the place.
4.5
(754)
4.5
(364)
Grange More, Cahir, Co. Tipperary, Ireland
7Tara H — Google reviewВіктор — Google reviewRebecca D — Google reviewA. U — Google reviewE G — Google reviewAnna P — Google reviewKyle B — Google review•
Cahir Castle
Mentioned on
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Cahir Castle, located in Cahir, County Tipperary, Ireland, is a 12th-century fortress situated on a river island. Originally built by Conor O'Brien in 1142 and later acquired by the Butler family, it boasts impressive defensive features such as a keep, moat, massive walls with turrets, mullioned windows, and dungeons. The castle's history includes an attack in 1599 that shattered its walls and is explained through a large model on display.
The guided tour is informative and helps you picture how life here looked centuries ago, from battles to daily routines. Even without a tour, the information panels are clear and easy to follow.
Practical tips for visitors:
• Tickets: Affordable, with discounts for families. You can also get a combined ticket with the nearby Swiss Cottage, which I highly recommend – it’s only a short scenic walk away.
• Facilities: Small gift shop with local books and souvenirs. Toilets are on-site and clean.
• Accessibility: Some areas have steep stairs and uneven ground, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Parking: Free and close to the entrance.
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful light for photos.
If you love history, film locations, or just want a peaceful day trip, Cahir Castle delivers.
Oksana O — Google review
Visited Cahir Castle on a Friday en route to Killarney. We opted for a self-guided tour at our pace, having read it's history prior to arrival. We were able to explore several rooms within the castles interior, much of which has been restored, but it was still a great experience. Staff are very friendly and provided a map of the castle grounds for easy navigation. Parking was convenient near the castle and there are restaurants across the street for a quick bite or sit-down meal.
I like this place. I find it very peaceful and romantic because of animals and birds in this park. There is also a nice castle here with a river and bridges where you can have a wonderful walk. During the sunset this scenery is incredible. In my opinion even rain haters can start love the rain here.
Fantastic visit 😀 free entry the first Wednesday of each month which was a bonus. The grounds are lovely on a clear day or morning 🌄 and exploring the castle was fascinating! We walked around alone and could explore every tower and room! Brave heart and Excalibur films were shot here and the grounds are in great shape. Be mindful of how steep the stairs are and if you dont like tight spaces or spiders, avoid the dungeon area! Overall a lovely way to spend about an hour and a half. So glad we added it onto our itinerary ! 😌
This was one of our favourite castles we saw on our Ireland trip.
We enjoyed the self guided tour. Each room had good explanations of what we were looking at. And so much of the castle was open to walk around and explore.
We purchased a tour and this was the first stop. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and welcoming. So much history here. Beautiful kept grounds. There was a lot of walking but we'll worth it. I wish had a little more time there but we were able to see a lot of the grounds.
A beautiful castle that has survived to this day. I recommend this place to visit
It is one of the largest castles in Ireland, standing on the banks of the River Shur. The castle was built by the Irish clan O'Brien in 1142, the chief of the clan, Conor O'Brien, who was also king of the Irish kingdom of Thomond.
One of the most wonderful spots I’ve visited in Ireland. The castle is really well preserved,a dream for both kids and adults alike. I went up and down every stair and loved every bit of it. Hard to believe it’s only €5 — such a brilliant experience. Would absolutely recommend it to anyone ❤️
4.6
(6054)
4.5
(725)
Castle St, Townparks, Cahir, Co. Tipperary, E21 P652, Ireland
8Dan B — Google reviewMoon S — Google reviewLewis G — Google reviewKieran M — Google reviewBeth — Google reviewSiguirit L — Google reviewChristopher C — Google review•
Reginald’s Tower
Mentioned on
Museum
Historical landmark
Reginald's Tower is a 13th-century circular waterside defense tower in Waterford, Ireland. It is part of the Viking Triangle, an area that offers key attractions such as the House of Waterford Crystal and the award-winning Medieval Museum. The tower has Anglo-Norman origins and was originally part of a Viking fort, making it about 1000 years old.
We flew to Ireland to join a bus tour of Ireland. Started in Dublin, then toured the island and finished in Dublin. It was a great tour.
One of the stops was Waterford where we first toured the glass factory and then had lots of time to walk around the waterfront area. Lots of history here.
Reginald’s Tower is a very picturesque 1300th century tower down by the
Waterfront. Busy with tourists taking pictures.
Perry H — Google review
We were not sure whether to pay to go in, but we are glad we did, and found that children under about 12 are free.
A really helpful and welcoming member of staff when we entered, then after climbing all the way to the top watched a really informative video about the history of the tower and Viking Triangle and Waterford. Plus good views of the waterfront through the small windows!
Lots of information boards on the remaining 2 floors - plus I enjoyed the Lego models on the ground floor!
There's also a canon ball from 1650 lodged in the outside of the wall. So lots of see - our kids enjoyed it. I guess we had about 30-45 mins there.
Been visiting and then living here in Waterford for years but never visited this tower. This particular day had free admission so we popped in. I would gladly pay the small admission fee though, it was so interesting. It is the root to Waterford's history and how the city began. Highly recommend joining the guided tour (approx 50mins) rather then self guided, you can ask questions and gain many more interesting fact. Unfortunately I've forgotten the young ladies name who guided us but she worked at the Book of Kells last year (I learnt more interesting facts about this too), she was charming, friendly and passionate, thank you.
Any tourist coming to Waterford, do not miss this.
Small but interesting tower with exhibits and a video showing the initial history and settlement of Waterford, as well as the building of the tower. £5 each which was reasonable. Just take care on the step & mind your head!
This is a simple but excellent attraction- affordable, interesting, and great place to start in Waterford! It gives a breakdown of the history, local landmarks, and an overview of the whole city.
The spiral stairs in particular is excellent!
Very small but cool museum. It explains the history of the Vikings, Normans, and the English as they founded Waterford and fight over it through the ages.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Incredible place where history feels alive 🏰✨
Reginald’s Tower was one of the highlights of my time in Waterford. Knowing this was the exact spot where the Vikings founded Ireland’s first city made it feel so special. The name Waterford comes from the old Norse word Veðrafjǫrðr(meaning something like windy fjord) 🌊⚔️.Standing there, I truly felt like I was in the middle of that history.
The tower is small but powerful. It’s the oldest civic building in Ireland 🇮🇪 and has been everything from a Viking stronghold to a Norman fort, a mint, a prison, and more. You can still see the original stonework, and touching those ancient walls gave me a strange but amazing feeling — like I was connected to the people who stood there centuries ago 🪨🕰️. Deffo, I will go back to take more pictures 😆 My phone died.
If you're in the oldest city in Ireland, it's worth seeing and learning where it all started. It's a quick video and self-guided tour that lasts about 30 minutes. Our family found it neat and our group ranged from 11 - 70 in age.
Definitely worth the stop while in Waterford!
4.6
(587)
4.4
(674)
The Quay, Waterford, Ireland
9Victoria — Google reviewRichard É — Google reviewErin W — Google reviewPraneet R — Google reviewA ( — Google reviewJarod G — Google reviewJo G — Google review•
Jerpoint Abbey
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Sacred & Religious Sites
Jerpoint Abbey, located about 2.5km southwest of Thomastown on the N9 in Kilkenny, Ireland, is a well-preserved Cistercian abbey dating back to the 12th century. The abbey is renowned for its intricate medieval stone carvings, including unique and often amusing figures of humans and animals adorning the pillars around the cloister.
One of the places which you need to put on your do list. Great historical place, great facilities and amazing staff. You will be very impressed for sure especially with the tours, the tour guides have impressed knowledge and passion. I really recommend it.
Dominika B — Google review
12th century Abbey ruin, some of it is still intact. Very grand and impressive. Tickets are very affordable. Kids get a small present after they find symbols. Worth a visit! ❤️
It was an enlightening experience. Always Abbey ruins make me sad. Jerpoint Abbey has some interesting features not found in other monasteries. There is a strong connection here with The Knights Templar.
Michelle at reception was very helpful and kindly gave us a nice concise overview of its history.
Awe inspiring abbey dating back many centuries includes medieval carved stone, paintings and even crypts. Well versed historian on site for private tour and questions. One of a kind!
Jerpoint Abbey is an absolute gem nestled in County Kilkenny’s lush countryside. The twelfth-century Cistercian ruins remain remarkably intact, inviting exploration beneath lofty arches, graceful cloisters, and serene chapter rooms. Delicately carved stone figures and vivid biblical panels adorn the cloister arcade, each telling its own story and rewarding lingering inspection. The enthusiastic guides weave local legend and history into captivating commentary, yet give visitors space to wander at their own pace. Interpretive displays are concise and informative, and the small visitor centre sells excellent guidebooks and Irish crafts. Free parking, spotless facilities, and peaceful grounds dotted with wildflowers complete the experience. Plan at least an hour to absorb its timeless magic. You will leave inspired and eager to return.
Lovely! We were able to do Jerpoint & Tintern Abbey in the am. Both are definitely worth visiting. Tintern has more inside than Jerpoint but the courtyard here, imagining the stone carvings in full color, just remarkable! The hands of time have taken their toll but it remains a heavenly place.
We LOVED this site!! Amazing and helpful staff, the site is in fantastic shape. We learned so much and left feeling inspired and amazed at what was accomplished here. 100% worth your time.
One of my favorite ruins to see when visitors come over. They have a special treasure hunt for children - matching the pictures with the real carvings or art at the location. Easy to find and free parking.
4.6
(872)
4.5
(660)
Jockeyhall, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny, R95 P523, Ireland
10Joell G — Google reviewDanielle H — Google reviewDr. F — Google reviewMrCopper K — Google reviewFrank M — Google reviewCarol M — Google reviewAbid — Google review•
Nenagh Castle
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Historical landmark
Castles
Nenagh Castle is a 13th-century limestone structure featuring a prominent cylindrical keep and rich historical significance. The Norman keep, standing over 30 meters high, boasts a stone spiral staircase with 101 steps leading to the top. Visitors can access the tower for free and explore its four floors, culminating in an open-air area offering stunning views of Nenagh and the surrounding countryside.
Built is the early 1200's this is a stunning small castle, in lovely grounds, it is free to enter which is always a plus, the castle (walled) gardens are also worth a visit as is the cathedral, there is even a public toilet near the entrance.
V H — Google review
What a nice historic spot to happen upon! We saw the top of the castle from a few blocks away and decided to find it. When we arrived, we found the castle open and the tours were free! Nice perk!
Great stop for a good view over Nenagh, lovely park with benches for a nice spot to sit and have a coffee if the weather is good. There is beautiful gardens off to the side too. When the castle is open , it is an insightful visit that can teach you loads about the towns history. The view from the roof is great. Stairs are narrow and steep, just take them slow. The restoration work is great
Well-maintained castle with free entry. We spent approximately 90 minutes there and enjoyed the adventurous climb up the 101 steps. There are spectacular views of the town from the top.
Highly recommended!!
A great place to visit to stretch your legs while passing by the city. There is a few fly of stairs that lead you to the top. There is a guided tour upon request and all is for free. Caution, very narrow fly of stairs just in case you are claustrophobic.
Top has an amazing view of th city.
Fantastic ancient castle within easy walking distance of town centre. Lovely gardens surrounding area where you can sit down and have a bite to eat or a chat to pass the time. Castle is over 4 floors with the final to the open air affording excellent views of Nenagh and surrounding countryside. Free entry. Information signs and leaflets very beneficial. Parking nearby.
You can’t beat free!!! If you’re anywhere near the area, even just as a quick stop on your way to somewhere else, this is a neat place to stop. Plus, I had it all to myself!
I'd love to come another time to climb up there when it's open. It's huge, clean and historical.
4.6
(597)
4.5
(136)
O'Rahilly, O'Rahilly St, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary, Ireland
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11Sethuraman M — Google reviewNicole P — Google reviewEduard — Google reviewOleksandr P — Google reviewAlex B — Google reviewKeith S — Google reviewAustin H — Google review•
Kilkenny Castle
Mentioned on
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Kilkenny Castle, located in the county town of Kilkenny, is a riverside castle with a beautifully restored interior that offers tours to visitors. The castle is surrounded by a large garden and features an art gallery and tearoom. The town itself boasts Ireland's most preserved Medieval center, along with the impressive Castle and Cathedral.
I really enjoyed visiting Kilkenny Castle. The castle is beautiful, well maintained, and full of history. The grounds are spacious and very peaceful, perfect for a walk and photos.
One small issue is the parking. There is street parking right outside, but it only allows a maximum of one hour. I think that’s not sufficient, because the castle and gardens take at least two hours to fully enjoy. It would be great if longer parking options were available nearby.
Subin J — Google review
Impressive Castle, Just Be Prepared for the Crowds!
A fantastic visit to the magnificent Kilkenny Castle. The building itself is beautifully restored, and the self-guided tour through the various rooms, especially the Long Gallery, is fascinating and well worth the price of admission. The sprawling parklands surrounding the castle are an absolute highlight – perfect for a walk, a picnic, or just letting the kids run around. It's a true gem in the heart of the city.
The reason for docking one star comes down to logistics. We went on a weekend, and it was incredibly crowded, and we had to wait in a queue for a while to get in. Be prepared for that if you're not visiting on a weekday. The biggest challenge, however, is parking. Most of the on-street parking nearby is limited to a maximum of 1 hour, which is simply not enough time to explore the castle and grounds without constantly clock-watching. You're better off finding a car park a bit further away and walking.
Overall, it is a must-see piece of Irish history. Just plan ahead for the potential crowds and parking situation to make your visit stress-free!
Beautiful, well maintained castle with lovely grounds. It was a great way to spend a couple rainy hours. There's a QR coffee at reach room so you can very more information on your phone. There's washrooms and a cafe at the castle as well. Our was about €11 to get in.
I really enjoyed my visit to Kilkenny Castle. The rooms are beautifully restored and give you a real sense of the history. The exhibitions are well explained and easy to follow. The gardens and park are peaceful and perfect for a walk, with lovely views of the River Nore. Everything was well organized, and the staff were very friendly. Overall, a real highlight of my stay in Kilkenny and highly recommended.
Nice castle, there are a lot of original furnitures and paintings, many languages printed guides. Enteance fee is 8 euro. You are to use one of the town parkings in vicinity. Enjoy!
We visited on a busy Saturday afternoon with tickets purchased online ahead of time. Theres a very large park connected to the castle that we walked around and explored for a while before our 4:00pm self guided tour. We spent 30 minutes inside walking around the castle taking pictures and finished our tour in the castle gardens full of flowers. We recommend the tour, though we personally enjoyed the castle from the outside more so than the inside as not much of it is original anymore.
Kilkenny Castle is absolutely stunning! The architecture is jaw-dropping, with beautifully preserved rooms that pull you right into its rich history. The guided tour is top-notch—super informative and packed with fun anecdotes. The sprawling parklands around the castle are perfect for a relaxing stroll, and the views are just gorgeous. The staff are warm and welcoming, making the whole experience a joy. Highly recommend visiting!
If you’re in the town, you must go. The grounds are well kept and it was good for a rainy day. If the weather was better, the gardens would be nice to walk around and have a picnic. They did a great job with information so you dont have to have a guided tour if you dont want.
4.7
(14092)
4.5
(6754)
The Parade, Dukesmeadows, Kilkenny, R95 YRK1, Ireland
12Kayla K — Google reviewJessica T — Google reviewMo — Google reviewSVC — Google reviewYeoh L — Google reviewEva V — Google reviewJacob T — Google review•
Smithwick's Experience
Mentioned on
Food & Drink
Brewery
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Kilkenny and its iconic brewery at the Smithwick's Experience. This interactive guided tour takes you through an 18th-century brewery, offering a fascinating insight into the heritage and brewing process of Smithwick's ale. Explore holographics, old machinery, and hops while being guided by passionate locals with deep roots in the brewery.
Great tour of an iconic brewery. It’s on the more “experience” end of tours, so more history and well polished exhibits. Tour guide Niamh was excellent, and answered all of our difficult and ridiculous questions. If you’re in Kilkenny you have to do it, well worth it. And definitely upgrade for the flight of beer.
Dan R — Google review
This experience is well worth the stop if you are in Kilkenny. Our tour guide was fantastic (i feel terrible i have forgotten her name) and did an amazing job leading us through the history and science that is Smithwick's. The tour is very interactive and has a great production value. It is super engaging and interacting which was great as it was our 3rd brewery tour on our vacation. I highly recommend checking out the cream ale at the end of your tour. Absolutely delicious!!!
You must do this.
We walked in and got a spot on a tour at noon. We brought our 5year old with us (kids <6 are free) and even he enjoyed most parts of it. Our tour guide, Simon, was absolutely excellent - full of knowledge and very well spoken on the history and story of Smithwick's. He made the experience really phenomenal.
At the end, the barrel room for tasting was really great - comfortable and great service.
I HIGHLY recommend this experience - and keep an eye out for the pamphlets with the 10% off QR code! They're all over Kilkenny (and ireland in general).
A solid tour of Smithwick's in Kilkenny - given by Daragh. He was both entertaining and informative! The history was very interesting, and the "picture room" was very cool. Literally moving pictures - and quite well done. The tasting experience, of the ingredients used in making beer, was a nice touch. And the beers afterwards, in the taproom, were well received and poured. Worth the visit, indeed!
We easily booked online. The guide did a good job in presenting the history of the city, brewing and business. The conclusion of the story can be unexpected, if you did not document upfront. Just a museum, not a live brewery anymore. Nice videos and interactions during the tour , it is touchy feely smelly. The price was a bit high in the end for 40 minutes of tour and one beer. The Kilkenny beer might have been the first served on that day, it was mostly foam and quite flat. Also, too cold in the tasting room and with very cold beer , hard to drink.
Joined this beer brewing tour and guided by Colin which gave us a very detail walk through history of brewing business by Smethwick family in kilkenny highly recommended if you ever visit kilkenny tour will take about 45 minutes and it comes with a complimentary beer at the end of the tour
A pleasantly surprising, educational and interactive, entertaining experience. Our young guide was funny and knowledgeable, and the modern sensory elements were delightful. The best part was smelling all the components and then getting to taste the flight of all of Smithwicks' best beers at the end!
Your was pretty good, I learned a lot about the Smithwicks history. The brewing isn't actually done in Kilkenny anymore, so a lot of the tour is of models of brewing equipment instead of the running brewery.
And of course, got to drink plenty of beer!
4.6
(1334)
4.7
(2941)
44 Parliament St, Gardens, Kilkenny, R95 VK54, Ireland
13Annie J — Google reviewPaul H — Google reviewA ( — Google reviewJustin M — Google reviewBrice S — Google reviewPatrick W — Google reviewNicole P — Google review•
St Canice's Cathedral
Mentioned on
Cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
St Canice's Cathedral is a 13th-century Catholic cathedral located in Kilkenny, Ireland. It is the second-largest cathedral in the country and has been well-preserved through careful restoration efforts. Adjacent to the cathedral is a 9th-century round tower with panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside, which can be reached by climbing its 121 steps. The cathedral, along with Kilkenny Castle, forms part of Ireland's best-preserved medieval town center.
Beautiful cathedral in the heart of Kilkenny. I recommend the guided audio tour. An incredible amount of history within the Canice Cathedral.
We opted for the cathedral and tower combination tour. If you are afraid of heights or have any balance/knee issues, the tower is definitely not for you.
Javier G — Google review
This medieval church is really beautiful and amazingly old!
We also climbed the round tower, which was a one-of-kind experience with great views. Dating from the 9th century, it is hard to believe it’s still standing, let alone that you can climb to the top.
A beautiful piece of history — With a Heart-Pounding Climb"
St. Canice’s Cathedral is absolutely stunning, both inside and out. The architecture, stained glass, and centuries of history make it a place you can feel as much as see.
We decided to climb the Round Tower — and wow, what an experience. The ladders inside are steep and narrow, and I’ll be honest, it was pretty terrifying on the way up. But when you step out onto the platform at the top, the view takes your breath away (in a much better way!). You can see the castle, the River Nore, and the countryside for miles.
If you’re visiting Kilkenny and the weather is dry, don’t miss it — it’s an unforgettable combination of history, beauty, and just the right amount of adrenaline.
A highlight of our first 16-day trip to Ireland & still remaining a highlight after our second 1 week trip to Ireland! The fact you could go up to the top of the tower was awesome! What a view! It blew Kilkenny Castle out of the park for me. I even preferred Cahir Castle to Kilkenny Castle. This cute Cathedral though, with its lovely little round tower, perfection!! Sept 8, 2024.
Has to be on your list of places to see in Killkenny. We have been up to.tge castle many times and missed St Candice's.
There is a small car park across the road, and a family ticket was around €24. Note you can visit just the Cathedral, or the Cathedral & round tower. I would highly recommend you don't skip the tower, but do not there are ladders and tight areas on the accent!!
The cathedral itself is a a peaceful place to explore. Lots of interesting people buried in tombs, with information displayed as u explore. There are a few bits to keep the kids busy, wooden blocks to build a cathedral and some drawings. The cathedral also contains the red book of ossory. If I'm honest while it has huge historical significance, it's not much to look at 😂
The round tower is located directly adjacent to the cathedral. The enyrave is up a metal ladder. There is an attendant sitting just inside the tower, they will tell you if you if you need to wait based on who is already inside. Once u start climbing you will understand why rate limiting is so important! It's narrow/low and sometimes difficult on places. If u are a large person I'd avoid. The view from the top is great!!!
Good spot to visit, don't skip it for the castle.
Absolutely beautiful cathedral. There's so much history here and they do a wonderful job of walking you through it all.
Fantastic old cathedral on a hill overlooking Kilkenny city, well worth a visit!
The pictures don’t do justice to the beauty of the Cathedral. The history is amazing, old tombs included.
4.6
(2505)
4.4
(1723)
Coach Rd, Gardens, Kilkenny, Ireland
14Maximilian W — Google reviewAnna — Google reviewJenny R — Google reviewPauric M — Google reviewMG_Decentra — Google reviewAlan M — Google reviewSylas P — Google review•
Bob's Bar
Mentioned on
affordable
Irish pub
Bob's Bar, located in the charming Heritage town of Durrow, is known for its warm and unique welcome from the owners. The pub offers a friendly atmosphere and hosts traditional music sessions that attract visitors from near and far. The establishment features various rooms adorned with artifacts, creating a museum-like ambiance. Additionally, it boasts outdoor seating by the river and is conveniently situated on the main street close to amenities.
We held our wedding party in Bob's bar for 130 people with food by Bosco. Bob couldn't have been more helpful and provided great advice to ensure we had a fantastic day.
Roibeárd P — Google review
Bobs Bar is beautifully located directly next to the river with a cozy beer garden for sunny days (if it happens here in Ireland). The Bar has a lot of charm and history and we had the pleasure to meet Bob himself, who was so friendly to show us around. Perfect for a drink and some music.
Discover a charming riverside spot perfect for relaxation, with cozy benches and tables set near the bridge. Enjoy the peaceful scenery — and don’t miss the chance to savor a refreshing pint along the way. Highly recommended!
We had our Day 2 wedding celebrations at Bob’s Bar this September and it was absolutely perfect! The pub has so much character and the outdoor space by the river is gorgeous. Bob and the whole team were all so friendly and welcoming. Thank you for helping us create such special memories, we couldn’t have asked for a better venue or team to help us continue our wedding celebrations, we all had so much fun!
On our travels to Durrow sightseeing the Castle and church in the square, decided to walk to Bob's bar. Strolled in on a Monday night and not a sinner in the place. Had a pint of guinness and a few snacks and walked around the pub to see the different rooms, alot of different artifacts to view, it's a bar and a museum, they do have a few TV's dotted around, nice outdoor area beside the river and located on the main street close to all amenities. My second time to visit this bar, first was in 2018 serving food for a wedding. A nice pub in a quiet town, will return.
The young lads behind the bar need abit more training on their barman skills. A bit more craic they could be. They also need to sort out the lighting, the bulbs over the bar are far too bright and glarey. Takes away from the whole pub atmosphere. Our experience of the place was just ok.
An old school country pub. Nice staff and friendly atmosphere. A must visit if in Durrow.
Very unique bar. Plenty space to sit around and admire old staff. Lovely barbeque area at the back by the river. Conference room upstairs.
4.8
(368)
4.5
(72)
The Square, Durrow Townparks, Durrow, Co. Laois, R32 YY38, Ireland
15Tina R — Google reviewRazorbaby2552 — Google reviewP.J. M — Google reviewSharon C — Google reviewMarsha M — Google reviewManuel C — Google reviewMeg K — Google review•
Leap Castle, Ireland
Mentioned on
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Leap Castle in Ireland is a 16th-century fortress that has a violent and tragic past, which many believe has left it haunted. While the castle may appear small on the inside due to its abundance of tables and gadgets, visitors should not miss the opportunity to explore the top floor for a breathtaking view and a visit to the first-floor bedroom. The castle's tour guide, Shawn, is known for sharing all of its stories with visitors.
Great experience. No entry fee, donations to support the castle restoration are encouraged. Castle owner provides a guided tour and tells the history of the castle, local area and Irish traditions. Open daytime and worth every minute you spend there. Great view from the 3rd floor.
Barbara S — Google review
One of the most haunted castles in Europe with a dark history. It was nice to be able to walk through and see how the owner Sean has kept it over the last 20+ years. A must see!
This is a drive up castle to get out and take pictures. I do not belive you can go inside the castle. Someone does live there. It is a nice castle.
A step back in time to a castle steeped in history. Sean, the owner has spent his life restoring the castle bit by bit. It was a shame I'd had car trouble that day, causing me to arrive only 30 mins prior to closure at 5:00. Do contact Sean in advance as a courtesy before you arrive, as it is their family home, as well as Castle. See the many videos there on You Tube about Leap Castle in advance, so you'll be somewhat aware of the history of this special place. Contact Sean by email. His contact address is on the official website, where you'll also find even further info about the Castle.
If your in to true history of castles, this may be a small one but the old guy who owns it lives there! He tells a good history story, hands you a flashlight and allows you to go up the narrow dark stairs to check it out. Must see. €6 to walk through but ring the doorbell first. A lot of artifacts to check out. Not for kids or people with small space anxiety.
Amazing castle ruin being refurbished by a true Irishman. The host was full of great historical information and even played the whistle for us. One of the best stops on our trip! Make sure you bring cash for the $6 suggested donation.
5 stars expérience. Sean was a great host and sharing is knowledge about the castle history was really interesting to listen to to.
Visiting the castle was also impressive since he as done all the restoration by himself. Just make sure you knock at the door of the castle on arrival since the ring bell ain’t working.
My grandaughter wanted to experience 'the most haunted castle in Ireland' . It's in a beautiful location & has an interesting story, as well as some lovely antiques in a partially restored castle
4.6
(594)
4.5
(163)
EIRCODE ? R421, Leap, Roscrea, Co. Offaly, Ireland
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16Frank M — Google reviewOlive K — Google reviewJoe C — Google reviewRazorbaby2552 — Google reviewAoife K — Google reviewЮлия — Google reviewJade K — Google review•
Birr Castle Demesne
Mentioned on
Garden
Nature & Parks
Birr Castle Demesne is a stunning destination featuring award-winning gardens, rare trees, and peaceful rivers. The 50-hectare grounds are famous for their magnificent gardens set around a large artificial lake. Visitors can explore the castle's living quarters on tours during the summer months and learn about its rich history dating back to 1620. Additionally, the demesne houses a science center with a 19th-century telescope, offering insights into science and engineering history.
Outstanding historical site and home of Earls of Ross. Recommend half a day for this visit. The self guided museum tour is what we did and it was excellent. We went outside, walked around the gardens and saw the telescope. You need a few hours to spend in the gardens and you could do lunch there or bring a picnic. excellent educational value. Th third Earl of Ross designed built and used the telescope and the fourth Earl of Ross invented the steam turbine.
Marie H — Google review
A "must see" if you're in Birr. Over 120 acres of buildings, walks, lakes and woods to explore. Entry fee is €12 pp and well worth it if you have a few hours to spare. Science Hall is a highlight as it features historical instruments on display. A really great attraction. Parking nearby.
Love Birr Castle, part of our heritage. It's beautiful gardens and walkways offer peace and serenity along with amazing colours. Fabulous places to sit and meditate and enjoy life and it's surroundings ar it's Best.
Stopped off in Birr today and was not disappointed. A beautiful and historic place. A gardens are wonderful and the telescope, playground and castle itself are impressive. Hard to believe that from 1845-1914 this remained the largest telescope in the world! We didn’t get to sample the cafe but it looked good and the staff on reception were lovely - oh and for August children go free!!
Loved this castle experiences. My dad and I did the castle tour. Highly recommend it! It is awesome and the family still lives in the castle. They were amazing and super friendly!
Its amazing, loads to see and do. Just did a tour of the house, wow. The science centre is a must see and the gardens and history are amazing. The Patterson family have done such an amazing job keeping the place open for visitors. The cafe has beautiful buns and food and all the staff are gorgeous
Incredible landscape beauty, a lovely park, and the grandeur of the castle. You can walk for hours and even have a picnic surrounded by nature.
Only had time to walk around the gardens which are gorgeous during autumn time, worth a visit for a relaxing day, need to come back and visit the castle!
4.6
(3911)
4.3
(901)
Rosse Row, Townparks, Birr, Co. Offaly, R42 V027, Ireland
17Mar O — Google reviewDiarmuid W — Google reviewDeirdre S — Google reviewTilly's W — Google reviewGavin R — Google reviewMichelle B — Google reviewMike F — Google review
Rancho Reillys Campsite
Mentioned on
Camping farm
Sights & Landmarks
Rancho Reilly Pet Farm, located in Graiguecullen, is a family-friendly destination offering a variety of activities for kids. The four-acre farmland features a pet farm with ponies, miniature goats, rabbits, cows, reindeer, pot-bellied pigs and various birds. In addition to typical farm animals like sheep and pigs, the petting farm also houses snakes and bearded dragons for the more adventurous visitors.
Lots of confusion here with the name etc. So it's still rancho reilly. Rustic is gone. It's a campsite only but has its own pet farm. The old main building is gone due to a fire. We have a new sole owner the amazing Eoin whom is the host with the most. A lot of investment has gone into updating the site and its very visible. Playground loads new stuff. New cafe that doubles as a common area. Toilets are maintained throughout the day. The free frog hunt and tractor rides are a great unique touch. Eoin travels the campsite over the weekend having fun with all the guests eg playing football, tennis even raced a bunch of us and yes he won. You can't help but want him and rr to succeed and excell. We thought we would just go this once but are already planning our return. Nearest shops are 3 mins drive away. One pic is of kt fight that was put up on a big screen in the camping area (not sure whom organised but thank you). Highly recommended to all families.
Cronan B — Google review
Just spent 3 nights here. Overall a very enjoyable experience. Great spot for families. Kids really enjoyed it especially the animal petting farm. They loved the play ground and tractor ride. Lots to keep them entertained. Also great entertainment for adults including bingo and music in the evenings. Nice selection of hot food in the shop at a reasonable price. Staff were very friendly and accommodating to our large group. Very relaxed and friendly campsite! Toilets and showers were ok. No toilet paper or soap available which was an inconvenience but other than that we had no complaints!
Will definitely be back
So glad ranchos has reopened, had a great weekend. Eoin, oisin and the team have done a great job cleaning and rebuilding it, the new cafe is a great addition and the menu is perfect and delicious. Can't wait to see what else they add. Tractor ride is great not just for kids but and its free and that includes the muddy pool they drive into.
We stayed one night as we were passing through the area. Eoin was very welcoming, the site was well laid out, good lighting to the toilets( which are a bit rustic but kept clean and tidy).
The animals were a huge hit with the kids and the play area.
Fantastic place to go camping with young children! You have access to the petting farm with horses, pigs, deer, snakes, lizards, rabbits etc, horse rides, tractor rides, playground, cafe and indoors play zone all included in the price you pay to camp. In the evening there is a frog hunt, fire pits, it is a really good place to visit. The only reason I didn't give 5 stars was because of the water was not reliable for showers etc
Visited in April 2017 with our two kids 7 and 4. Very good value - €6 per child and €3 per adult. No time limit, spend as long as you like. Has lots of attractions all free - playground, petting zoo (bunnies, snakes, lizards), donkey and pony rides, go cart track, sandpits, farm animals to feed, indoor play center and café with hot food and lots of seating with reasonable food prices but also picnic areas if you want to bring your own.
Staff were very friendly. When my daughter was upset after spilling a drink the owner spent over 10 mins joking with her to cheer her up and gave both kids a free lollipop. Lots of free parking too.
Highly recommended.
Great day out for family's.... All the staff are so friendly. Its great value for money and plenty activities for the kids. Wear wellies and old clothes ;-)
The owner is an absolute gent. As a venue it's a bit rough around the edges but the kids loved it. Loads of animals to interact with and a massive play ground. They even have a tractor ride.
18Jo G — Google reviewDerek — Google reviewSue F — Google reviewJohn K — Google reviewD C — Google reviewNataliya N — Google reviewLinda C — Google review•
Delta Sensory Gardens
Mentioned on
Garden
Nature & Parks
Cafe
Delta Sensory Gardens, located in Strawhall Industrial Estate, cover two-and-a-half acres of land and feature 16 interconnected sensory gardens. These gardens were designed to be a therapeutic outlet for adults with disabilities and offer a stunning collection of individual themed gardens with sensory elements that engage visitors from all angles. The center also includes a garden center selling plants, garden furniture, and equipment, as well as a casual dining spot.
Love this place for its beautiful setting. With every visit you can find something new and beautiful. 6 euro ticket for adults. Carers go free with one ticket paid
Anna G — Google review
The cafe has some lovely simple meals and free onsite parking is conveniently close to the entrance. The design elements and art displayed are very tasteful and add to the sensory experience of the garden. The water features and waterful are very peaceful spots. After 17 hours of flights and travel the children enjoyed the garden and were noticeably more relaxed after oir time in the garden.
Only €5 entry and it's stunning how so much has been included in the Delta Sensory Garden. It was our second time visiting and it is absolutely recommended to go visit for an hour or so to explore the maze of gardens.
Fabulous hidden gem in Carlow for an afternoon ramble (with or without the kids). Has a lovely cafe and sells locally produced baked goods and crafts.
Loved my visit here to the Delta Sensory Gardens. Plenty to see in these impressive gardens and I had a great coffee and scone in the cafe. Well worth checking out, especially on a fine day like I had. Thanks to Helen for the recommendation 😁
A beautiful place to visit. Suitable for all ages. Fabolous gardens and sensory water features
A superb place for relaxation and calm down. Each of the twenty featured objects and gardens is accurately designed and brought to life.
The Gardens are beautiful, peaceful and also fun, whether you have additional Sensory needs or not they are worth a visit. Nice bright Cafe for a cuppa and a sweet treat after exploring the gardens
4.8
(862)
4.8
(212)
Strawhall Industrial Estate, Strawhall, Carlow, R93 Y959, Ireland
19Rob S — Google reviewOliver S — Google reviewHome X — Google reviewGreg E — Google reviewTia P — Google reviewMichael D — Google reviewKim T — Google review•
Rock of Dunamase
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
Geologic Formations
Rock of Dunamase is a 12th-century castle ruin located in a serene country setting, offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. Managed by Tom & Marie Treacy, this family-run establishment is known for its quality food made from fresh local ingredients. The climb to the top provides panoramic vistas and ample space for exploration, making it suitable for visitors of all ages. The ruins hold historical significance as they were once home to Norman lord Strongbow and his wife Aoife.
This castle ruin is located off a main road so easy to find. It is up a hill but not difficult to walk. Definitely with the visit, especially for the views.
Michelle B — Google review
If you enjoy ruins then you must see this. It's an amazing set up on a hill that overlooks the countryside. The remaining ruins are set in three sections each have some hidden gems. Terrific photo opportunities as well and based on the size of the parking area (very small). Not a ton of people go there at one time. I really enjoyed the history behind it. If you enjoy history and can imagine the fortifications it's a terrific place to see.
A phenomenal ruined castle situated in a breathtaking spot high above the valley, once owned by the great medieval statesman and knight William Marshal, this should be top of your list if you're in the vicinity. Free entry and parking.
The church ("rock") was locked up and we didn't get to experience the indoors.
The ruins across the road was a nice little mini adventure on the long drive from Dublin to Schull. Recommend especially if you are traveling with teenagers needing a screen break!!
This place was fre and amazing. Really old ruins with a beautiful view of the country side. Totally recommend if you're driving in Ireland
Rock of Dunamase is a fantastic little stop just off the main road. We were driving from Dublin to Killarney. I was looking for a place to stop and stretch our legs. This was perfect; better than I hoped for. There is a small little parking lot. From there you can see the ruins. It's just a short walk up the hill to the site where you can walk amongst the castle ruins. The views on top are incredible. You can really soak in the beauty that is Ireland.
Free. Easy to Access. Stunning.
Very cool castle ruin to stop at just south west of Dublin on your way south to Cashel or Cork, planned it as our first stop in Ireland after the long flight. Arrived around 10:45am and it was quiet. Very few people around. Beautiful views at the top. (Slight incline up but easy enough) no bathrooms tho so find a bush lol. Plenty of parking at the bottom of the trail next to the old church. Tour busses do drop off crowds of people so go early if possible.
Fabulous views 360, nice place to relax and reset too, great history. Locals very friendly just respect area "Leave No trace" - parking very limited. Well worth a vist
4.8
(2451)
4.5
(424)
Park Or Dunamase, Dunamaise, Co. Laois, Ireland
20Grá B — Google reviewDerek — Google reviewAneta J — Google reviewOlive G — Google reviewDenis D — Google reviewShane D — Google reviewCarol G — Google review•
Emo Court House
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Nature & Parks
Emo Court House, a grand 18th-century historical landmark designed by James Gandon, is situated in extensive landscaped grounds which contain over 1000 different trees and shrubs from all over the world. The house boasts an impressive green dome and also has a tearoom & gift shop for visitors to enjoy. Visitors can take guided tours of the house or opt for a scenic stroll through woodlands to Emo Lake.
Lovely walks, interesting history and flora. Great tea rooms with pretty outside space. No admission charge unless you want a tour of the house which was closed when we visited.
John M — Google review
Finally after 6 long years the house is back open to the public. Well done to the OPW for all their work and effort to restore this James Gandon designed architectural masterpiece and offer the public the opportunity to explore and bask in it's might. True to Gandon's signature style, the Rotunda of the building is it's crowing glory, it has that wow factor as everyone who participated in the tour ascertained as we gaped at its splendour and magnificene with vocal approval and appreciation.
The attention to detail in both the architecture and various art pieces and heirlooms that caught my eye the most. It's amazing that the OPW put an effort into the restoration of the basement and bringing the 'servants' quarters and work spaces to life, often overlooked in grand tours.
Well done to Frances for her insight and warmth throughout the tour, míle buíochas ó mo chroí. And a shout out to the dude working at the front desk, he was very courteous and friendly.
The current tour offering is in its infancy, as the house is not long re-opened. There are some creases to iron out I'm sure but for a new venture on the OPW circuit of grand homes, this is a delight.
Tours are offered on the hour and last an hour, covering the first floor and basement. I would have loved to get into the grand library, however restoration works are still being carried out in there. Maybe in time the upstairs will be ready too.
Fantastic gardens with a lovely coffee shop with lots of homemade cakes. There is a 3km walk around the lake. It's very peaceful.
A place worth visiting!
There are free parking spots available right next to the park or a bit further away if you enjoy walking through the forest or along the main road. On-site, there are free public toilets and a small shop where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and grab something sweet. You can visit the palace for a fee or simply take a pleasant free walk around the lake and surrounding grounds. A lovely spot for a peaceful day out!
Fantastic amenity, great parking, picnic, cafe & toilet facilities in a stunning steering of the grounds of Emo Court House.
The house has been beautifully restored. Our tour guide Mary L was very knowledgeable & gave a wonderful guided tour.
Will definitely be back
Emo Court House, a neo-classical mansion, set in The architect James Gandon, who worked on the Custom House and the Four Courts in Dublin, set to work on Emo Court in 1790. The grounds are beautifully landscaped , lovely walks, and really nice tea shop & gift shop. Well worth a visit.
Beautiful gardens, selection of places to eat and drink and you can tour the house with a guide
Plenty of parking
Clean and free toilets
Great walks for the whole family
Great views of surrounding countryside. Very informative tour around the house thats stepped in history. The bedroom and attic floors are yet to be restored. Formal gardens are beautiful.
4.7
(1803)
4.5
(190)
main The Demesne, Emo Park, Emo, Co. Laois, R32 C44V, Ireland
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21Amy D — Google reviewWerner ( — Google reviewTara P — Google reviewFufixiil — Google reviewPeter M — Google reviewWortwahl — Google reviewJade K — Google review
Charleville Castle Heritage Trust
Mentioned on
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Charleville Castle Heritage Trust is a stunning 19th-century fortress nestled in an old oak forest. The castle boasts turrets, towers, and hand-carved stairways, creating an incredible sight for history enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. Known as one of the most haunted places in Ireland, it has its own share of ghostly tales, including that of Harriet, the tragic eight-year-old daughter of the Third Earl of Charleville.
What an experience and lucky to be right on our doorstep! Brought visiting family to step back into time to hear some fascinating stories. Our guide was welcoming, knowledgeable and an excellent storyteller that enlightened our group of the history of Tullamore and gave us some ghostly tales that kept us on our toes. Not to mention that it’s been used on the Netflix show Wednesday. Very proud of our little town! We enjoyed it so much we look forward to attend heritage week on Thursday. Thanks again!
Siobhan M — Google review
This is a beautiful rich piece of history and an active paranormal hot spot. It's also a very famous movie location. I highly recommend visiting and bringing chocolate buttons for Harriet!!
I had this place on my wishlist for some time. I could just have a look at the castle from the outside. Nevertheless it was stunning. I will for sure come back for the tour and hope to see some more restauration progress until then.
Please don't miss the tree at the entrace from the main road. That one is a special of its own.
It’s my favorite place in Ireland! I volunteered there years ago. I brought my family back for a visit and can’t wait to go back. I highly recommend going for a tour. I hope you fall in love with it like I did. You could even inquire about volunteer opportunities too!
Had the most amazing time here today on 31.8.2025 with Bonnie and her lovely assistant Princess. Thank you for such a lovely tour of the castle, what a genuinely interesting and fun experience! ❤
Just an amazing location and guided tour led by the wonderful Bonnie ably assisted by Princess the cat and the odd ghost or two that fills you with joy and wonder and brings every corner of this great edifice to life . Thank you so much 🙏
The castle, the guide, the stories, the atmosphere and last but not least Princess the castle cat were definitely one of the highlights of our trip and worth almost every detour!
Thanks for a great, funny and spooky tour and all the best for your renovation plans.
Loved our tour of Charleville Castle! Stunning building with lots of history, highly recommend.
22Kyla — Google reviewAnastasiia B — Google reviewCasey K — Google reviewAlex G — Google reviewJan D — Google reviewANWESH S — Google reviewMark H — Google review•
Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery Visitor Experience
Mentioned on
Food & Drink
Gift shop
Distilleries
The Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery Visitor Experience is housed in a 19th-century warehouse and offers tasting tours, a restaurant, and a bar. The brand's whiskey has gained global recognition since its establishment in 1829, with the initials D.E.W. representing Daniel E. Williams, the distillery's former general manager.
We had such a good time on our tour with Emma as our tour guide and Jim as our mini-tour bus driver! Our favorite tour so far - it's a bit on the pricier side at 45 euro, but it felt worth it for the experience.
We got to start off the tour with an Irish coffee and overview of the whisky making process and the history of Tullamore D.E.W. Emma did a great job of keeping it fun/informative while keeping it moving and answering questions along the way.
We then got to walk the still house floor, which was super cool! It was a maintenance day when we went, but it was interesting to see where and how the whisky gets distilled.
Next, the snug was probably my favorite experience. The snug was hidden behind a wall of whisky barrels in the warehouse, and the "dog" that Emma used to draw whisky out of one of the barrels for a cask tasting was a cool touch. You can't take pictures in here for safety reasons (the alcohol in the air is definitely strong!), but it was definitely a cool space.
Finally, the tasting of the original, rum cask, and the 12 year was great, too. The decor and the vibe in the tasting room feels almost like you're in a cozy lab. There were droppers with water to try the whisky with, after trying them neat. For those driving, they also had little bottles and funnels to pour part of the tasters into, so they could still finish enjoying the experience later.
As we returned to the gift shop, we got a little demo of how the "Be the Blender" blend-your-own bottle works.
Overall, I definitely recommend this tour. The people working here are super sweet and seem to enjoy what they do. Emma at the counter (a different Emma than the one who guided us on our tour) was kind enough to give us some great food recommendations in town as well.
Sophia S — Google review
One of our favorite whiskey tastings on our trip to Ireland and Scotland. The bartenders were very friendly and gave us lots of recommendations for live music and less touristy things to do. We opted just to do the tasting without the tour and hang out at the bar area. Amazing whiskeys! Vibrant atmosphere with sleek and fun decor.
We had an amazing experience at Tullamore D.E.W.! Our guide, Andy, was fantastic – passionate, knowledgeable, and truly brought the story of the distillery and Irish whiskey to life. We were fascinated by the whole production process and loved learning about every step.
The tasting was excellent, and I also indulged in one of the best Irish coffees I’ve had in Ireland – absolutely delicious! It was a memorable experience from start to finish and definitely worth a visit.
Many thanks as well to our driver, John.
A unique distillery tour that starts with a good basic explanation of the process in a very comfortable setting. You get to walk the production floor and get to get up close the stills and tanks.
Was glad to see that they take drinking and driving seriously and provided take a way bottles for the driver so they can do the dew once they get home.
The smells of the bonded warehouse were amazing and we unexpectedly got to walk the dog. Shout out to Maeve thank you for the great tour. A must if your touring distillery’s in Ireland.
Our tour guide was absolutely awesome and made the experience so enjoyable to learn about the history. The tastings and overall grounds were well worth it. Although there isn’t much to do in the town, this is a favorite whiskey of mine and would love to return. Getting to make your own blend was super cool!
The Tullamore D.E.W. whiskey distillery tour was one of the best things we did while in Ireland. Starting with a warm drink with Mr. Frankie O’Callahan, the bartender , continuing with our tour guide John , and our bus driver , Jim we had the best afternoon. What started as a 2 hour tour ended up being an all afternoon adventure. Everyone was friendly, knowledgeable, and understood whiskey. From beginning to end a thoroughly enjoyable experience!
We had a wonderful experience on the distillery tour! Maeve and Jim were fantastic guides — they shared the rich history of Tullamore Whiskey and walked us through every step of the making process with great enthusiasm. They answered all our questions and made the entire visit truly memorable. Highly recommend taking this tour!
Really good tour. Greeted with irish coffee, taken to a hidden snug to pull some whiskey straight from the barrel, and tasted quality whiskeys. Maeve & Ray were fantastic guides, also. My only recommendation would be some way to try the custom blend at the end to verify it meets your desired profile before finalizing the bottle.
4.6
(3043)
4.8
(2068)
Clonminch, Tullamore, Co. Offaly, R35 E027, Ireland
23Sadejadesly — Google reviewMichael — Google reviewMatthew — Google reviewAnne B — Google reviewIan D — Google reviewNayem I — Google reviewSWATHY K — Google review•
Old Rail Trail (Whitegates, Athlone)
Hiking area
Outdoor Activities
The Old Rail Trail, located in Whitegates, Athlone, offers a 40-kilometer dedicated paved road perfect for cycling or walking. The flat route follows the old train tracks and passes through arched bridges, a tunnel, and picturesque countryside all the way to Mullingar. For those seeking a shorter excursion, an 8-kilometer cycle from Athlone to Moate is also available.
Lovely walk, especially on a sunny day. The path is shared between cyclists and pedestrians - I personally walked inside the old track because it's gravelly so the cyclists won't ride there. There is so much wildlife (there are also working farms alongside), particularly butterflies. Highly recommended.
Paola B — Google review
It is a nice flat trail which is suitable for running, walking, skating or cycling. However it is a fairly boring walk in my opinion. More could be done to improve it such as adding outdoor fitness equipment, benches or adding something to make it more interesting. Even an outdoor information board about the history of the area or trail would be beneficial( didn't see any the last time I was using the Old Rail Trail).
Ok for a walk, jog or run.
If it's scenery you want this ain't for you
Place was good but could be better
Great for a walk or a cycle no pollution and access to a lovely park at the sports centre with play areas for children
Enjoyable cycling, feels mostly safe with no cars to worry about. It's a nice change, from someone who grew up cycling on rural roads in Ireland.
Nice place to relax and enjoy nature. You can walk, run, do cycling for free of cost. Really nice place to visit if you are from Athlone.
Lovely walk⚘️
4.6
(91)
4.5
(109)
Warrens Fields, Athlone, Co. Westmeath, Ireland
24Fergal G — Google reviewCaroline B — Google reviewAlice — Google reviewLoredana M — Google reviewKathy G — Google reviewCarol W — Google reviewMadpromotions — Google review•
Irish National Stud & Gardens
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Horsestable studfarm
Nature & Parks
The Irish National Stud & Gardens is a must-visit destination for horse enthusiasts and nature lovers. The stud farm offers extensive walks to see the horses in paddocks and stables, while the St Fiachras Garden features a fairy trail for spotting fairies around the lakeside walk. Families can explore the famous Japanese gardens with bridges and pathways, providing an enjoyable experience for kids. Racing enthusiasts can also visit nearby world-famous racecourses like Curragh Racecourse and Punchestown Racecourse.
What a great experience for those interested in thoroughbred racing and those who may not be. The Japanese Gardens are peaceful and have a nice commentary in the guide and the rest of the grounds are well looked after. The horses are well looked after. The racing experience is good fun to end the visit.
Tony M — Google review
Good location. Plenty of parking. Lots of shade. But very very expensive! We paid over €50 for one adult and two kids.
The Japanese gardens are wonderful, but actually very small. We were expecting something bigger considering the high price. The various gardens are lovely to walk around.
The grounds are immaculate.
Very friendly and very helpful staff.
Great afternoon spent at stud. Beautiful gardens and tour was packed full of information. We saw some legends during tour and mums and foals. In the interactive experience is fun. Tasty food in restaurant too
Absolutely loved this place. I travelled with two 7yr old boys who loved it from start to finish.
They loved the race experience, the waterfall in St Fiachras garden, the foals, the fairy garden was a big hit.
They spent a long time in the Japanese Gardens, exploring all the nooks and crannies and walking the stepping stones.
There was none of the usual "I'm tired" or "I'm hungry". It was all go.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
A Peaceful Hidden Gem in Kildare!
The Japanese Gardens at the Irish National Stud are absolutely breathtaking — a perfect blend of nature, artistry, and serenity. From the moment you step through the entrance, you’re transported into a beautifully designed landscape full of winding paths, stone bridges, water features, and symbolic planting. The journey through the gardens is designed to represent the “Life of Man,” and it’s both peaceful and thought-provoking.
Everything is so well-maintained, and there’s always something new to notice, whether it’s the koi fish, the vibrant flowers, or the gentle sounds of water flowing. It’s a lovely spot for a reflective solo stroll, a romantic walk, or a family outing.
Don’t miss pairing your visit with the National Stud nearby — it makes for a perfect day out. Highly recommend if you’re in the area or even planning a short trip from Dublin. A true hidden gem that captures the spirit of Japanese garden design right here in Ireland!
I throughly enjoyed my few hrs here. The food was nice, no queing and plenty of parking. Priced not too expensive, per person, but for a small family it could be alot, and we didnt do a tour. The Japanese garden was a delight, the sole reason for my visit. Though don't be expecting peace n quiet. Pristine and exceptional maintenance of the gardens. I'll be visiting again.
Fabulous Place to Visit. Beautiful Grounds to walk around, Amazing Trees, Plants & Shrubs, lovely to see and pet the horses. Visit the Fairy Trail, see the ducks and walk around St. Fiachra's Garden, so peaceful. Loved the Irish Racehorse Experience, very interesting and good fun. Lovely Gift Shop & Restaurant.
National is always worth a visit loads to do. Our kids loved. Play of play areas, coffee shops, horses and walks.
Japanese Garden is beautiful.
Highly recommend a visit.
4.7
(4814)
4.6
(2040)
Tully East, Tully, Co. Kildare, R51 AP20, Ireland
25Sai P — Google reviewSandhya V — Google reviewAngela C — Google reviewFreya M — Google reviewBrian G — Google reviewOlive G — Google reviewArec Z — Google review•
Michael Kors Outlet
Mentioned on
expensive
Outlet store
If you're on the hunt for stylish and luxurious fashion, look no further than the Michael Kors Outlet. This retailer showcases a stunning array of classic clothing, handbags, and accessories from the renowned designer brand. With over 100 boutiques featuring other high-end names like Gucci and Prada, you can score exclusive deals on luxury items that elevate your wardrobe without breaking the bank. The Michael Kors Outlet in Kildare Village is particularly noteworthy for its impressive collection of apparel at fantastic discounts.
Michael Kors showroom in the Kildare village have good collection of apparels. There is good discount on all the products. The staffs are very helpful. The place is very crowded in the weekends. One of the reason is good quality products and discounts. Kildare village have frequent connectivity to city centre through bus and have a big parking space if you are coming by car.
Anoop A — Google review
Premium store and very nice bags, cheaper than other retail stores
This is super good expensive brand.. I have these two taken in America
1) the big red one is 60$ and here is 99€
2) the small I have is 70$ and here is 95€..
So compare if you need to buy
I’ve review was written to be helpful to you, the consumer and to also bring relevant information to the attention of the business in focus. If you’ve found this review helpful and or relevant for you, please help me by selecting the "thumbs up" icon below.
The last couple of times iv been in this store i was looked after by the same girl , she maybe a Manager ? I didn’t catch her name but she will know herself when i say i was looking for a t-shirt because i sprayed bleach on one that i had. Just want to mention she was very engaging and went out of her way to get some t-shirts for me to try , she had a lovely way with customers. … Thanks again.
Brilliant service there today from an Asian girl, sorry to describe her this way but didn't get her name.
she informed me of offers that I was not aware of after talking to another staff member.
She was on the door when I returned and
recognised me straight away and let me in. Superb staff member 👏👌
Got a shirt went back to get a refund to be put back on my card was no they don't refund money back on your card the give you a gift voucher they take your money but will give it back to you
Great day shopping in Kildare. Michael Kors is a new addition to this development. The staff are really profession, helpful and totally lack that pretension that seems to be part of the job requirement for some brand outlets. Thanks Ladies see you again soon
Very unfriendly staff.
The Chinese girl treated us badly at the entrance, shouting to us. Promised to get inside the shop in less than 40min, waiting 1h15 min and didn't get in.
I am so disappointed with the staff service.
There were more people complaining at the time.
4.4
(47)
4.0
(1023)
Unit 49, 50 Kildare Village, Greyabbey, Nurney Road, Co. Kildare, R51 R265, Ireland
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26Monika P — Google reviewJanusz L — Google reviewAndrew W — Google reviewDiddely S — Google reviewVirginia H — Google reviewGiel C — Google reviewMichael G — Google review•
Kilbeggan Distillery Visitor Centre
Mentioned on
Distillery
Food & Drink
The Kilbeggan Distillery Visitor Centre is a restored distillery that now serves as a museum showcasing the history of whiskey. Visitors can explore old machinery and learn about the brewing process. The tour, which lasts about an hour, offers a friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to enjoy whiskey tasting. The watermill on site is still operational, and there's enthusiasm from the staff who make visitors feel welcome.
Our tour guide Joseph Mulligan from Happy Tours brought us here. What a fantastic place, amazing whisky and cool place. Nice people there too. I recommend a stop.
Xavier O — Google review
5 stars is not enough!
We visited the distillery on Easter Sunday, guided tour included us plus 4 other people and amazing Darragh (apologies if I misspelled the name!). We got a tasting glass as a souvenir and the tour started with a drink with ginger ale and Kilbeggan Black. For drivers - ginger ale, made with Irish apples - very tasty 😍
Darragh gave us a great tour, explaining the history, the process and being involved and very attentive to our questions! We have never been to such a historic distillery and Kilbeggan was a great choice!
If you’re looking for unique experience, taste nice whiskies, learn about the distillery and its history - this is the best place in Ireland! Small, boutique place making whiskies for the local consumption ❤️
Highly recommended for whiskey lovers!
Great place for whiskey lovers and not only.
1 of the oldest Distillery in Ireland with spirit from the past century.
Nice gift shop and surrounding plus whiskey tour with tastings.
Really enjoyed the tour and tasting done at Ireland’s oldest distillery…. Would happily recommend to others
Friendly staff and interesting place to visit. We felt the tour was quite rushed and the tasting was disappointing (only one type of whiskey to taste test), although we visited in a large group towards the end of the day so this may have played a part. The bar was lovely after and we picked up a few trinkets from the gift shop. Worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Interesting tour in an historic whiskey distillery. Nice tasting.
Our tour lasted about an hour. Perfect amount of time.
Splendid tour. We had a great explanation and tour of the old distillery that was initially used, as well as the one used for small batches nowdays. The guide had excellent knowledge on the topic.
(Added photo but don’t want to give spoilers)
Its a fantastic building and although I never ventured inside the outside had more than enough to catch my interest. The water being released makes for some lovely photos from across the river. It really is lovely on a sunny day. Well worth a visit even to admire from a far, enjoy
4.7
(492)
4.5
(669)
Lower Main St, Kilbeggan, Co. Westmeath, Ireland
27Shelly123 — Google reviewBrittany H — Google reviewStephen C — Google reviewDeirdre M — Google reviewNiamh H — Google reviewFiona C — Google reviewRoisin — Google review•
Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park
Mentioned on
Nature & Parks
Museum
Parks
Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park offers an engaging and educational experience for families, featuring interactive exhibits, walking trails, and a train ride. Visitors can immerse themselves in Irish history, culture, and natural heritage while enjoying the scenic beauty of the park. The attraction boasts indoor and outdoor play areas, a peat bog heritage display, a fairy village that delights younger visitors, and a farm area with animals to observe. Additionally, there are opportunities for activities such as crazy golf and treasure hunts.
Beautiful and peaceful place . Surrounded by nature and history.... you can use a little train and go around or you can use walk paths (most recommend). Loads of things to see and do. At the end there is picnic area with table and bench. Coffee shop and toilets are there as well.. i have got really nice man at administration point. Very kind and positive person helped with all questions. All people working over there are nice with good vibe.
Asia J — Google review
Fantastic day out! Really is a hidden gem. Well worth the price. Ample parking and picnic areas (including sheltered). Great little coffee shop/cafe. Indoor/outdoor play areas, lovely walking trails, good history of the area! Highly recommend and we will certainly return!
We had such a fantastic time here! This place is a truly great place to visit and learn, offering so much to see and do. The highlight for us was the huge indoor playground—it's practically a maze with tunnels and slides that kept the kids (and me!) entertained for ages.
Beyond the play areas, they have a lot of variety, including fun things like a train ride and an outdoor playground. The live animals were a wonderful addition, and the little snack café and gift shop were perfect for a quick break.
And for a memorable (and slightly spooky!) experience, the houses with the mannequins are a sight to see—they look so realistic, I wasn't sure if they might come to life! Highly recommend this spot for a full day of fun and exploration. Five stars!
Great day out for kids. Loads to do onsite, with a variety of attractions from animals, to the walks, to the train and indoor and outdoor play areas.
Food very good also, and reasonable prices.
Would return again and recommend to others.
Recommend going early in the day as we had the place to ourselves before it got busy in the early afternoon.
Fantastic day. The train could have been longer but well designed and very informative. GOOD price. Well worth a visit
We had a fantastic time yesterday at Halloween Happenings! We were meant to attend the previous day but had to reschedule at short notice, and the guy on the phone who changed our booking was so helpful. My husband and two boys, 12 and 7, loved the Terror hunt, crazy golf, horror train ride and pet farm, which were all included in the price. From the witch who greeted us while we waited to check-in, to the juggler and crazy chain-saw clown, staff were fantastic! Queued for a while in the cafe but you expect that at a busy event. We even learned some Irish history as we made our way round. Definitely a great trip, and we will look forward to a return visit!
We had a lovely experience at Lullymore! The train ride was great and you could really see how much work and effort went into preparing everything. The attention to detail and creative ideas were impressive, and the actors were just brilliant!
All the staff were so friendly and welcoming, and there’s plenty of space for kids to run around and enjoy themselves. The café is lovely too, and the scones were delicious.
A really nice day out for families.
We had the best experience at the Halloween event in Lullymore, thanks so much. It's very hard to find an experience that isn't too young or too old for young teens. We all loved the train, the laughs and screams, it was lovely to have fun together as a family. Mini golf was a big hit and an easy wander around the beautiful park was lovely. A great experience for us all and reasonably priced too. Loved it. Thank you.
4.6
(1681)
4.5
(183)
Heritage & Discovery Park, Lullymore East, Lullymore, Co. Kildare, R51 E036, Ireland
28Catherine C — Google reviewMarvin W — Google reviewMagda J — Google reviewLoz L — Google reviewSara V — Google reviewEileen — Google reviewAstrid L — Google review•
Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre
Mentioned on
Visitor center
The Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre showcases the impressive Iron Age bog road, dating back to 148 BC. The preserved 18m oak track is displayed in a humidified hall, offering insight into the unique flora and fauna of the bog as well as preservation methods. Visitors can enjoy an informative tour and a lovely 5km walk around the site.
During our visit the visitor centre was closed, however the 10 km's of walkable trackway winding the bog, was so peaceful, and tranquil, definitely a must when in the area.
V H — Google review
Wonderful little museum with very friendly and knowledgeable staff. The information provided by both staff and video is excellent. The trackway is very well displayed and the boardwalk outside across the bog is lovely. Will definitely be back. The museum is free to visit.
Very informative, our guide had lots of information to share. The film before the tour was a great look back into the dig. No tickets required.
Absolutely a Gem! An amazing artefact that deserves protection at all costs. The staff are incredible—dedicated and doing their utmost to preserve the Trackway. The guide was both passionate and highly knowledgeable, making the experience even more memorable.
Unfortunately, the site is severely underfunded, and as a result, the Trackway is beginning to dry out. If no action is taken, it may eventually deteriorate beyond repair. I believe it might be necessary to undergo the full preservation process again, possibly in Portsmouth, given their expertise with the Mary Rose—which still looks fantastic.
Ideally, the Trackway should be housed under glass to create a more controlled environment. It’s disheartening that, because the site is off the main tourist trail, the OPW seems to show little interest. There’s barely any advertising, and even less effort toward proper preservation—despite the fact that doing so would likely cost less than Dublin’s infamous “bike shed.” Shame.
We went as part of Heritage week for a slug and snail activity. We then went to see the trackway. We had an expert guide that made it so accessible and interesting for children! Thank you.
The museum was very interesting and completely free. The staff were kind and welcoming. A great experience
A hidden gem, after watching Oíche Shamhna: An Ancient Mystery on Sunday in which the Corlea Trackway visitor centre was featured we knew a visit was needed to see this wonderful facility, The staff were all very friendly and welcoming with our guide Noel who was very knowledgeable and passionate, and funny explaining the history in a very understandable way Thank you. After the film show and seeing the Trackway we went for a walk around a very atmospheric bog.
I would highly recommend a visit at any age.
Fascinating place to visit. Film first to describe the discovery and preservation of the trackway, then very interesting talk by one of the excellent guides. We did the 2.5km walk around the site to see the bog and vegetation more closely
4.8
(359)
5.0
(82)
Cloonbreany, Keenagh, Co. Longford, N39 XT18, Ireland
29Fernanda B — Google reviewLucija U — Google reviewScott P — Google reviewSayantani C — Google reviewIts D — Google reviewEoghan S — Google reviewJames F — Google review•
Belvedere House Gardens & Park
Mentioned on
Nature & Parks
Event venue
Belvedere House Gardens & Park is a stunning lakeside estate featuring a Palladian-style villa from the 1700s and Victorian gardens adorned with follies. The grand 18th-century hunting lodge, designed by Richard Cassels, sits within 65 hectares of gardens overlooking Lough Ennell. Visitors can explore the delicate rococo plasterwork in the upper rooms of the house and wander through the Victorian glasshouse, walled garden, and lakeside setting.
Fantastic location to visit with things for all ages including playgrounds, fairy forts and forest walks. Friendly staff and cafe on site does beautiful lunch. Will certainly be returning. Kids go free is a good incentive too.
Eoin B — Google review
Beautiful place! Even though the house is undergoing renovations so we couldn't visit it (and nobody advised us when we bought the tickets), the gardens are worth the whole visit. Amazing array of plants and flowers and trees, even a fairy garden for the delight of all the visitors ☺️ Super recommendable!
I recently visited Belvedere House Gardens & Park, and had a great time. First of all, staff at the entrance are helpful and attentive. They gave us a guidance map and made sure we do not miss anything. Belvedere itself is a combination of serene walking paths through the forest, and the historic charm. Ideal for relaxing and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're into photography, history, nature, or just looking for a tranquil escape, Belvedere is a must-visit. Highly recommended!
It's a lovely place with beautiful scenery and walks. My favorite was the fairy garden but it's all truly worth the visit. It'll transcend you back in time.
Beautiful setting, sprawling picnic spot, lake walk, children's play area, forest walk, beautiful walled garden, fairy garden, and old architecture. Good food and area to relax. Overall experience is excellent.
Very beautiful location.
Nice little outing and feeling as if in a old english series.
The ice cream is really good and the staff working in the cafe are friendly and kind with the kiddies.
Only drawback was that they busy doing some maintenance at the moment however it is still a lovely outing lots of little things to do at a reasonable price.
Lovely spot for a walk with lovely things to see. Great for kids as there plenty for them too do.
Toilets could do with an update.
But that the only slight negative.
Would highly recommend for a day out.
Visited Thursday. Clean and well kept Gardens .Good walks with plenty of sign post .Quiet and car park secure .
4.6
(2068)
4.0
(702)
Belvidere, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, Ireland
30Amar J — Google reviewDom W — Google reviewJASON F — Google reviewGer R — Google reviewFabiana B — Google reviewCiaran O — Google reviewCarol G — Google review•
Tullynally Castle & Gardens
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Sights & Landmarks
Garden
Tullynally Castle & Gardens is a picturesque estate located in County Westmeath, surrounded by hills and lakes. The castle has been the residence of the Pakenham family for over 350 years and still serves as their private home. While tours of the main rooms must be booked in advance, visitors can explore the manicured gardens, which seamlessly blend into the natural surroundings.
Lovely tea room, dog friendly covered seating area. Excellent rambling gardens with things for kids to explore. It's worth doing the walk down to the lake to see the beautiful restoration of native water meadows and trees
Ruth T — Google review
Enjoy a royal walk within some of the most beautiful gardens. We visited on a Sunday so we didn’t get to enjoy a tour of the castle but the gardens walk was a lovely experience. The gardens are well kept and offer almost magical views and beauty! The most captivating for us was the peace and quiet during our walk. The property spans across 200 acres of land, so there is more than enough space to enjoy for everyone. The price to enter is also more than affordable and after your walk is complete, you can enjoy a nice tea at the tea room in the heart of the castle.
Tullynally, the Pakenhams’ family home since 1655.
Cultural Escapism
What a great way to delve into the history of this Westmeath gem of a historical site and yet a family home. Great stories, beautifully told by Joe the history buff from Kerry.
Fantastic variety of well maintained garden walks 5*****
A Special Visit to a Truly Special Place
Once again, I had the pleasure of visiting Tullynally Castle a truly lovely place that holds personal meaning as it also happens to be the ancestral homestead of my wife’s family, long before the Pakenham family took residence. Back in 2020, while researching the area for a film project, I had the pleasure of meeting Thomas Pakenham himself. Since then, I’ve returned many times, often bringing students from Spain, Italy, and France on guided tours through the gardens, woodlands, and the castle’s rich historical grounds.
Today’s visit was something extra special. I returned with my wife, and after spending over three peaceful hours forest bathing in the ancient woodlands, we found ourselves completely recharged. The tranquility of the trees, the birdsong, and the timeless atmosphere truly offer something rare and healing.
We rounded off the visit with a quiet moment in the cozy coffee shop, which was as welcoming and charming as ever with warm smiles, good coffee, and the scent of trees still lingering in our breath. Every visit to Tullynally is a reminder of the beauty of Irish heritage, history, and nature at its finest. Whether you're a history lover, a nature seeker, or simply in need of peace, this place never disappoints.
Highly recommended.
Tullynally Castle is surrounded by twelve acres of parkland and gardens, including woodland gardens and walled gardens laid out in the early 19th century with a limestone grotto and ornamental lakes. In the former stables a lovely tearoom has been created, that serves delicious food.
Tullynally Castle was a pleasant discovery for us!
Immersed in the greenery, surrounded by majestic trees, you will find this little gem still managed and inhabited by the descendants of the Family.
We purchased the ticket for the castle tour and gardens.
Thomas, our special guide (you'll understand why when you go) didn't hold back in sharing anecdotes and details about the family's history.
Once the tour was over, we took a break in the lovely café, also run by polite and helpful staff.
The gardens, our last stop of the day, left us breathless as soon as we entered. An endless expanse of greenery. You can choose from various paths to follow, which lead you to lakes, forests, or flowering gardens.
We understand that managing such a large park is not easy, especially if done privately.There is the right balance between the hand of man and nature, beautiful and wild as it is.
See you soon! 🇮🇹💚🇮🇪
Great day spent in Tullynally Castle..we did the guided tour with Robert, who was very entertaining and informative..
Gardens were fantastic to walk through...
A lovely walk through the woods up to the most beautiful Castle. Café onsite, sadly we were too late, but a must if you enjoy a scenic walk.
4.7
(815)
4.5
(75)
Tullynally Pakenham Hall, Road, Castlepollard, Co. Westmeath, N91 HV58, Ireland
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