Offaly County

Itineraries

County Offaly offers a rich tapestry of experiences, blending historical sites with cultural richness and natural beauty. From a flying visit to something more sustained, these itineraries are perfect for making the most of your time in this fascinating Irish county.

One-Day Itinerary: Discover Offaly’s Heritage

  • Morning: Start at the ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise, beside the River Shannon. Explore the ruins, high crosses, and round towers, and learn about its significance to early Christian Ireland at the visitor center.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic by the river or visit a local café in Shannonbridge, known for traditional Irish dishes.
  • Afternoon: Tour Birr Castle Demesne and Gardens. Marvel at the historic castle and the Great Telescope, and don’t miss the interactive science gallery detailing the Parsons family’s contributions to astronomy and photography.
  • Evening: Return to Tullamore for dinner, sampling some Tullamore D.E.W. whiskey as an aperitif or digestif.

Weekend Getaway: Nature and Culture in Offaly

  • Day 1: Follow the One-Day Itinerary.
  • Day 2:
    • Morning: Visit Lough Boora Discovery Park. Enjoy biking or walking the trails, exploring the sculptures, and wildlife watching.
    • Lunch: Dine at the café in Lough Boora, featuring locally sourced ingredients.
    • Afternoon: Head to the Slieve Bloom Mountains for an afternoon hike or a guided nature walk, enjoying breathtaking views.
    • Evening: Dine in one of the quaint villages like Kinnitty or Clonaslee.

Five-Day Cultural Exploration of Offaly

  • Days 1-2: Complete the Weekend Getaway itinerary.
  • Day 3:
    • Morning: Tour the Tullamore D.E.W. Visitor Centre for a guided tour and whiskey tasting.
    • Afternoon: Explore Tullamore’s shops and galleries or play golf at a local course.
    • Evening: Enjoy live music in a Tullamore pub.
  • Day 4:
    • All Day: Take a day trip to Banagher or Ferbane, enjoying leisurely river cruises, visiting historical sites, and relaxing in the serene environment.
    • Evening: Sample local cuisine at a riverside restaurant.
  • Day 5:
    • Morning: Start at the Edenderry Historical Society to learn about the town’s industrial past.
    • Afternoon: Hike to Croghan Hill for panoramic views and visit an ancient burial mound at the summit.
    • Evening: Conclude your tour with a celebratory dinner back in Tullamore, reflecting on the rich experiences of your trip.

These itineraries are designed to provide a comprehensive and immersive experience of County Offaly, from its historical roots to its natural splendors and vibrant local culture.