Placs to Visit

People are recognizing the vital connection between health, agriculture and our environment. At the Dunmore Country school we will help you to grow tasty vegetables in an organic, sustainable, intensive and cost effective way. Dunmore country school kitchen garden is on a one acre plot, with a polytunnel and is based on the traditional French “potager”, or country garden. The garden is both productive and a pleasure to the senses.

This stunning County House Hotel looks over its beautiful terraced gardens to the South of the River Erkina to the North. Built in 1716, Castle Durrrow now boasts large and bright reception areas, dining rooms & bedrooms. All rooms have been refurbished without losing their original architectural features. Lots of ingredients for the fabulous food are supplied by the Castle's own organic kitchen gardens, along with locally sourced produce. River, parkland, forest walks and cycling are in abundance. Golf is easily arranged on the estate, tennis in the gardens, massages, manicures, facials etc., available in the Castle’s own beauty Salon, provide the perfect getaway.

The Dunamaise Arts Centre is a purpose built theatre and arts centre situated in the centre of Portlaoise, Co. Laois in the heart of Ireland. Comprising a 238 seat theatre, exhibition gallery, restaurant and workshop spaces, the centre opened in May 1999 and plays host to the best in national and international performing and visual arts centre. For information on events, please contact The Dunamaise Arts Centre directly.

The gentle rolling hills of the SLIEVE BLOOM MOUNTAINS rise from the central plains of Ireland, forming a natural link between Counties Laois and Offaly. They are at the cross-roads of Ireland half-way between Galway and Dublin, Belfast and Cork, and Donegal and Rosslare. Their central location makes the Slieve Bloom area an ideal base for visitors wishing to make trips to other parts of Ireland. Alternatively, you can chose it as an interesting place to break your journey when en-route to other parts of Ireland. The area is made up of forests, blanket bog of a type which is unique to Ireland, interspersed with hidden valleys of great character, and interest to the nature lover. It includes farmland bounded by hedgerows full of bird and plant life. The natural colours of the landscape are remarkable in any season. It is an extremely peaceful area which permits the opportunity to be close to nature. Much of the higher reaches of the mountains have been designated as an Environmentally Protected area for special preservation, as an amenity for generations to come. As a consequence, there are plenty of sign-posted walks, explanatory boards regarding wildlife and flora and fauna, and designated picnic areas.

Welcome to Abbeyleix Heritage House. Housed in the Old North National School, our Heritage Centre interprets the Planned Estate Town of the de Vesci Landlords, once home to the Abbeyleix Carpet Factory, where a number of hand-tufted carpets were made for the state rooms of the Titanic. We are located in the former North Boy's School, a beautiful cut stone building dating from 1884 and you can find us at the North or Dublin side of the towm on the N8. We charge a small admission fee, the proceeds of which go towards the upkeep and development of our collection of historical memorabilia.
Adult:€3 Student €2.50 Group/Senior €2