County Offaly is a part of the Midlands Region, located in the province of Leinster. It is bounded by other Counties all around and mainly covered with lowland topography. From haunting castles to activities like skydiving, there are many places to visit in County Offaly. It was also known as the King’s County in honour of the king then. I have created an amazing list of 5 things to do in Offaly Ireland for you.
Its landscape is mainly a combination of peat bogs and glacial drift consisting of cultivable land. Harvesting is the main line of work here with some high technology food processing industries.
In the countryside, the ruins of ancient churches are scattered all around. The largest town here in Tullamore, as two-fifth of the population in County Offaly lives here. We have compiled a list of all the places to visit in County Offaly.
1. Ireland’s most haunted castle-Leap Castle
This Castle was built somewhere between the 13th and 16th century. If you’re bored with visiting castles for learning about their historical existence, you can run a tour of this Castle considered the most haunted castles in Ireland. Visitors have noticed many strange things happening around here with the lights and smell.
The chapel here is said to be home to many spirits. Some horror T.V. shows were also filmed here. If you think you’re brave enough to explore the unusual events here, do check it out, as it is one of the unique places to visit in County Offaly.
The Castle is now owned by the Ryans family, in the north of Roscrea and you can visit only through prior bookings.
2. Tullamore Distillery
If you’re someone who cherishes the pure Irish drinks, this should be a must-visit in County Offaly. The place serves whiskey and will take you through the whole story behind the name and making of the drink. The audio and video visuals will provide you with a more in-depth insight into understanding the craft and passion dedicated behind the whole distillery.
It was founded by Daniel E. Williams (D.E.W.) and hence the brand name, Tullamore Dew. After the impressive tour, you will also have a sample to taste for yourself, and the whole time will be worth it.
3. Birr Castle
The Castle has 90 rooms and is spread across 1200 acre of Midlands. It is also considered to be the oldest inhabited home in Ireland. The strangest thing about this Castle is that it is still a home to the family who inhabited it in 1620 and so you can not always visit the Castle, but the 100-acre garden is open for visitors at all the time.
Start at the Castle’s foot with the famous herbaceous border overlooking the Camcor River with the oldest suspension bridge in Ireland. Then there are the champion trees and the formal millennium gardens, the wildflower meadow, the oak tree about 500 years old, and a science gallery and museum.
If you want some family time in County Offaly, this is the best place.
4. Lough Boora Discovery Park
This public amenity park for plants and wildlife on around 5000 acres of land was created after the extraction of peat from this area. This is a gorgeous place in County Offaly. You can walk or cycle around the 20-mile trail. Besides the parkland, it is also known for the stunning sculptures made from old peat mining instruments. This is one of the most spectacular places to visit in County Offaly.
For bookings and more information, click here.
5. Charleville Castle
Another haunted castle, which is a known tourist attraction in County Offaly. It was initially called the Charleville Castle and is situated in Ireland’s most primitive oak woods. It is located about one mile south of Tullamore and is a fine 19th-century Gothic building. It also holds events, plays and auctions.
Bonus Point (Skydiving)
Everyone has this in their bucket list, and imagine doing this in-between the majestic castles and dazzling greens. It is in Clonbullogue, which is a 45 minutes’ drive from Tullamore. The Irish Parachute Club, a non-profit organisation, provides full training from beginners to the advanced level. Don’t miss this opportunity as it is an enlightening one and the best thing to do in County Offaly.
For bookings, click here.
Conclusion
I hope you find this place as beautiful as I think about it. From castles to trails to skydiving, there are so many places to visit in Offaly. You can also see traditional pubs and lakeside view restaurants at Lukers in Shannonbridge. If you’re there at the time of Birr Vintage Week and Arts Festival, do check that out, it is an exclusive event that holds so many entertaining things.
Let me know in the comment section about the place that you enjoyed the most there. Also, let me know if you know more amazing things to do in Offaly.
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From Ireland’s most haunted castle to skydiving, County Offaly has it all. Check out the blog to know about the 5 incredible places to visit in Offaly
