SPEND YOUR DAYS EXPLORING TULLAMORE
Discover the hidden gem of Tullamore, nestled in the heart of County Offaly, where every corner tells a story and every moment is a new adventure. Start your journey with a hike through the enchanting Slieve Bloom Mountains, where the trails offer both tranquillity and breath-taking vistas. Immerse yourself in the local culture at the Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre, where the rich history of whiskey-making comes alive. When the weather turns, find solace in the town’s cosy cafés, each offering a unique charm and warmth, or browse through the eclectic mix of boutique shops and indoor attractions.
Don’t miss the majestic Charleville Castle, a Gothic masterpiece set amidst lush woodlands, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. Engage with the vibrant community at local parks, where you can enjoy the fresh air and perhaps catch a local market bustling with fresh produce and handmade crafts. Tullamore is not just a destination; it’s an experience that invites you to explore, relax, and create unforgettable memories.
Day 1
Morning
Begin your 48 hour adventure at The Award-Winning Gardens of Birr Castle Demesne . Stroll in wonder & marvel at the amazing feats of science and engineering as well as rare trees and flowers and wonderful wildlife. Plotted with beautiful lakes & rivers, sounds like it’s time to flash a kodak moment!
Celebrating 400 years this year, this remarkable family have resided at the romantic and inspirational setting of Birr Castle Demesne; now home to the 7th Earl of Rosse. The Parsons family invite you to explore one of the most extraordinary places in Ireland. Created over generations it is an environmental and a scientific time capsule.
Early Afternoon
After gulping back a tonne of science & nature, an appetite is brewing! There’s only one remedy: Spin into The Brewery Tap! Once you ram through their doors, there’s no going back! It’s known as the social heart of the city, & with banter cloned in every corner it’s no wonder! Not only does the atmosphere get a certified A+ the food is to die for! Have your knife & fork at the ready and dig into some hearty grub!
Late Afternoon
With the food down, you might care for a tipple? Well in that case, we’ve got just the ticket for you! Take the Tullamore D.E.W tour & sip on almost two centuries of history. Learn the art of Irish whisky making; with a dram of whiskey, bursting with flavour, in hand. In a world of whisky tasting and cocktail making classes looks like you’ll be a master distiller in no time. Think you can give the DEW a run for their money? You’ve had enough, buddy! So clink clink, bottoms up to a jolly good time!
Evening
After dunking yourself into a whiskey vat, you’ll be feeling peckish no doubt! Jive into The Captain House for a delicious, rambunctious time! As the name suggests, everything follows a nautical theme! The Captain House pulls out all the stops, & once inside you’ll feel like you’re in a real-life fishing village in the middle of the countryside! The food will have you slobbering for MORE, and coming to think of it we’re due seconds!
Day 2
10 am A Morning on the Greenway
Next morning get geared up for ultimate adventure when you collect your bike at Buckley Cycles and explore The Grand Canal Greenway
The Greenway follows the pleasant canal towpath, which was formally used by powerful draft horses pulling barges laden with goods and passengers. The Offaly Grand Canal Greenway stretches from Edenderry in the east to Shannon Harbour in the west of the county.
There’s no better way to see Offaly than from the saddle so peddle, peddle, peddle and peddle some more!
Afternoon Shopping
With an exhausting morning ticked off it’s time to perk up your mood with a healthy dose of retail therapy! Nip into Grove Home & Design an interior & lifestyle store specialising in beautiful furnishings. Just one step inside, will have anybody second-guessing & re-imagining their abode! From beautiful accessories to glamorous chandeliers, luxurious throws to gorgeous tableware, scented candles to pretty cushions you won’t leave empty handed, that’s for sure!
An Evening of Dining
After a hectic day, notch up the class with a spectacular dinner. If fine dining is more skewed to your tastes the Award winning The Blue Apron Restaurant is made for you! The menu in The Blue Apron Restaurant is varied with something to suit everyone’s palate; from locally sourced meat, to fresh fish and a contemporary vegetarian menu inspired by Kenan’s Turkish roots.
Here’s a fun fact, that always sets us into overdrive: All dishes are made from scratch.. O Bellissima! When you hit this joint there’s only one thing to say.. Bonne appétit!
Day 1
Lough Boora Bog
Lough Boora Parklands encompasses 250 acres of cutaway bog, carefully restored to a wonderful wildlife sanctuary. With hundreds of wildlife and fish, plus 6 lakes, there is endless exploring. These breathtaking wetlands are now also home the most creative environmental sculptures in all of Ireland. The artists, inspired by the rich natural and industrial legacy of the bog lands, have created a series of large-scale sculptures that are now part of the Parklands permanent collection. If your kids tire easily, rent a bike and pop them on the back! A range of traditional and hybrid bikes are available from €3 per person per hour. Plus helmets for all, child seats, and two seater trailers, catering for even the smallest toddlers.
Birr Outdoor Educational Centre
Not for the faint hearted, Birr Outdoor Educational Centre is based on the banks of the River Shannon. Choose from a range of water sports, adventure activities, rock climbing and gorge walking. Or teach them something new, with ecology courses including mountain navigation and orienteering. To book, visit their website here.
Birr Castle Gardens
The Treehouse Adventure Area at Birr Castle Gardens is open from 9.00 until 18:00 daily in the summer and until 16:00 from Oct – Jan. It features Ireland’s largest treehouse along with sand pits, climbing frames, slides and much more. Dogs are not permitted within the playground area. Children under 18 years must be accompanied by an adult at all times within the gardens and treehouse area.
Evening at the Hotel
After that adventure packed day, the kids are sure to be tired. Take a nap in your spacious Family Room, which features multi-channel TV. If they are still full of energy, book in a slot at our indoor heated Swimming Pool & Kiddies Pool. Before enjoying dinner for all the family in The Court Bar & Restaurant.
Day 2
Horse Riding at Annaharvey Farm
For a great Equestrian Experience, Annaharvey Farm has it all. Whether your little ones are horse-riding pros, or this will be their first time, the choice ranges from cross-country fences to fun rides around the farm. With indoor and outdoor arenas also available, you are guaranteed a most enjoyable horseback riding experience no matter what the weather. A private 30 minute lesson is €35, and bookable here on their website.
Belvedere House & Fairy Gardens
This magnificent early 18th century home of Robert Rochfort, Earl of Belvedere, comprises of 160 acres of parkland with 6kms of magnificent woodland and lakeshore walks to roam. A multimedia presentation tells the story of Belvedere, full of intrigue, romance and revenge. There is an animal sanctuary and children’s play area, and also a delightful tram which provides guided tours around a section of the parkland. Day admission is €6.40 for Adults, €3.20 for Children aged 4-16, and free for under 3s. Tickets must be booked in advance at Belvedere-House.ie.
Hushabye Alpaca Farm
Located a mere 10 minute drive from the hotel, a visit is Hushabye Alpaca Farm is a must. This family run farm is set in the foothills of the Slieve Bloom Mountains, in the center of Ireland – home to Irelands friendliest Alpaca Herd. While visiting the Alpacas, you can even engage with them and take them for a walk, have a cuppa and perhaps pop in to their popular farm shop for a little token gift to take home.
3pm Lilliput Adventure Centre
Lilliput Adventure Centre is located in Johnathan Swift Park, on the shores of Lough Ennell. It’s fabulous, unspoiled beauty, along with forests and lake, offer a unique and idyllic location. You can take part in specialised courses in canoeing, hill walking, rock climbing or first aid, to mention a few. Discover more at LilliputAdventure.com
