Attractions Tullamore Ireland
Birr Castle - Birr
Birr, county Offaly, is situated on the banks of the River Camcor. The place name "Birr" originated in an Irish term probably used to describe this riverside position, though for many years the town was known as "Parsonstown", as Birr Castle was and still is, home to the Parsons family. Back in 1620 Sir Laurence Parsons was granted 1,277 acres of land and took possession of Birr town. The castle has grown since then and become famous for many things, but mostly for the telescope, which was the largest in the world for over 70 years and was constructed in the 1840s by the Third Earl of Rosse. It was recently restored and is in fine working order.
Charleville Castle - Tullamore
Located at Tullamore, Charleville is Irelands finest gothic revival castle. It is considered to be a masterpiece of Francis Johnstons, who designed the GPO in Dublin. The castle was built between 1798 and 1810. The massive dining room was designed by Sir William Morris.
Clonmacnoise - Shannonbridge
Located at Shannonbridge, on the banks of the river Shannon, one of Ireland's most famous monastic sites, Clonmacnoise was founded by Saint Ciaran in the 6th century. The site includes the ruins of a Cathedral, eight churches dating from the 10th and 13th century, two round towers, three high crosses and a large collection of early Christain grave slabs. The original high crosses and grave slabs are on display in the Visitor Centre. Buried here is the last High King of Ireland - Rory OÇonnor
Leap Castle - Birr
Located South-east of Birr between Kinnity and Roscrea are the remains of Leap Castle. Originally an O'Carroll fortress, it guarded the pass from the Slieve Bloom into Munster. It was destroyed in 1922 during the civil war. Today it hosts occasional Irish music sessions. The site also boasts great views of the Slieve Bloom Mountains.
Slieve Bloom Environmental Mountain Park - Birr
Located at Birr, In contrast with the surrounding plain, this modest 615m high mountain range appears imposing. Blanket bog, green forest with picnic and amenity areas, waterfalls, deep glens and peaceful villages make the area's 155,400 hectares an altogether delightful touring destination.
