Ireland County Offaly tiny, centrally located and charming County Offaly offers something to every explorer. People who enjoy outdoor pursuits like golfing and fishing will find plenty of things to do. On the other hand, people who are thrilled by history will also find many places to visit in Offaly.
A brief history about County Offaly reveals that its ancient past is preserved in the region’s bogs. Excavations at the Boora bog indicate human habitation as far back as 6,800 BCE. Other parts of a brief history about County Offaly are of a more modern era. The county’s most popular tourist attraction is likely Clonmacnoise, a monastic community dating back to 548 AD. The complex was largely destroyed by the English in 1552, but there are still plenty of interesting ruins.
Places to visit in Offaly also include Birr Castle, a Norman fortress, and the Great Telescope, which had the distinction of being the world’s largest in the middle of the 19th century. Other visitors enjoy a stop at the Lockes Distillery or the Donaghmore Workhouse & Agricultural Museum.
Active things to do also abound in Offaly. Walking trails are plentiful and varied. The Clara Bog Nature Reserve features fantastic walking trails that highlight the county’s natural attractions while the Tullamore Town Trail provides an excellent viewpoint on Offaly’s largest city. The fishing is fantastic at several points along the River Shannon. Golfing at courses like Tullamore, Castle Barna and New Forest is extremely popular.
Many people come to County Offaly to enjoy various special events and festivals. The diverse festivals include storytelling, dance and the visual arts. Other events highlight films or cater specifically to children.
Hotels in County Offaly tend to be luxurious. Nonetheless, there are still hotels that cater to a more budget-conscious traveler. For a slightly more personalized touch that doesn’t skimp on the amenities, many people select one of the local guesthouses. Some are found in urban areas, but the most memorable guesthouses are those located on former estates. Bed and breakfast inns are a perennial favorite in Offaly. Some bed and breakfast rooms are quite elegant and decorated with authentic antiques.
Offaly pubs and restaurants are suitably welcoming and varied. They are fantastic places to discover traditional cuisine or something a bit more exotic. A few restaurants offer an upscale, intimate experience. For something a bit more casual, try one of the County Offaly pubs.
County Offaly Ireland
Ireland County Offaly Clonmacnoise
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