Tullamore

Explore the heritage of Ireland’s 18th-century Grand Canal from bustling Tullamore, where grand buildings like St Catherine’s Church rub shoulders with shops, friendly cafes and independent restaurants.

Just outside town lies a gentle landscape, perfect for exploring on and off the water – cycle or stroll down the historic Grand Canal Way, enjoying its wildflower-strewn banks, humpbacked bridges and marshy bogland, or follow it down to  Ballycowan Castle, Lynally monastery and Boland’s Lock Keeper’s House. Get a dose of art and nature at the Lough Boora Discovery Centre, take in the architecture of Castletown House in nearby County Kildare or simply enjoy a fireside pint in one of the town’s many cosy pubs.