10 Things to Do on the Portlaoise Heritage Trail in Ireland
Portlaoise, located in the Irish Midlands, is a vibrant town with a rich and varied history. From its foundation in the 16th century to its present-day status as a bustling hub of activity, Portlaoise has a lot to offer visitors. To get the most out of your visit to the town, make sure to explore the Portlaoise Heritage Trail. This trail takes you through the town’s history, culture, and attractions, and is a great way to learn more about the area. Here are ten things to do on the Portlaoise Heritage Trail.
1. Visit the Rock of Dunamase. The Rock of Dunamase is a historic site located on a hilltop just outside of Portlaoise. It was once the site of an important castle, and the ruins of the castle are still visible today. The views from the top of the hill are spectacular, and the site is well worth a visit.
2. Explore the Old Jail. The Old Jail in Portlaoise is one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. It was built in the 18th century and served as a prison until the early 20th century. Today, it is a museum and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the prison cells, learn about the history of the jail, and even take part in guided tours.
3. Visit the Irish Military War Museum. The Irish Military War Museum is located in the old barracks in Portlaoise. It houses a collection of artifacts from the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War. Visitors can explore the exhibits and learn more about the history of the region.
4. Take a Walk Through the Town Park. The Town Park is a beautiful green space located in the centre of Portlaoise. It is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll, and there are plenty of attractions to explore. The park is home to the Dunamaise Arts Centre, the Irish Military War Museum, and the Old Jail.
5. Explore the Portlaoise Heritage Trail. The Portlaoise Heritage Trail is a self-guided walking tour of the town. It takes visitors through the town’s history, culture, and attractions. The trail includes stops at some of the town’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Rock of Dunamase and the Old Jail.
6. Visit the Dunamaise Arts Centre. The Dunamaise Arts Centre is located in the Town Park in Portlaoise. It is a vibrant cultural centre that hosts a variety of events and exhibitions. The centre also has a café and a shop, and is the perfect place to take a break from exploring the town.
7. Explore the Portlaoise Heritage Museum. The Portlaoise Heritage Museum is located in the Old Jail in Portlaoise. It houses a collection of artifacts and documents that tell the story of the town’s history. Visitors can learn more about the town’s past, from its foundation in the 16th century to its present-day status as a vibrant hub of activity.
8. Take a Tour of the Monastic Ruins. The Monastic Ruins are located just outside of Portlaoise. They are the remains of a 12th century Cistercian monastery, and are a great place to explore. Visitors can take a guided tour of the ruins and learn more about the history of the area.
9. Visit the Portlaoise Farmers Market. The Portlaoise Farmers Market is held every Saturday in the town centre. It is a great place to buy local produce and other goods, and to sample some of the region’s best food.
10. Explore the Portlaoise Castle. The Portlaoise Castle is located in the centre of the town. It was built in the 16th century and is a great place to explore. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and learn more about the history of the area.