10 Spectacular Things to Do in Stradbally Steam Museum, Portlaoise, Ireland
Nestled in the heart of County Laois, Stradbally Steam Museum is a must-see destination for any traveler visiting Ireland. The museum is home to a unique collection of steam engines, locomotives, and other historic railway artifacts, making it one of the most fascinating places to explore in the country. Here are 10 of the best things to do at Stradbally Steam Museum.
1. Explore the Railway Yard
The Railway Yard at Stradbally Steam Museum is an impressive collection of steam engines, locomotives, and other railway artifacts. You can get up close and personal with the locomotives, and explore the various engines and carriages on display. There are also interactive displays, including a working signal box and a model railway.
2. Take a Ride on the Train
One of the best things to do at Stradbally Steam Museum is to take a ride on the train. The train runs along a 1.5 mile stretch of track, and takes passengers through the beautiful Irish countryside. The journey lasts around 15 minutes, and you can get a real sense of what it was like to travel by steam train in the 19th century.
3. Visit the Museum
The museum at Stradbally Steam Museum is home to a fascinating collection of artifacts and displays. Here you can explore the history of Irish railways, from the early days of the steam engine to the present day. There are interactive displays, photographs, and videos, which bring the history of the railways to life.
4. View the Collection of Historic Locomotives
The museum is home to a collection of historic locomotives, some of which date back to the early 1900s. You can explore the different types of locomotives, from the small and nimble tank engines to the more powerful express locomotives. The locomotives are displayed in their original livery, giving you an insight into the history of Irish railways.
5. Enjoy a Picnic
Stradbally Steam Museum is set in a beautiful park, making it the perfect spot for a picnic. There are plenty of picnic benches, and you can enjoy a peaceful lunch while admiring the views of the surrounding countryside.
6. Take a Tour
The museum offers guided tours, which are a great way to learn more about the history of Irish railways. The tour takes you around the museum and the railway yard, and you can learn about the different engines and carriages on display.
7. Visit the Gift Shop
The museum has a well-stocked gift shop, which is a great place to pick up souvenirs and mementos of your visit. Here you can find a range of railway-themed items, from books to model trains.
8. Explore the Grounds
The museum grounds are home to a variety of interesting attractions, including a miniature railway, a playground, and a picnic area. You can explore the grounds at your own pace, and get a real sense of what it was like to travel by steam train in the 19th century.
9. Take a Ride on the Miniature Railway
The miniature railway is a great attraction for young children. The train runs along a short stretch of track, and takes passengers around the museum grounds. It’s a fun way to explore the museum, and a great way to keep the kids entertained.
10. Learn About the History of Irish Railways
The museum is a great place to learn about the history of Irish railways. There are interactive displays, photographs, and videos, which bring the history of the railways to life. You can also explore the collection of locomotives, and get a real sense of what it was like to travel by steam train in the 19th century.
Stradbally Steam Museum is a fascinating destination for any traveler visiting Ireland. From exploring the railway yard to taking a ride on the train, there are plenty of things to do at the museum. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, Stradbally Steam Museum is sure to have something for everyone.