Things to do in Midlands
Discover the best attractions and experiences Midlands has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient landmarks and storied sites that dot the Midlands, from monastic ruins to hilltop fortresses.
Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
Ancient monastic ruins beside the River Shannon, famed for its round tower, high crosses and long history.
Rock of Dunamase
Dramatic hilltop fortress ruins offering panoramic views over the Laois countryside.
Emo Court
Stately neo-classical mansion with expansive grounds and scenic views near Emo, County Laois.
Museums
Delve into local history, whiskey heritage and riverside stories at Midlands museums and visitor centres.
Athlone Castle Visitor Centre
Medieval fortress turned museum with displays on local history and the Shannon riverfront.
Kilbeggan Distillery Visitor Centre
Historic whiskey distillery with guided tours and exhibits on Irish whiskey heritage.
Tullamore D.E.W. Visitor Centre
Iconic whiskey distillery experience detailing the stories of Ireland’s whiskey making.
Religious Monuments
Visit sacred spaces that mark the Midlands' spiritual and architectural heritage.
St Mel's Cathedral (Longford)
Impressive cathedral and central religious landmark in Longford Town.
Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
Ancient monastic complex near Shannonbridge with round towers and standing crosses.
National & Theme Parks
Green spaces, gardens and parks offering outdoor wandering across the heart of Ireland.
Lough Boora Parklands
Extensive parklands with sculpture trails, wetlands and woodland walks.
Birr Castle Demesne
Historic estate with vast gardens, an impressive arboretum and scenic grounds.
Belvedere House Gardens & Park
Elegant gardens and woodland park with deer, lakes and scenic paths.
Neighborhoods
Key towns that form the Midlands' backbone and offer a mix of riverside charm and market towns.
Athlone
Vibrant riverside town on the Shannon with a lively waterfront and castle history.
Mullingar
Gateway to Lakeland with a pleasant town center and lake scenery nearby.
Portlaoise
County town with a compact center and easy access to the Midlands' countryside.
Tullamore
Co Offaly town known for its whiskey legacy and riverside charm.
Free Things to Do
Simple, budget-friendly ways to enjoy the Midlands without an entry fee.
Walk along the River Shannon in Athlone Quay
Stroll along the water’s edge and watch boats drift by.
Explore Lough Boora Parklands (sculpture trails)
Wander through sculpture trails and wetlands on free-access paths.
Hike in the Slieve Bloom Mountains
Forested ridges and stunning views await along walking trails.
Gastronomy
Regional flavors and whiskey heritage define the Midlands’ culinary scene.
Kilbeggan Distillery Visitor Centre
Historic whiskey distillery with tastings and exhibits.
Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery
Iconic whiskey distillery offering guided tours and tastings.
Nightlife
Evenings come alive with theatre, music and cultural venues across the Midlands.
Dean Crowe Theatre
Athlone venue with live performances, cinema and events.
Birr Theatre & Arts Centre
Cultural venue in Birr with theatre, cinema and live shows.
Dunamaise Arts Centre
Portlaoise venue hosting plays, gigs and community events.
Entertainment
Cultural venues for theatre, cinema and live performances across the region.
Birr Theatre and Arts Centre
Community hub for performances, cinema and events in Birr.
Dunamaise Arts Centre
Portlaoise venue for theatre, music and film.
Sports
Active options from golf to lakeside runs and scenic routes.
Mullingar Golf Club
Challenging parkland course with views over the lake.
Athlone Golf Club
Historic club offering river views and a welcoming atmosphere.
Tullamore Golf Club
Coastal-style course set in the rolling Midland countryside.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and offbeat experiences away from the usual tourist trails.
Slieve Bloom Mountains
Dense forests and ridges ideal for long hikes and panoramic views.
Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre
Iron Age bog road site with preserved trackway and exhibitions.
Birr Great Telescope
Historic astronomical instrument and dark-sky heritage at Birr Castle Demesne.