Offaly is a county of ancient boglands, mountains and rivers in the heart of Ireland and is without doubt one of the most visually spectacular and culturally intriguing destinations in the entire country. From the heather covered slopes of the Slieve Bloom Mountains in the south east, to its multitude of hidden valleys and sprawling open moors, Offaly is one of the most majestic counties in Ireland.

Clara Bog is one of the largest remaining intact boglands in all of Western Europe and is recognised as an internationally significant site, not only in terms of the many resident species of birds and wildlife, but also for the numerous historical and archaeological artefacts that have been preserved in its waters. Tours of County Offaly’s bogs are available, giving visitors an insight into the natural and cultural importance of these most fascinating landscapes.

Visitors can similarly enjoy barge and cabin cruising on the Grand Canal and the River Shannon, which separates Offaly from Galway and Roscommon. These waterways have also made County Offaly a favoured destination for all manner of watersports, from fishing to canoeing.

While County Offaly’s magnificent landscapes provide a major draw for many visitors, its long history and proud heritage are an equally strong magnet for tourists. There are many castles, abbeys, and sites of historical interest scattered across the county, including Clonmacnoise, one of the most significant early Christian sites in Ireland, founded by St. Ciaran in 545AD. Other sites of interest include Shannonbridge and Cloghan Castle, the Martello Tower in Bangahar, the Napoleonic Fortifications at Lusmagh, and the magnificent Birr Castle and giant telescope.

While County Offaly is not home to large cosmopolitan cities such as Cork or Dublin, its many small towns and villages exude a unique charm all of their own. Tullamore is the principal town in County Offaly, and is home to Charleville Forest castle, one of the most striking gothic structures in Ireland. The small Georgian town of Birr is equally memorable, having retained much of its 17th century architecture and period charm.