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Set in the midst of the rural tranquility of the
Irish midlands, County Laois offers the visitor a myriad of places to
visit and things to do. Visit Emo Court & Demesne to the northeast of
Portlaoise - built in 1790, the house is open to the public during the
summer and its grounds have attractive lakeside walks.
Make sure to visit
the towns and villages associated with the Quakers and Huguenots, the
heritage town of Abbeyliex and the waterfalls and valleys of the Slieve
Bloom mountains. Laois boasts several gardens of note as well as excellent
angling, golf and equestrian facilities.
Portlaoise, County Laois
Portlaoise was originally established as the Fort of Maryborough in 1556 under the reign of Queen Mary, and many elements of its garrison
past are still evident throughout the town. The old jail in Portlaoise town centre has been recently
restored to create a multi-purpose arts centre, which regularly hosts a variety of cultural delights.
Just outside Portlaoise lies the Rock of Dunamaise, an ancient Celtic fortification that is reputed
to have been mapped by Ptolemy in the 8th century. The view from the summit is spectacular and well
worth the climb.
All towns in County Laois | Map of County Laois
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