a guide to county carlow 2014

Transcription

Walking along the Barrow Way
The Blackstairs Mountains
Carlow Tourism,
College Street, Carlow
t: 059-9130411
e: [email protected]
Visit us online: www.carlowtourism.com
a guide to county carlow 2014
Altamont Gardens
complimentary copy
CARLOW COUNTY MUSEUM t: 059–9131554 www.carlowcountymuseum.ie
FREE county map
through the waters of time
REDDY’S OF CARLOW t: 059–9142224 www.reddyscarlow.ie
TALBOT HOTEL t: 059–9153000 www.talbotcarlow.ie
TEACH DOLMAIN t: 059–9130911
RATHWOOD t: 059–9156285 www.rathwood.com
THE CHOCOLATE GARDEN OF IRELAND t: 059–6481999 www.chocolategarden.ie
MOUNT WOLSELEY HOTEL, SPA & GOLF RESORT t: 059–9180100 www.mountwolseley.ie
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lord bagenal inn/fairgreen
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Barrack Street, Carlow / www.fairgreen.ie / 059 91 43500
Opening Hours
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Monday 9am - 6pm
Tuesday 9am - 6pm
Wednesday 9am-6pm
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Friday 9am - 9pm
Saturday 9am - 6pm
Sunday 12noon - 6pm
The Centre of the Community
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visit us online at www.carlowtourism.com
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introduction to carlow
introduction to carlow
With mountains, glorious countryside and river valleys all close at
hand, Carlow is a county worth discovering and exploring. Against
a beautiful landscape visitors will uncover a great holiday experience
– exhilarating outdoor adventure, traditional rural life, vibrant
shopping and a rich cultural heritage.
Home to three of Ireland’s key national walking routes – e
South Leinster, e Barrow and the Wicklow Ways - the county is
blessed with hundreds of miles of excellent and varied walking. e
golfing visitor will find an impressive variety of golf courses, par 3s
and golf ranges to suit all levels. e Rivers Barrow and Slaney and
their many tributaries provide exciting activities for the passive and
active water enthusiast.
Carlow Town is
convenient to the
major entry points into
Ireland, with Dublin,
Dun Laoghaire and
Rosslare ferryports and
Dublin and Waterford
Airports all within
easy reach. Dublin is
84km, Dublin Airport
is 109km, Rosslare
Europort is 93km and
Waterford Airport is 91km from Carlow Town centre.
AIR: Dublin Airport is a convenient 70 minute drive on continuous
motorway via the M50, M7 and M9 with all international airlines serving
the capital city. Waterford Airport is a 70 minute drive via the R708, R710,
N25, N9, M9 and R448.
Useful web addresses: www.aerarann.com www.aerlingus.com
www.ryanair.com www.flywaterford.com www.dublinairport.com
FERRY: A number of ferry companies serve the south of Ireland from
England and mainland Europe as follows: Stena Line www.stenaline.ie
* Fishguard–Rosslare Europort * Holyhead–Dun Laoghaire, Dublin
* Holyhead–Dublin Port * Cherbourg–Rosslare Europort
Irish Ferries www.irishferries.com
* Pembroke–Rosslare Europort * Roscoff, Brittany–Rosslare
Europort * Cherbourg–Rosslare Europort * Holyhead–Dublin Port
RAIL: Eight services operate to Carlow Town from Dublin Heuston
(and nine return) on a daily basis Monday – Friday, eight services on
Saturday and four services on Sunday. Some of these connections
also serve Kildare, Athy, Bagenalstown (Muinebheag), Kilkenny and
omastown. t: 059–9131633 w: www.irishrail.ie
index
Page 2........................Fairgreen Shopping Centre/Lord Bagenal Inn
Page 3........................Index/Introduction and Access to Carlow
Page 4........................Carlow County Museum/Tourist Office
Page 5........................Duckett’s Grove Design
Page 6........................VISUAL and George Bernard Shaw eatre
Pages 7–8 .................County Calendar of Events
Pages 9–11...............Accommodation Guide, Taxi/Bus Hire
Pages 12–16.............Visitor Attractions/Country/Farmers’ Markets
Pages 17–18.............Waterways of Carlow, Boat Hire, Angling
Pages 19–20.............Walking and Cycling in Carlow
Page 21......................History of Carlow
Co. Carlow is steeped in historical and archaeological artefacts from
pagan sites such as the Brownshill Dolmen to ecclesiastical settlements,
many of which are of national and international significance.
e Carlow Garden Trail is another gem for visitors to enjoy
featuring a collection of eighteen gardening attractions including
great old gardens such those at Altamont and smaller gardens which
are maturing beautifully with time. Award winning garden centres
and forest parks complement the joy of a visit here.
On the arts and culture front the VISUAL Centre for
Contemporary Art and the George Bernard Shaw eatre is a
dynamic multi-disciplinary arts facility presenting the best of local,
national and international work in the visual and performing arts.
BUS: Bus Éireann Expressway/
Interregional services operate over
30 routes and link every major town
and city in the country, providing
direct and regular services making
it the quickest way to an unrivalled
number of destinations. Nine services
to/from Waterford and Dublin/Dublin
Airport to/from Carlow, Monday – Sunday. Pick- up/drop-off points
in the county include Carlow Bus Park (Barrack Street), IT Carlow,
Leighlinbridge Cross and Royal Oak Cross.
Benefits of travelling with Bus Éireann:
* Wi-Fi * Extra comfort seats * Hourly services on many main routes
* Services to major airports around the country * Our modern fleet
of comfortable coaches offers a cost-effective alternative to the hassle
of increasingly restricted car parking, car access in town centres and
motorway tolls. * Even better value when booking online
For further details t: 051–879000 or www.buseireann.ie
JJ Kavanagh serves Carlow Town, IT Carlow
and Royal Oak, Bagenalstown thirteen times
per day – Monday to Sunday – from Dublin
Airport (coach park) and Dublin City (outside
Ulster Bank, Georges Quay). e company
provides an inter-county service (Monday to
Friday only) between Carlow, Tullow, Rathvilly,
Baltinglass and Hacketstown as well as a
Carlow – Portlaoise route via Athy, and Carlow
– Kilkenny twice daily. Coaches available for all types of private hire incl.
day trips and sporting events. Some coaches with Wi-Fi, WC facilities
and air conditioning. Fáilte Ireland approved to five star specification. All
returning passengers should assemble at the coach park, Barrack Street,
Carlow. t: 059–9143081 or w: www.jjkavanagh.ie.
Page 22......................County map
Pages 23–26.............Heritage Walking Trail of Carlow Town & map
Page 27......................Carlow Town and environs map
Pages 28–30.............Carlow Golf Trail
Page 31 ....................Outdoor Activities
Pages 32–36.............Carlow Garden Trail
Page 37......................Carlow Garden Trail/Heritage Trails
Page 38–42 ..............Towns and Villages of Carlow/EFL Schools
Page 43–46 .............Restaurants, Cafés and Bistros
Page 47......................Weekly Entertainment and Pub Guide
Page 48......................Carlow Local Authorities
is project received grant aid from Carlow County Development Partnership Ltd under the Rural Development Programme Ireland 2007–2013 which
is financed by the Irish Government and by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development: Europe investing in Rural Areas.
Disclaimer - While every care has been taken in the compilation of this guide, neither the author nor publisher can accept responsibility for errors or
omissions.Where such errors or omissions occur and are brought to our attention, future editions will be amended accordingly.
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carlow county museum
Carlow County Museum,
College Street, Carlow Town
t: 059–9131554
w: www.carlowcountymuseum.ie
Carlow County Museum brings to life the story of Carlow’s
development through the ages. Among the displays are exhibitions
featuring the magnificently hand-carved nineteenth century wooden
pulpit from Carlow Cathedral which has been included in the
prestigious list ‘A History of Ireland in 100 Objects’ by the Irish Times
newspaper and the Royal Irish Academy; John Tyndall, Carlow’s
prolific nineteenth century scientist whose discoveries still have an
impact to this day; Kevin Barry, a medical student from County
Carlow, was executed in 1920 in Mountjoy Gaol at the age of 18 for
his role in the War of Independence; Captain Myles Keogh was in the
7th US Calvary and was killed in the battle of Little Big Horn along
with General Custer; Carlow Sugar
Factory, Ireland’s first and largest
sugar factory, was opened in 1926
and archaeological finds from
the Carlow by-pass which are on
display for the first time courtesy
of the National Museum of Ireland
and the National Roads Authority.
Be wowed by our 340 million year
old fossil, our 20 ft. pulpit and an
exquisite 2mm Iron Age glass bead! See what you’re missing.
Carlow Town Council in partnership with Carlow Historical and
Archaeological Society has developed the new museum. e museum
is part of Carlow Town’s Cultural Quarter and admission to the
museum is free. e museum is self-guided but tours for groups 10+
can be pre-booked. GPS: 52.836559, -6.928314
OPENING HOURS:
Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. September to May
Monday – Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. June – August
Sundays and Bank Holidays 2 – 4.30 p.m. June – August
Follow us on Twitter: @CarlowCountyMus and like us on Facebook.
VISITOR INFORMATION POINTS
THROUGHOUT COUNTY CARLOW
Rathwood, Rath, Tullow, Co. Carlow. T: 059–9156285
Carlow Rural Information Services Project provide a range
of free tourist literature and internet and e-mail access
for a small fee in their offices, located throughout Co. Carlow.
CRISP Carlow, Castle Hill, Carlow Town. T: 059–9143972
CRISP Tullow, Civic Offices, Tullow T: 059–9181759
CRISP Borris, Lower Main Street, Borris. T: 059–9771899
CRISP Hacketstown, The Green, Hacketstown. T: 059–6471733
Ballon Enterprise Centre, The Old School House, Ballon. T: 059–9159447
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carlow tourist information office
College Street, Carlow Town
t: 059–9131554 e: [email protected]
w: www.carlowtourism.com
e tourist office is located at the junction of Tullow Street and
College Street (within the County Museum and Library buildings)
in the centre of Carlow Town. Pay a visit to our friendly and
knowledgeable local staff to ensure you get the most from your visit
to the county. Many publications on the local area are available free
of charge including the annual South East Ireland Holiday Guide,
Carlow Garden Trail, Trails of the Saints and A Guide to Co. Carlow
2014. Many publications for the rest of the country are also available
free of charge featuring the main tourist attractions, accommodation
guides and maps. e tourist office also provides a booking
accommodation service for Carlow and Ireland. Same opening times
apply for Carlow Tourist Office and Carlow County Museum.
GPS: 52.836559, -6.928314
essential telephone numbers
Emergency:
Fire, Police, Ambulance ......................... 999 or 112
Garda (Police) Station, Carlow........... 059–9131505
Doctors:
Caredoc............................................ 059–9134999
Buses:
Bus Éireann......................................... 051–879000
Rapid Express Coaches...................... 059–9143081
Rail:
Iarnród Éireann ................................. 059–9131633
Tourist Information:
Carlow Tourist Office and Carlow Tourism
College Street, Carlow ...................... 059–9131554
Travel Numbers:
Dublin Airport..................................... 01–8141111
Waterford Airport ............................... 051–846600
Car Ferry:
Irish Ferries, Rosslare Harbour............ 053–9133158
Stena Line, Rosslare Harbour................. 01–204777
duckett’s grove design – craft and gift emporium and tea rooms
Carlow County Development Partnership Ltd. in association with
Carlow Local Authorities are delighted to present Duckett’s Grove
Design – Craft and Gift Emporium, Carlow’s premier showcase
for the collective work of locally based and talented craft makers.
The venue which is located in the courtyard of the Duckett’s
Grove Estate contains a vibrant mix of high end art, craft and
giftware products in the delicately appointed central retail
exhibition space. The venue also includes a tea room facility
providing high quality artisan food to enhance the visitor
experience, serving delicious cakes, snacks and light lunches.
LOCATION: Kneestown, near Carlow Town.
FACILITIES: Large car and coach park, toilets, wheelchair access.
HOW TO FIND US: From Dublin/Waterford take exit 4 on
M9 motorway. Follow signs for Castledermot, then take the R418
Castledermot – Tullow Road for 6km and turn right at the signed
junction. From Carlow take the R726 Hacketstown Road for 10
km to Killerig Cross Roads. Turn left at this junction onto the
R418 for 2.5 km, turn left again at the signed junction.
OPENING TIMES: Friday 12 – 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. End of April – December. t: 059–9163812 or
visit www.duckettsgrove.ie
Duckett’s Grove Walled Gardens, open daily – daylight hours. See
page 34 for further details. GPS: 52.858748, -6.812787
For opening hours of the tea rooms visit
www.facebook.com/thetearoomsatduckettsgrove or t: 085-1136075
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visual
VISUAL centre for contemporary art and george bernard shaw theatre
VISUAL is an iconic arts centre located in
the heart of Carlow Town. is stunning
building creates a space for people to
engage with and explore art, theatre, dance,
film and comedy, by the best of local and
international talent. rough collaborative
partnerships with artists, communities and
development bodies, it is also an incubation
space for new work, with research and
development of a number of new Irish
theatre and dance pieces throughout 2014.
As well as world-class visual art
exhibitions and a packed theatre
programme, come and explore our Spring
lecture series on Modernism in the Link
Gallery; our Cinema Club, bringing you
the best of international cinema; Voice
Box, an informal talk-shop for the creative
industries; our Comedy Club in the GB
Shaw Bar; or bring out your creative side
with dance classes, family art workshops
and artist-led masterclasses; VISUAL
– there’s more to us than meets the eye!
Sign up to our mailing list for access to
news, special offers, extra shows and events
and seasonal brochure. No unwanted mail,
just culture at your fingertips!
Opening Hours – Galleries and Box Office,
Closed Mondays; Tuesday – Saturday
11 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. Sundays 2 – 5 p.m.; and
Box Office opens one hour prior to shows.
GPS: 52.839161, -6.929076
VISUAL Centre for Contemporary Art
and e George Bernard Shaw eatre,
Old Dublin Road, Carlow.
t: 059–9172400 | w: www.visualcarlow.ie/
www.gbshawtheatre.ie
Find us on Facebook and Twitter!
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calendar of events
date and venue
ursday April 24th –
Sunday April 27th
Carlow Town
new
2014
event
description
Easter Féile/Féile na Casca Street entertainment, storytelling, the County Fleadh Cheoil
featuring the best of traditional music, a concert from the
Garda Band, sean nós dancing, live music sessions, history
trail, family entertainment and lots more. As part of the
Carlow Easter Féile , a concert aptly named “Follow Me Up
To Carlow” will be staged in the Seven Oaks Hotel on
ursday 24th April at 8 p.m. It promises to be a wonderful
evening of quality entertainment featuring national and local
artistes of the highest calibre. Topping the bill are two of
Ireland’s best loved performers – Frances Black and Jimmy
Crowley, a legend in the Irish folk music scene.
t: 059–9158105 w: www.carloweasterfeile.ie
Friday May 9th –
Sunday May 11th
Borris House,
Borris
Barrow River
Arts Festival
Sunday May 11th
Headquarters of the
event:
Seven Oaks Hotel,
Athy Road, Carlow
Carlow 2014 Stages Rally Rally consists of nine stages in the general areas of Myshall,
and Ford Escort Challenge Bagenalstown and Nurney. e ever popular MK11 Escort
Challenge, the only one of its kind in Ireland is being held
in conjunction with the main rally.
m: 086–8905657 w: www.mk2challenge.com
Sunday May 18th
Duckett’s Grove, near
Carlow Town
Carlow Vintage and
Classic Motor Club
Vintage Car Display
and Sale
A great opportunity for all the family to enjoy a marvellous
display of vintage and classic cars and tractors from pre-war
to the 1980s. Various activities for all family members, young
and old including craft stalls, auto jumble, fun fair and a tour
of the gardens at Duckett’s Grove. m: 087–6722972
w: www.carlowvintageandclassicmotorclub.com
Saturday May 24th
An Post Rás – stage 7
Ireland’s premier cycle race passes through Co. Carlow
en-route from Carrick-on-Suir to Baltinglass. Over 150
riders can be viewed travelling through Goresbridge, Borris,
Garryhill, Corrabut Gap, Mount Leinster at the Nine
Stones car park and then onwards to Bunclody, Closh
Cross, Ballon, Tullow and Rathvilly. is is the second
last stage of the race and will no doubt see the race leader’s
jersey under pressure.
w: www.anpost.ie/AnPost/IrishCyclingRas/Home/
Sunday June 1st
River Barrow,
Carlow Town
Carlow
Regatta
One of the oldest rowing festivals in the country celebrating it’s
155th year in 2014. Eights, quads and scull racing from 8 a.m.
– 6.30 p.m. t: 087–8129945 e: [email protected]
Friday June 6th –
Sunday June 15th
Carlow Arts
Festival (Éigse 2014)
e Carlow Arts Festival (Éigse) enters its 35th year
championing culture, offering a vibrant and dynamic arts
programme which culminates in a ten-day celebration every June.
Whether large-scale visual art, street carnival, a strong literary
and historical strand, or a riveting music and theatre programme,
this is one of the cornerstones of our cultural calendar.
roughout south
Carlow
Carlow Town, Borris,
Clonegal
Founded and curated by Swiss based musicians, violinist
Maya Homburger and bass player Barry Guy, the festival
presents a weekend of classical music, free improvised jazz,
theatre and an exhibition by Alan Davie.
t: 056–7761497 w: www.barrowriverartsfestival.com
e History Festival of Ireland takes place June 7th – 8th at
Huntington Castle, Clonegal. Speakers include Stephen Rea,
Victoria Glendinning, Tommy Graham, Martin Mansergh,
Myles Dungan, Susan Schreibman, Meg Harper and many more.
Dublin Street Carnival and Street Art Project June 7th – 8th.
e Borris House Festival of Writing and Ideas June 14th
– 15th promises to bring together some of the most intriguing
international minds – novelists, journalists, film-makers, poets,
theatre directors, war correspondents, biographers, artists and
political commentators. Speakers include Sebastian Barry,
Eimer McBride, Mariella Frostrup, Louis de Berniere, William
Dalrymple, and many more.
t: 059–9173381 w: www.carlowartsfestival.com
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calendar of events
date and venue
Sunday June 15th
River Barrow,
Carlow Town
Monday June 23rd
– Friday June 27th
event
Barrow Dragon Boat
Regatta
Dynamic and colourful dragon boating is one of the fastest
growing sports in the world today. Teams are invited to take
part in a fun-filled day of dragon boat racing. No previous
experience required.
t: 059–9161685 w: www.dragonboat.ie
Rose Week
Showcasing the magnificent variety, colour patterns
and scents of the significant rose collection in Altamont
Gardens, this is an event not to be missed. Guided tours
daily at 2 p.m. e gardens are open as normal each day
from 9 a.m. – 6.30 p.m. Pre-booking for group tours
requested. t: 059–9159444 e: [email protected]
Blackstairs Vintage Club
Annual Rally
e 10th annual vintage rally features vintage steam
engines, oil engines, tractors and cars, music, songs, crafts,
stalls and exhibits. Family fun day.
m: 087–6256028
Carlow Garden Festival
e 2014 programme boasts the best ever line-up of garden
personalities. Carol Klein of BBC Gardeners World opens
the festival at a very special event on July 25th. Over 11 days
visitors will meet a number of renowned garden experts
in Carlow’s magnificent gardens and garden centres. is
year’s panel includes Helen Dillon (renowned plants expert),
Robin Lane Fox (Financial Times gardening correspondent),
Matthew Jebb (Director National Botanic Gardens),
Seamus O’Brien (National Botanic Gardens Kilmacurragh),
Paul Martin (Gold Medal Hampton Court Palace Flower
Show), June Blake ( June Blake’s Garden in Wicklow), Dick
Warner and Éanna Ní Lamhna (environmentalists and
broadcasters) and Dermot O’Neill, T.V. personality.
t: 059–9130411 w: www.carlowgardentrail.com
Tullow Agricultural Show
One of the most established agricultural shows in the
country. Tullow Show has something to interest both rural
and urban visitors and young and old. Features food and
craft halls, trade stands, competitions in horses, ponies, cattle,
sheep, art and much more. A great family day out.
w: www.tullowshow.com
Heritage Week
Week of indoor and outdoor events celebrating the rich
heritage the county has to offer and promoting awareness of
our built, natural and cultural heritage. Activities range from
night time bat walks, wildlife tours and lectures to music
recitals, historical re-enactments and outdoor activities.
Taste of Carlow Food
and Craft Fair
Artisan food and craft fair on the riverside promenade
in Carlow Town. A free event, it promises a great deal
of entertainment and over 40 stands by leading Carlow
craft and food producers and restaurants. Celebrity chef
appearances, food demonstrations, face painting, bouncy
castles, barrel train and animal display area for the kids.
Huntington Halloween
Experience
A halloween spookfest at a genuine haunted castle! with
ghosts, ghouls and screams. Family tours suitable for
under12s available as well as over 12s / adult only tours.
Advance booking required. www.huntingtoncastle.com
from September. t: 053–9377160
Altamont Gardens,
Tullow, Co. Carlow
Sunday July 6th
Myshall Village
Friday July 25th –
Monday August 4th
roughout
Co. Carlow
Sunday August 17th
Coppenagh,
Tullow, Co. Carlow
Saturday August 23rd
– Sunday August 31st
roughout the county
Sunday August 31st
e Barrow Track,
River Barrow,
Carlow Town
Saturday October 25th
– Friday October 31st
description
Saturday November
Santa Train
Ireland’s most popular Santa visit. With 40,000 very happy
15th – Wednesday
visitors last year this unique Santa Experience is a must for all
December 24th
lovers of Christmas. Mrs. Claus and the elves will assist Santa
Rathwood, Rath,
and give out a very special present.
Tullow, Co. Carlow
t: 059–9156285 w: www.rathwood.com
A full calendar of events including a Christmas in Carlow programme is available from Carlow Tourist Office or www.carlowtourism.com
8
accommodation
BED AND BREAKFASTS
address
phone & facebook
email & website
Green Lane, Dublin Road, Carlow
GPS: 52.841943, -6.917051
t: 059-9174222
w: www.avlonhouse.com
Barrow Lodge
The Quay, Carlow
GPS: 52.837184, -6.936794
t: 059-9141173/086-1736485
w: www.barrowlodge.com
Green Lane House
GPS: 52.843152, -6.915876
t: 059-9142670
w: www.greenlanehouse.ie
Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow
GPS: 52.741145, -6.976909
t: 059-9721116/085-1479236
w: www.rathvindenhouse.com
St. Mullins, Co. Carlow
GPS: 52.48807, -6.923404
t: 051-424936/087-6962479
w: www.mulvarra.com
t: 059-8625176/087-6104108
w: www.coolanowle.com
CARLOW TOWN AREA
Avlon House B&B
LEIGHLINBRIDGE AREA
Rathvinden House
ST MULLINS AREA
Mulvarra House
and Body Treatment
Centre
FARMHOUSES
CARLOW TOWN AREA
Coolanowle Country
Ballickmoyler, Co. Carlow
House and Organic Farm GPS: 52.910506, -7.023563
RATHVILLY AREA
Baile Ricéad
Ricketstown, Rathvilly, Co. Carlow t: 059-9161120/087-2440622
GPS: 52.892509, -6.739739
w: www.bailericead.com
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Green Lane, Dublin road, Carlow Town
Tel: 059 9174222 Fax: 059 9173829
Web: www.avlonhouse.com
Email: [email protected]
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Green
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9
accommodation
HISTORIC HOUSES
address
phone & facebook
BAGENALSTOWN AREA
Kilgraney House
Kilgraney, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow t: 059-9775283
and Herb Gardens
GPS: 52.653691, -6.954276
Lorum Old Rectory
GPS: 52.648882, -6.94858
email & website
w: www.kilgraneyhouse.com
w: www.lorum.com
GUESTHOUSES
CARLOW TOWN AREA
Barrowville Townhouse Kilkenny Road, Carlow
GPS: 52.832432, -6.933904
t: 059-9143324
w: www.barrowville.com
Carlow Guesthouse
GPS: 52.84092, -6.91731
t: 059-9136033
w: www.carlowguesthouse.com
Main Street, Borris, Co. Carlow
GPS: 52.601116, -6.927293
t: 059-9773209
w: www.stephousehotel.ie
Kilkenny Road, Carlow
GPS: 52.813953, -6.951482
t: 059-9142002
w: www.woodforddolmenhotel.ie
Seven Oaks Hotel
Athy Road, Carlow
GPS: 52.841072, -6.929392
t: 059-9131308
w: www.sevenoakshotel.com
Talbot Carlow
Portlaoise Road, Carlow
GPS: 52.845989, -6.942531
t: 059-9153000
w: www.talbotcarlow.ie
HOTELS
BORRIS AREA
Step House Hotel
CARLOW TOWN AREA
Woodford Dolmen
Hotel
LEIGHLINBRIDGE AREA
The Lord Bagenal Inn
TULLOW AREA
Mount Wolseley Hotel,
Spa and Golf Resort
Main St, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow t: 059-9774000
GPS: 52.736553, -6.975927
w: www.lordbagenal.com
Tullow, Co. Carlow
GPS: 52.794127, -6.726721
w: www.mountwolseley.ie
t: 059-9180100
SELF-CATERING
10
BAGENALSTOWN AREA
Kilgraney House
and Herb Gardens
GPS: 52.653691, -6.954276
GRAIGUENAMANAGH/TINNAHINCH AREA
Mount Brandon Holiday Tinnahinch, Graiguenamanagh
Cottages & Pottery School GPS: 52.53724, -6.947174
t: 059-9724789/085-7317501
w: www.mountbrandoncottages.com
ST. MULLINS AREA
Old Grain Store Cottages The Quay, St. Mullins, Co. Carlow
GPS: 52.4877, -6.92902
t: 051-424440
w: www.oldgrainstorecottages.ie
TULLOW AREA
Mount Wolseley Hotel,
Spa and Golf Resort
t: 059-9180100
Tullow, Co. Carlow
GPS: 52.794127, -6.726721
taxis
TAXIS AND BUS HIRE
CARLOW CABS
4 Dublin St., Carlow Town
t: 059 - 9140000
freephone 1800 CARLOW
w: www.carlowcabs.com
Largest taxi company in Carlow. 24
hours per day, seven days per week.
Chauffeur driven service, airport and
early morning bookings. Friendly,
presentable, professional drivers.
ERIN CABS
Carlow Town
Freephone 1800744744
t: 086-0457248
Premier taxi service in Carlow Town.
24 hour fast and reliable. 4, 7, 8 seater
and wheechair taxis available. Airport
and early morning bookings.
McEVOY BUS HIRE
Station Road,
Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow
t: 087-2565144/059-9721637
Efficient and highly reliable coach
and hackney hire. 14 – 53 seater
coaches for hire. Recovery service
available.
ROBERTS COACHES
Myshall, Co. Carlow
t: 059-9157743/087-2842922
14–53 seater coaches available for
daily or extended hire. Full nationwide
service. Friendly and reliable.
TIPP’S CABS AND COACHES
t: 087-2217524/059-9147070
Provide efficient, high quality and
excellent value taxi, coach and minibus hire. 14, 24, 29 and 33 (Mann)
seater coaches. Full PA system on
luxurious 33 seater.
Tinnahinch Castle and Weir
11
visitor attractions
heritage attractions
Bishop Daniel Delany Museum,
Brigidine Convent, Tullow, Co. Carlow
During the early years of
the nineteenth century the
then Bishop of Kildare
and Leighlin, Daniel
Delany saw education as
a pathway to a fuller and
better life for all. In 1807
to progress his vision he
founded a congregation
of sisters, the Brigidine
Sisters, named in honour
of St. Brigid, the patroness of the diocese. A year later in 1808 he
founded the Patrician Brothers, named in honour of the patron saint
of Ireland, St. Patrick. e main focus of the museum is a display
of artefacts relating to Bishop Daniel Delany and to the work of the
Sisters and Brothers. Over the past 200 years both congregations have
founded many schools not only in Ireland but also in England, Wales,
Australia, New Zealand, America, Ghana, India, Kenya, Pakistan,
Papua New Guinea, Mexico and China. For many years the nearby
Mount Wolseley estate (now a hotel) was the Patrician Brothers world
headquarters.
HOW TO FIND US: Entrance to the museum is in the grounds of
the Brigidine Convent in Tullow Town which is located beside the
Church of the Most Holy Rosary. ere is ample car and bus parking.
GPS: 52.801616, -6.733108
OPENING TIMES: e museum will be specially opened during
2014 on the following dates: Heritage Week: Sunday August 24th and
Sunday August 31st from 12 – 4 p.m.
For access to the museum at other times please pre-book by contacting
the Tullow Parish Community Centre at 059–9151277 during office
hours. ADMISSION CHARGES: Free.
Borris House, Borris, Co. Carlow t: 059–9771884
e: [email protected] w: www.borrishouse.com
Borris House, the
ancestral home of
the MacMurrough
Kavanaghs, Kings
of Leinster, is one of
the few Irish estates
that can trace its
history back to the
Royal families of
ancient Ireland and
the tour covers all
aspects of the history of the house, from the original fifteenth century
castle, through its many subsequent changes and alterations, right up to
the present day. e tour also takes in the rich history of the Kings of
Leinster as well as an introduction to the many interesting characters
within the family who helped shape the house, estate and village of
Borris as we see it today. ere are so many things to admire on the
tour from the beauty of the Stapleton ceilings to the unique Chapel
of St. Moling, situated beside the house as well as a room by room
description of the exceptional architecture, antique furniture, porcelain
and paintings on display. A small selection of the Borris Lace can also be
viewed. Borris House offers one of the finest and most personal guided
tours in Ireland that promises to fill you with inspiration. Venue for
the Barrow River Arts Festival May 9th – 11th and the Borris House
Festival of Writing and Ideas June 14th – 15th.
HOW TO FIND US: In the centre of Borris Village, in south Carlow.
GPS: 52.598644, -6.926618
OPENING TIMES: ere is usually a house tour every ursday and
Sunday at 3 p.m. from May – August. Please check website for details.
On all other dates tours of the house can be arranged by appointment
12
for groups only by telephoning 059–9771884. Lunch and/or tea can
be provided for visiting groups with prior notice.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Adult €10, senior citizens €8, free for
children under 16 years. Only suitable for children from 13 years upwards.
St. Laserian’s Cathedral,
Old Leighlin, Co. Carlow
t: 059–9721570
A thirteenth century
gem which nestles in the
village of Old Leighlin
(Leath gleann – half-glen).
e original monastic
settlement dates from
the seventh century
and at its peak had a
community of 1,500
monks. A synod held
here in 630 A.D. was
decisive in reconciling the date of Easter for the Irish church. e
cathedral embraces a fascinating and often violent history of Viking
raids, murder and religious turbulence. Its thirteenth century nave
and chancel and its fifteenth century tower and Lady Chapel remain
largely unchanged. Also to be seen is the unique four-bay sedilia,
the twelfth and thirteenth century fonts and the splendid Catherine
O’Brien East Window. Today, St. Laserian’s remains an unspoilt
and magical place. Nearby is St. Laserian’s Well with its celtic cross
believed to date from the time of the saint. Buses, educational and
pilgrim tours welcome.
M9 motorway and follow signs for Leighlinbridge. St. Laserian’s
Cathedral is signposted off the R448, 2km beyond the village of
Leighlinbridge. GPS: 52.737278, -7.023601
OPENING TIMES: Easter Weekend – end September seven days
per week from 12 – 4 p.m. and/or by arrangement. t: 059–9721570.
ADMISSION CHARGES: free, however a donation of €2 is greatly
appreciated towards the cathedral’s upkeep and development.
St. Mullins Heritage Centre,
St. Mullins, Co. Carlow t: 087-9977090/087–9013672
w: www.stmullinsheritagecentre.com
e former Church
of Ireland Church,
originally built in
1811, now houses the
St. Mullins Heritage
Centre, situated beside
the famous monastic
ruins and cemetery. All
aspects of local history
including publications,
church records, maps, old photographs and artefacts are housed here
and provide a fascinating account of village and rural life over the
centuries. A completely revamped modern display opened in 2010.
Genealogy service and guided tours by appointment.
HOW TO FIND US: 14km south of Borris, off the R729 Borris
– New Ross Road. GPS: 52.491145, -6.929860
OPENING TIMES: Heritage Centre open May – September Sunday
2 – 6 p.m., Monday and Tuesday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Rest of year Monday,
Tuesday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. and every second Wednesday 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Other times by arrangement, telephone in advance.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Free, however donations greatly
appreciated towards upkeep of the centre. Small charge applies to
guided tours.
visitor attractions
heritage attractions
Tullow Museum, Tullow, Co. Carlow
t: 086–3416919 (during opening times), 087–2383515
(anytime)
Housed in an attractive, stone built,
former Methodist church at the River
Slaney Bridge. Tullow Museum features a
splendid collection of artefacts reflecting
local history, in particular Fr. Murphy’s
connection with the town, including
what are alleged to be his last vestments.
Fr. Murphy championed Ireland’s cause
for freedom in the battles of 1798. He
was eventually captured near Tullow
and executed in the town square where a monument now stands in his
memory. e museum also features a collection of local photographs
and information on burial grave stones. e museum welcomes any
information or artefacts for display purposes especially photographs (on
loan or for gift).
HOW TO FIND US: Beside the River Slaney Bridge in Tullow.
GPS: 52.802153, -6.738044
OPENING TIMES: Until end of October: Sundays and Bank Holidays
2 – 5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, ursday and Friday 2 – 4 p.m. Closed
Monday and Saturday. Other times by appointment.
ADMISSION CHARGES: free, voluntary contributions welcome.
The Weavers Cottages,
Clonegal, Co. Carlow
t: 053–9377575/087–9489342
e Durdin or Weavers Cottages were
built by Alexander Durdin in the late
seventeenth century. ey were lived
in by weavers when the trade was
at its height and now feature many
items, artefacts, furniture and pictures
from bygone times. e development
comprises a pair of semi-detached, two-bay, single-storey dormer cottages
with attic conversion. Beautiful heritage garden to the rear. e House
of Song and Story is held on the third Monday of every month in St.
Brigid’s Community Hall, Clonegal 8 p.m. – late. All are welcome. Light
refreshments served.
HOW TO FIND US: In the village of Clonegal. Clonegal is situated
10km from the village of Ballon off the N80 and 17km from Tullow.
GPS: 52.695653, -6.648532
OPENING TIMES: April – October: Monday – Friday 12 – 4 p.m.
ADMISSION CHARGES: free, voluntary contributions welcome.
family fun activities
The Chocolate Garden of Ireland
Rath, Tullow, Co. Carlow t: 059–6481999
w: www.chocolategarden.ie
Heaven for lovers of chocolate and
ice cream everywhere, the Chocolate
Garden of Ireland offers chocolate
workshops regularly, has a delicious
coffee shop (serving Ireland’s best
hot chocolate!) and an ice cream
parlour, all located at its chocolate
and ice cream factory. e Chocolate
Garden of Ireland is a great venue for tour groups, a themed party, hen
party, birthday party or school tour. Workshops and parties must be
pre-booked. Mould making is available daily, no booking necessary. Set
in beautiful south-west Wicklow, between Tullow and Shillelagh, e
Chocolate Garden of Ireland has become popular with all ages – from
school tours and pre-school groups to active retirement groups, everyone
family fun activities
is a kid when it comes to delicious chocolate. Spacious parking, indoor
and outdoor seating and free childrens’ play area. Wheelchair and buggy
friendly.
HOW TO FIND US: On the R725 between Tullow and Shillelagh, 5
km from Tullow; next door to Rathwood and Woodlands Falconry.
GPS: 52.799523, -6.661875
OPENING TIMES: Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.,
Sunday and Bank Holidays 1 – 6 p.m.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Workshops require advanced booking
Mould making available daily without booking. €12.50 per person.
For group rates contact Chocolate Garden of Ireland directly.
Mad For Models, Burton Hall, Carlow
t: 059–9163749,
087–2670737, 086–8246135
w: www.madformodels.ie
Mad For Models is a family-owned
business based at Burton Hall,
approximately 2km from Duckett’s
Grove Historic House and Walled
Gardens. An extensive range of farm
toys for children from 3 years and collectable scale models from 14 years
upwards. Tommy and Madeline pride themselves on keeping a full cross
section of stock for the collector and visitor alike. e farm toy store
stocks an amazing variety of different models for sale and visitors can
also view some of the extensive collection of models on display.
HOW TO FIND US: Signposted from R448 and Duckett’s Grove.
GPS: 52.861936, -6.846017
OPENING TIMES: Seven days per week. Times and details available
on www.madformodels.ie. ADMISSION CHARGES: Free.
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visitor attractions
family fun activities continued
other visitor attractions
Rancho Reilly Pet Farm and Childrens’ Activity Centre
Springhill Road, Carlow
t: 087–7701181 w: www.ranchoreilly.com
Follow us on facebook and twitter: Rancho Reillys
Set on five acres, this
friendly, family-run, popular
pet farm features a range of
animals including bearded
dragons, snakes, mangalitsa
(shig/hairy pig), pot bellied
pigs, reindeer, goats, falabella
miniature horses, donkeys,
lambs/sheep/rams, rabbits,
guinea pigs, hamsters,
turkeys, hens, ducks and
canaries. A haven of relaxation for parents who can watch their children
enjoy a pony ride, a trip on the Rancho Reilly Barrel Train, obstacle
course, sunken trampolines, ride-on track with go-karts, tractors, scooters
and bikes. Children can also enjoy miniature golf, basketball, tyre swings,
slides, roundabouts and forts. Inside there are soft play areas with ball
pool and slides. Rancho Reillys is an ideal place for a family day out,
birthday party or school tour. Café serves scones, muffins, tarts and other
sweet treats, toasted sandwiches, dressed fries, nuggets and sausages.
HOW TO FIND US: Located on the Springhill Road on the
outskirts of Carlow Town .4km from Graiguecullen Swimming Pool
and 1.6km from Carlow Post Office.
GPS: 52.83185, -6.96025
OPENING TIMES: 7 days per week during school holidays 11.30
a.m. – 6 p.m. All Bank Holidays 11.30 a.m. – 6 p.m. For other times
consult the website or visit us on facebook.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Children over one year €5.50, all adults €3.
Carlow Brewing Company
Muine Bheag Business Park, Royal Oak Road,
Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow t: 059–9720509
w: www.carlowbrewing.com
O’Hara’s award-winning Irish craft beer range is
brewed by the independent family-owned Irish
brewery Carlow Brewing Company, founded in
1996. Inspired by our heritage and embracing
modern Ireland, O’Hara’s brew an increasing range
of traditional and contemporary award winning
craft beers, keeping it real and brewing in the flavour.
O’Hara’s craft beers can be found nationwide in Ireland and in over 20
countries around the world in pubs, restaurants and off-licences.
HOW TO FIND US: Carlow Brewing Company is situated off the
R448 Carlow–Kilkenny Road on the outskirts of Bagenalstown.
Follow signs for Bagenalstown. GPS: 52.695913, -6.980011
OPENING TIMES: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Brewery tours available on
ursday afternoons, by prior appointment.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Adults: €10, group rates (10+): €7.50.
MISSI.50
Birds of prey
“Escape & Enjoy”
Train & Woodland walks
Ladies Boutiques
Gifts & Furniture
Restaurant
�� Tullow, Co. Carlow
14
Tel:059 9156285 Web: www.Rathwood.com
visitor attractions
The Lace Gallery, Carrigslaney,
Kilbride, Co. Carlow.
t: 059–9155676/087–2886719
w: www.thelacegallery.com
Mary O’ Neill makes small, delicate pieces
of the famous Irish Carrickmacross Lace
from her studio in Carrigslaney, close to Altamont Gardens. All pieces are
designed by Mary featuring Irish symbols including the Shamrock and
Claddagh. Each piece of her work is signed, dated and numbered and is
presented as a framed wall piece that makes an attractive gift for any home.
HOW TO FIND US: 4km from the N80 at Kilbride Cross (e
Forge Restaurant). Pass Altamont Gardens, the Lace Gallery is
2.5 km from this point on the right hand side of the road.
GPS: 52.753433, -6.736524
OPENING TIMES: April–September, Monday – Friday 11 a.m. – 5
p.m. Saturday and Sunday 2 – 6 p.m. Other times by arrangement.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Free.
Malone’s Fruit Farm and Farm Shop, Artisan Food and
Gifts, Closh, Ballon, Co. Carlow
t: 059–9159477 m: 086–8472765
Malone’s Fruit Farm is a family- run
business growing a variety of soft fruit.
e farm shop sells a large selection of
artisan food and gifts with particular
attention to local and Irish products.
Fresh fruit is available in our farm
shop from mid-May to early October
while frozen fruit and a full range of
homemade products are available all
year round. We are proud of our traditional homemade recipes and
quality soft fruit which have proven very successful in the market.
e farm grows strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, gooseberries,
loganberries, tayberries, redcurrants, blackcurrants, whitecurrants
and rhubarb. Find us on facebook at ‘malone fruit farm’ for updates on
products available.
HOW TO FIND US: Located outside the village of Ballon on the
N80 near the N81 junction, 1.5km from Altamont Gardens, 1km
from e Forge Restaurant, 19km from Carlow, 1km from Ballon and
8km from Tullow and Bunclody. GPS: 52.733482, -6.744071
OPENING TIMES: May 1st – October 31st – 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Monday to Saturday, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday. November – April
10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Wednesday – Saturday, 1 – 5 p.m. Sunday.
Woodlands Falconry, Rathwood, Rath,
Tullow, Co. Carlow t: 059–9156878
w: www.woodlandsfalconry.com
Woodlands Falconry is an educational Bird
of Prey Centre where the public can get
close up and enjoy these majestic birds. On
view are a selection of hawks, falcons and
owls from around the world, including the
Turkey Vulture and recently re-introduced
Red Kite and Golden Eagle. Take a pleasant
and personal “Hawk Walk” through the adjoining woodland. We also
cater for school tours, scout groups etc.
HOW TO FIND US: In the grounds of Rathwood off the R725
Tullow – Shillelagh Road, 5km from Tullow Town.
GPS: 52.796308, -6.660015
OPENING TIMES: Wednesday – Sunday (and all Bank Holidays)
11 a.m. – 5 p.m. ADMISSION CHARGES: Available on request.
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indoor activities
farmers, country markets & orchards
The Ivy Rooms, Unit 8, Barrow Valley Retail Park,
Graiguecullen t: 059–9137714
e: [email protected] facebook: Ivy Rooms Carlow
Twelve full-sized championship
snooker tables, six American pool
tables, two English pool tables and
four table tennis tables. Four dart
boards. Venue for national and
international snooker championships. Café serving hot and cold
meals all day. Video games area.
OPENING TIMES: 11 a.m.
until late, seven days per week. Booking facility available.
GPS: 52.845873, -6.943510
RATE PER HOUR: €10 (snooker), €8 (pool and table tennis). Special
daytime rate available. 20% discount for students, groups and senior
citizens. Loyalty card scheme in operation.
guided tours
Candy Tours t: John Candy 087–2632324.
e: [email protected] w: www.candytours.ie
Custom designed tours throughout Carlow
and Ireland. Tours on offer include Rambling
House tours, private and family tours, garden,
religious or day trip tours. Experienced guide
John Candy will guide you throughout your
trip offering a mix of interesting and historic
facts. Entertainment each evening of tour. Full itinerary provided
based on client requirements.
Carlow Tours, Bianka McDonagh,
Carlow Town t: 087–6509880
e: [email protected] w: www.carlowtours.ie
Guided day trips with a difference.
Covering Carlow and the South-East
you can experience tranquil villages as
well as lively towns. Ideal for individuals
and small groups. Hidden gems off the beaten tourist track or well
known attractions. Customised tours for every taste. All trips are also
available in the German language.
pottery school
Mount Brandon Cottages and Pottery School
Tinnahinch, Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny
t: 059 – 9724789 GPS: 52.53724, -6.947174
w: www.mountbrandoncottages.com
Mount Brandon Pottery
School is run by Carmen
Wenner. is new,
purpose-built pottery
school is located on
the grounds of Mount
Brandon Cottages, a
mere 5 minutes walk
from the medieval town
of Graiguenamanagh. Whether you are a beginner or someone
who has been bitten by the clay bug, this is the place for you!
Why not take a virtual tour of the pottery school by visiting:
www.bit.ly/mountbrandonpottery
16
guided tours/indoor activities/
farmers and country markets
Borris Food and Craft Market,
Town Hall, Borris, Co. Carlow
t: 087–6311284
Borris Food and Craft Market is a one–stop shop for the best in
locally sourced produce such as home baking, savouries, cheese,
preserves, pickles, eggs, fruit, vegetables, fish and flowers. e market
also houses a good selection of local artists and craftspeople showcasing
woodturning, paintings, jewellery, knitting and hand-printed childrens’
wear. A warm welcome is always assured, with freshly brewed tea and
coffee served with home baked biscuits and cakes.
GPS: 52.600113, -6.924250
HOW TO FIND US: Borris Food and Craft Market takes place every
Friday morning from 9.30 a.m. – 12.30 p.m. in Borris Town Hall.
Carlow Farmers Market
Celebrating
10 Years
Potato Market / Liberty Tree, Carlow Town
t: 085–1956221
w: www.carlowfarmersmarket.com
Celebrating its 10th year in business
in 2014, Carlow Farmers’ Market is
a food-based market that has proven
hugely popular as customers embrace
the wide variety of fresh fruit, vegetables,
meats, juices and home baking on offer
here. The market is held each Saturday
morning from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the
Potato Market and Liberty Tree in the
centre of Carlow Town, a well-designed
space, set in bright and modern surroundings. Foodstuffs available
at the market include fresh fruit and vegetables, organic meats and
vegetables, dry-aged meats, cheeses, juices, jams, chutneys, free-range
and organic eggs, crepes, beverages, ready prepared meals and desserts.
A huge array of home baking including gluten-free and spelt breads.
Fresh flowers are also on sale. GPS: 52.835270, -6.929374
HOW TO FIND US: Every Saturday, Potato Market and Liberty
Tree, Carlow Town 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Gilberts Orchards and Farm Shop
Quinagh, Carlow
t: Alan Gilbert 086 – 8598940
e: [email protected] w:www.applebarrel.ie
Orchard and Farm Shop selling Irish Apple Juice, local
new cheese, farmhouse jam, marmalade and chutneys, Irish
2014 apples in season and an occasional selection of home baking.
Look out for National Apple Blossom Week when there will be Apple
Blossom walks. GPS: 52.835270, -6.929374
Opening Times: Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
HOW TO FIND US: Located very close to Carlow Town on the
N80 Rosslare / Ballon Road. At Ken Blacks toy store turn right,
follow one mile of country road and Gilberts is on the left hand side.
angling and river barrow
boat hire
Barrowline Cruisers Ireland, Vicarstown,
Co. Laois t: 057–8626060 m: 087–9887241
e: [email protected] w: www.barrowline.ie
Barrowline Cruisers is a
friendly, family-owned
barge hire company,
providing well-equipped
self-drive barges varying
in size from 2 berth
narrowboats to 8 berth
wide beams. Their base
on the Grand Canal is
ideally located to allow
you to explore the full
extent of the tranquil waters of the Grand Canal and the more lively
waters of the River Barrow – two totally different cruising experiences.
Weekly and short break hire available. GPS: 53.051669, -7.083805
Larry’s Barge, The Quay, St. Mullins, Co. Carlow
w: www.larrysbarge.com
new Experience
2014 the elegance
and beauty of
the River Barrow while
cruising on your own
private barge, winding
its way through natural,
historic landscapes.
Sit back and enjoy
breathtaking scenery, this
is unspoilt Ireland …at its
best! Weekend and week
long hire available.
Alternatively, charter Larry’s barge with an experienced skipper for a
day trip for up to six, or a three day cruise for up to four people. On
our three day cruise explore woodland trails, historic sites and sleepy
villages. Enjoy evenings moored along the riverbank and take in some
fishing before dining on board. GPS: 52.4877, -6.92902
angling – rivers barrow and slaney
The River Barrow is renowned as a coarse and game angling river
for bream, roach, dace, hybrids, rudd, perch and pike – for which the
Irish river records are held – brown trout, sea trout and salmon. The
river has easy access points and a towpath which runs the length of
its course in Co. Carlow. In 2014 a catch and release policy applies in
respect of all salmon, while the river is closed for all eel fishing. The
salmon and brown trout season on the River Barrow commenced on
March 17th and finishes on September 30th. Other fishing (with the
exception of salmon and brown trout) is available year round.
Good brown trout fishing can be enjoyed at a number of locations
along the river and on its tributaries. Last year the River Barrow in
the Carlow area produced a new specimen brown trout weighing in
at 2.32kg (5.06lb), measuring 60cm in length. Between Goresbridge
and Graiguenamanagh and at Milford fish stocks are very good
and brown trout of up to 2lbs can be caught. Below the weir in St.
Mullins the trout are small (.5lb) but plentiful. The rivers Greese
and Lerr, tributaries of the River Barrow can provide excellent brown
trout fishing while the River Burrin is one of the finest trout fly
fishing rivers in the region.
The excellent stocks of quality pike are one of the main attractions for
anglers on the River Barrow, with abundant stocks of 20+lbs, and the
river still holds the Irish record for the largest pike ever caught. Pike
angling is carried out on all stretches of the river between Athy and
St. Mullins with the main locations being Bahana Wood (just above
St. Mullins), Graiguenamanagh and Ballytiglea Bridge near Borris.
Pike, bream and hybrids are the primary species but rudd is also
abundant here.
The River Barrow is truly the last remaining fishery for twaite shad
where they still enter in large numbers. They are normally caught by
spinning but can also be caught on the fly. These fish provide great
sport and an annual competition is held at St. Mullins during May.
In 2014 there is a catch and release policy for salmon fishing on the
River Slaney in order to conserve stocks. Sea trout fishing under
40cm is allowed (bag limit of three fish per 24 hours) as is brown
trout fishing. It is prohibited to use any lure other than artificial
fly with single barbless hooks, in angling for salmon and trout on
the River Slaney. The trout and salmon season on the River Slaney
commenced on March 17th and finishes on September 16th. Fishing
on the River Slaney is mainly private – day tickets on Tullow Fishing
Club waters are available at the Quick–Pick Shop, Abbey Street,
Tullow (Club Secretary, John Duffy 059–9152740). A State licence is
required
to fish for salmon and sea trout. The Slaney gets a
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A journey along Carlow’s gentle waterways leads the visitor to a tranquil
bygone time. The Rivers Barrow and Slaney and their many tributaries
provide exciting activities for the passive and active water enthusiast.
The River Barrow runs for 192 km from its source in the Slieve Bloom
Mountains to the sea. The Barrow is a picturesque navigation, with
short canal cuts by-passing shallow stretches of the river. It winds its
way through a wooded valley, past small and friendly towns, villages and
open farmland. A map of the River Barrow is featured on page 19 of
this publication. See www.barrowriver.ie for more details.
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17
angling
angling information
reasonable run of spring salmon and the average weight of the salmon
is 8 – 10 pounds. A small number of grilse are also taken annually. The
river gets a run of sea-trout as far as Kilcarry Bridge with the best time
being from the end of June to August. Brown trout fishing is allowed
and is fly only.
LICENCES: A state licence is only required to fish for salmon
and sea trout. All-Ireland salmon fishing licence - €100 per year
Salmon district licence – €56 per year
21-day All Ireland or district salmon fishing licence – €40
Under-17 All-Ireland salmon fishing licence – €10
1-day All-Ireland salmon fishing licence – €20
TROUT PERMITS on the River Burrin. Adults – €25, Senior
Citizens – €15, Juvenile – €10. A licence and/or permit may be
obtained from Murph’s, Tullow Street, Carlow Town.
Murph’s Fishing Tackle
Unit 2 Lismard House, Tullow Street, Carlow
w: www.murphsfishing.com www.fishingtackledirect.ie
Murph’s Fishing Tackle is the ideal outlet for supplies of all types of
fishing equipment – for the
GPS: 52.836149, -6.926452
serious and not so serious
angler. Suppliers of ground
bait pellets, live bait and
dead bait. Stockists of a large
selection of reels and rods.
Information on fishing in the
local area is provided as well
as licences for salmon and
permits for trout.
Fishing at Leighlinbridge on the Barrow
Southern County Fishing Resort and Wildlife Park,
Milltown, Garryhill, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow.
t: 059–9157773/087–9655544 GPS: 52.67549, -6.83715
e: [email protected] w: www.southerncounty.ie
Southern County Fishing Resort is located on 45
acres of beautifully landscaped surroundings with
breathtaking views, only 10 minutes off the M9
motorway (exit 5) in Carlow. Whether you’re an
expert fisherman or just beginning to learn the sport
of fishing this is the perfect place for you to hone
your skills. With three lakes requiring different
degrees of skill you will be sure to satisfy your
fishing experience level. The resort has something
to offer the whole family with a continuously
expanding wildlife park which is
home to a variety of animals and
natural wildlife which can be fed,
observed and petted. There is
also a coffee shop with a veranda
overlooking a tranquil waterfall.
facilities
Carlow Town: Waterways Ireland has provided an 84 metre floating
jetty for Carlow Town on the Graiguecullen side of the river, just
downstream of the steps in Carlow Town Park. Slipways have
been provided in Carlow Town Park, Clogrennane, Bagenalstown,
Goresbridge and Graiguenamanagh.
Leighlinbridge: Berthing for up to 25 boats is offered on the banks of
the River Barrow beside the Lord Bagenal Inn. t: 059–9774000.
Reference Guide: Waterways Ireland Guide to the Barrow Navigation
of Ireland. Available from www.iwai.ie, libraries and bookshops.
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walking/cycling
If you’re a serious rambler or just like to stretch your legs and enjoy
the view, then Co. Carlow is a brilliant destination to explore on foot.
Visitors will be spoiled by the diverse array of options on offer from
forest parks to the Blackstairs Mountains and a towpath along Ireland’s
second longest river, the Barrow.
the barrow way
The Barrow Way follows the towpath, originally a path alongside the
River Barrow where horses pulled barges and goods for transport.
Nowadays, visitors can enjoy excellent flat walking, passing good land
where tillage and cattle farming is predominant. The path offers much
of architectural interest to the visitor – bridges, many arched, and pretty
lock houses, some still in use. The full length of the Barrow Way from
Lowtown to St. Mullins is 113 kilometres. Accommodation is available
at regular intervals and varies from hotels to self-catering and B&B.
STAGE 1 of the Barrow Way starts in Lowtown, Co. Kildare and a
distance of 23km takes you to the town of Monasterevin. The raised
banks of the canal offer beautiful vistas of the surrounding countryside
with views of the Hill of Allen and the Wicklow Mountains.
STAGE 2 covers the stretch from Monasterevin to Athy – 23km.
This stretch offers the visitor much of historical and architectural
interest with many old bridges and houses.
STAGE 3 runs from Athy to Carlow – 19km. This is the first of four
stretches which pass through the county of Carlow. Starting from the
heritage town of Athy, the route passes many interesting lifting bridges
and old mills before reaching Carlow Town.
STAGE 4 Carlow to Bagenalstown – 16km. Milford, approximately
7km south of Carlow is one of the most attractive stretches along
the River Barrow. Set in an idyllic location with three bridges, mill
buildings and a large wooded area, it is famous as an aquatic triangle
with regular spottings of herons and kingfishers. This stretch of walk
is rich with historical buildings and castles including the Black Castle
at Leighlinbridge and the many architectural and industrial gems in the
town of Bagenalstown, where this section of the walk ends.
STAGE 5 takes the walker from Bagenalstown to Graiguenamanagh
– 26km. This route passes the pretty villages of Goresbridge and Borris
before ending in Graiguenamanagh, a picturesque abbey town and a
popular boating centre. Overlooking the River Barrow is Duiske Abbey
founded by Norman monks from Stanley Abbey, Wiltshire in 1204.
STAGE 6 Graiguenamanagh to St. Mullins – 6km. This stretch has
beautiful woodland surroundings with a strong ecclesiastical theme in
the religious settlement at St. Mullins. The lower settlement is set on a
glorious stretch of the Barrow Valley and includes a picnic area.
APP AND AUDIO GUIDE BARROW WAY
new Discover the delightful Barrow Way, its historic villages, rich
2014 heritage and wildlife, with this app and free audio guide.
The guide is ideal for anyone walking, cycling or boating the
Barrow navigation and canal. The audio guide has 35 audio tracks,
packed with stories and information, one for each stop every 3-5km.
The full-featured app version is richly illustrated, and comes with a
geo-located map, extra information and links and costs €2.69. It works
offline, with no roaming charges. To download a free MP3 version visit
www.ingeniousireland.ie/barrowriver/
the south leinster way
The South Leinster Way is a long distance walking route which
runs from Kildavin, in the east of Co. Carlow to Carrick-on-Suir
in Co. Tipperary covering 102 kilometres in length.
The predominant features in the landscape are Mount Leinster,
Brandon Hill and the river valleys of the Barrow, Nore and Suir. This
stretch can be comfortably walked in five days but strong walkers can
finish it in three days.
The Barrow Way long distance walking route.
Credit Waterways Ireland.
STAGE 1: Kildavin – Borris 22km. From Kildavin the route passes
along forest tracks over the northern slopes of Mount Leinster to
reach the town of Borris. The “Nine Stones” vantage point at Mount
Leinster offers amazing views of the Barrow Valley and Brandon Hill.
At 795 metres Mount Leinster is the highest point in the Blackstairs
Mountains.
19
walking/cycling
STAGE 2: Borris – Graiguenamanagh 12km. This stretch joins the
towpath along the River Barrow and is particularly attractive as it
passes through rich, deciduous woodland and old mills. Clashganny
Lock, 5km south of Borris is one of Carlow’s and Ireland’s most
famous landmarks.
STAGE 3: Graiguenamanagh – Inistioge 16km. This walk crosses the
slopes of Mount Brandon by a series of forest walks before reaching the
pretty village of Inistioge.
STAGE 4: Inistioge – Mullinavat 30km. Starts along the River Nore
and continues via forest roads over several hills to reach Mullinavat.
STAGE 5: Mullinavat – Carrick-on-Suir 22km. is stretch crosses
the River Blackwater and passes the village of Piltown en-route to the
end of the walk in Carrick-on-Suir.
blackstairs eco trails wild things in carlow
Blackstairs Eco Trails run eco trails and guided hikes, foraging hen parties,
foraging workshops and wild herbal workshops.
They also organise Wild Mushroom Hunts, school
tours and visits and offer team building in the wild
for companies who want a great day out in the wild.
Learn about our native trees, birds and mammals
of the Mount Leinster and River Barrow area and
enjoy a truly unique, rural experience. Blackstairs Eco Trails also offers
active retirement groups a great day out and geographical investigations for
Leaving Certificate pupils as well as primary school workshops. Mary White
has recently been appointed a Heritage Expert by the Heritage Council.
Schools can avail of special rates through the Council for a school visit or
contact Mary directly. GPS: 52.612596, -6.854979
new The Foraging Hen –
2014 a hen party with style
Killedmond, Borris, Co. Carlow
t: 059–9773184/087–2707189
w: www.blackstairsecotrails.ie for workshop details
Every Mon., Wed. and Sat. 12 – 4 p.m. Rate €35 per person
– inc. tea and coffee to start with, a beautiful 2 hour walk followed by
delicious homemade afternoon tea and identification of specimens.
Special group rates available. Follow us on twitter @whiteecotrails
oak park forest park
GPS: 52.864166, -6.894982
Situated on the outskirts of Carlow
Town, Oak Park Forest Park is an oasis
of tranquillity and a popular destination
for walkers and joggers. The park is
a mature, mixed species woodland of
over 120 acres with a predominance
of beech, oak, scots pine, silver fir,
larch and sycamore. Extending over 4
kilometres the walks include Butlers
Wood Loop (700 metres), the Lake Path
(800 metres), Fox Covert Track (1,100 metres) and Sally Island Trail
(1,700 metres). All the walks are wheelchair accessible while a range of
visitor facilities include ample car parking, picnic tables, public toilets,
outdoor exercise equipment and a universally accessible playground.
kilbrannish forest
GPS: 52.658327, -6.757656
Kilbrannish Forest Recreation
Area on the Blackstairs Mountains
features two signposted trails
- the Windfarm Loop is 3km in
length with a good surface and
uphill sections and is suitable
for families with young children.
The Kilbrannish Forest Loop
View from Kilbrannish to Mount
is 5 kilometres in length, taking
Leinster, Blackstairs Mountains
approx. 2 hours to complete. The
route offers wonderful views of the
surrounding countryside – walkers following the Kilbrannish Forest
Loop will be rewarded with particularly fine vistas from the summit
of Croaghaun (455 metres) northwards over the plains of Carlow
with the village and town of Myshall and Tullow spread out below.
A large car park and picnic facilities are available to visitors.
clogrennane wood GPS: 52.795113, -6.991109
the wicklow way
The Wicklow Way covers a distance of 127km in length commencing
in Marley Park, Dublin and finishing in the beautiful village of
Clonegal located in the River Slaney Valley in the east of the
county. A combination of suburban parkland, forest trails, wild and
scenic mountain landscape and finally, rolling countryside offers a
wonderfully varied, eight to ten day experience. W: www.irishtrails.ie
walking clubs
Tullow Mountaineering Club organise graded mountain walks
every Sunday from Barrack Street, Carlow Town (opposite Deane’s
newsagents). Cars depart at 9.30 a.m. sharp with walks graded easy,
medium and hard. Walks are not always in the local Blackstairs
Mountains. Easy walks are arranged for the first Sunday of every
month and are suitable for beginners. Evening walks Wed. and Fri.
Extra walks are organised from time to time. Bring along wind-proof
and waterproof clothing, walking boots and a ruck-sack with lunch
and extra clothing for when the walk is finished. Confirm in advance
by visiting the website w: www.tullowmountaineeringclub.ie
The Blackstairs Ramblers are a group of hill walkers who as their
name suggests, enjoy rambling on the Blackstairs Mountains. They
walk on the second and fourth Sunday of every month. Two club
walks also take place on Thursday night accommodating different
levels of fitness.
See www.blackstairsramblers.com for a full walk schedule.
20
Carlow has a selection of great looped walks at Oak Park Forest
Park and Clogrennane Wood, both close to Carlow Town, and
Kilbrannish Forest Recreation Area on the Blackstairs Mountains.
Clogrennane Wood near Carlow Town offers the user a gentle
sloping 4km walk on forest roads with magnificent views of
Carlow Town and the River Barrow on a clear
day. The area is an old wood and has had
forestry cover present since the 1800s. The
predominant tree species in Clogrennane are
beech, spruce, larch and oak with vegetation
consistent with that of an old woodland
– bluebells, ferns, wild garlic and herb rocket.
national cycle network
Carlow/Kilkenny Local Authorities under the National Cycle
Network (NCN) programme has provided a dedicated on road
cycle route of 35km between Carlow and Kilkenny. The route
is located on the R448/R712 (the old N9/N10). The route
starts/ends on the northern edge of Carlow Town which links
to the extensive network of cycling routes in Carlow Town itself.
The route continues to the southwest passing the R724 at Royal
Oak. This route links users to the Town of Muine Bheag and
Borris. At this point the cyclist leaves Co. Carlow and enters Co.
Kilkenny at Paulstown which features Shankill Castle and its
grounds. In Paulstown cyclists can veer off the route to Gowran
Village famous for its horse racing excellence or continue west
along the main cycling route to Kilkenny City. The route in one
direction takes about 1 1⁄2 – 2 1⁄2 hours for the average cyclist.
history of carlow
castles
field monuments
Ballymoon Castle, Bagenalstown
Just 3.5 km east of Bagenalstown this ruined castle dates to the
fourteenth century. The castle – as striking as it is unusual – comprises
a courtyard about 80 feet square, surrounded by granite walls, 8 feet
thick and 20 feet high. Square towers project from three sides while a
formidable gatehouse is the feature of the fourth. The castle was most
probably built by Roger Bigod or by a member of the Carew family.
Access direct from the R724 Bagenalstown – Fenagh Road via a small
timber footbridge. GPS: 52.699299, -6.908788
Ballyloughan Castle, Bagenalstown
This castle was probably built in the thirteenth century and consisted
of a large open courtyard with a curtain wall and a moat outside.
Only a small square tower remains, as well as the entrance gate which
is flanked by two large rounded towers. The castle originally belonged
to the Kavanaghs before passing into the hands of the Bagenal family
of nearby Bagenalstown and following this the Bruen family in the
early nineteenth century. Access direct, on private land.
GPS: 52.672369, -6.895604
Black Castle, Leighlinbridge
The village of Leighlinbridge developed at this strategic crossing on
the River Barrow, defended by the Black Castle. In 1181, the Norman,
Hugh de Lacy built the first castle here to defend the crossing while
the present castle is reported to have been built by Sir Edward
Bellingham in 1547. The site was long held by the Kavanaghs and the
Butlers and was also occupied by Sir Peter Carew and the Bagenals.
Access direct from the river towpath. GPS: 52.736224, -6.977897
Carlow Castle, Carlow Town. See page 25 for details.
Clonmore Castle, Clonmore
Clonmore Castle is square in plan and features rectangular towers
at two corners with small turrets at the remaining corners. History
indicates that it was probably built towards the latter end of the
thirteenth century. With remains of the main interior buildings to be
seen, this castle is well worth a visit. GPS: 52.82787, -6.574818
Duckett’s Grove, near Carlow Town. See page 34 for details.
Huntington Castle, Clonegal, Co. Carlow.
See page 35 for details.
TRACING YOUR ANCESTORS
e Local Studies and
Genealogical Section at
Carlow County Library is a
reference and research service
dedicated to preserving
the collective memory of
Co. Carlow. Genealogical
sources available include:
Indexes to Parish Baptisms
and Marriages for Roman Catholic parishes in Co. Carlow, Griffith’s
Valuation 1853/54, Tithe Applotment Records circa 1826.
Researchers can direct their queries online, by telephone or in person.
t: 059–9129705 e: [email protected] or see www.carlowlibraries.ie
GPS: 52.836153, -6.928075
e Civil Registration Service (births, deaths and marriages) for County
Carlow is located on the St. Dympna’s Hospital campus on the Athy
Road, Carlow T: 059–9136542. Birth, death and marriage records for
County Carlow are held in local registers dating from 1864. Records for
the rest of the country are available from a computer data base in every
registration office countrywide as follows: births from 1864, deaths from
1924 and marriages from 1913. GPS: 52.84292, -6.929529
Brownshill Dolmen, near Carlow Town
One very unmistakeable
monument dating back to
pre-historical times is the great
dolmen at Brownshill to the
east of Carlow Town. The
dolmen has a granite capstone
weighing over 100 tonnes,
making it the largest of its
kind in Europe. The massive
capstone rests on two portal
stones which flank a door stone
and slopes downwards to the
west where it rests on a low boulder. This magnificent capstone has
excited the interest of many antiquarians and tourists down through
the years and it is thought that religious rites, possibly even human
sacrifice, were performed there for four and a half thousand years (2500
B.C.). Signposted, direct access – 5km from Carlow Town on the R726
Hacketstown Road. GPS: 52.837685, -6.876287
Cloch-a-Phoill, Ardristan, Tullow, Co. Carlow
South of Tullow in Ardristan lies a large, holed stone of great
antiquity which may have once been part of a megalithic tomb. For
over 2,000 years it was believed that sick infants if passed through the
six inch hole would be restored to health. Access off the N81 Tullow/
Bunclody Road approximately 5km from Tullow (well signposted).
GPS: 52.770058, -6.747308
Triple Bullaun Stone, Clonmore
Situated on the approach to Clonmore Village in the north-eastern
corner of Co. Carlow is the triple bullaun stone, a large natural stone
in situ with three hollows scooped out. It was used for pounding
ingredients in pre-historic times as a mortar and pestle might be
used today. GPS: 52.827561, -6.570742
Haroldstown Dolmen, Tullow,
Co. Carlow
A well preserved example of a portal
dolmen consisting of two slightly tilted
capstones supported by ten vertical stones,
two of which acted as the door to the tomb.
Near Tullow off the R727 – access direct,
on private land. GPS: 52.845531, -6.664073
Rathgall Stone Fort, Tullow
An extensive hillside fortification
with eighth century outer walls
and later medieval inner walls.
Evidence from excavations carried
out at Rathgall suggests that hill
forts were constructed from the
late Bronze Age (800 B.C.) into
the Iron Age and continued to be
Rathgall Stone Fort, Tullow
used into post medieval times. On
excavation in 1969 Rathgall turned
out to be the first Later Bronze Age Workshop located in Ireland
and more than 400 clay moulds were also found there. Evidence of a
house was discovered in the inner stone circle with the second and third
ramparts forming the main defensive walls. Extensive metal workshop
areas were uncovered in the inner and outer circles for casting large
quantities of bronze weapons and tools. Other finds included glass,
bronze and stone objects, clay moulds, gold and glass beads and other
artefacts. Excavations revealed that an important wealthy family or
small community lived on the hilltop. Situated 5km from Tullow off the
R725 Shillelagh Road – access direct. GPS: 52.803797, -6.663319
21
county map
Burtown House Gardens
CARLOW TOWN ATTRACTIONS
• VISUAL and George Bernard Shaw Theatre
• Carlow County Museum
• Carlow Tourist Office
• Carlow Town Park
• The Barrow Way
• Carlow Farmers’ Market
• Delta Sensory Gardens and Garden Centre
• The Ivy Rooms
• Rancho Reilly Pet Farm and Childrens’
Activity Centre
• Oak Park Forest Park
• Quinagh House Par 3
• Walking Heritage Trail Carlow Town
• Carlow Arts Festival Éigse (6th - 15th June)
• Carlow Golf Club
• Morgan’s Garden Centre
• Gilberts Orchards and Farm Shop
• Carlow Golf Practice and Teaching Academy
• Wildways Adventures
Rathoe
Aghade
Arboretum Home & Garden Heaven
Arboretum Inspirational Gardens
Newtown
& The Watch
& Carrigduff
Ballinkillen
Newtownbarry
House and
Gardens
Borris House
Waterside Bike Hire & Tours
Bike Hire
22
advertisements
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Carlo
Carlow County
Museum &
Tourist Info.
Castle
Historic Building
Hotel
Post Office
Car Park
Tourist Information Office
town map and environs
27
golf
golf
golf clubs
Regardless of skills or ability, the visitor to Carlow will find an
impressive variety of golfing facilities to suit all levels. e novice is
also well catered for with pitch and putt, par 3s and a driving range.
All of the courses listed here aim to provide the golfer – whether
beginner or advanced - with an unforgettable experience and a warm,
friendly welcome. For non-golfing partners and families, there is a
treasure trove of places to visit and things to do, which are listed in
this guide.
Carlow Golf Club, Deerpark, Dublin Road, Carlow
w: www.carlowgolfclub.com
DEERPARK COURSE: Carlow Golf Club is an inland links, laid
out in a former wild deer park over undulating terrain with numerous
elevated tees, several excellent dog-legs and small slick putting surfaces.
Extensive, mature woods are a strong feature in a pleasant countryside
setting where the unusually sandy soil has the bonus of allowing year
round play. e course is rated amongst the top 20 Championship
Courses in Ireland. ere are many long par 4s and the 16th, a very
demanding two shotter played through a tunnel-like valley, has been
chosen by Christy O’Connor Snr. as the foremost 16th hole in Ireland.
e par 5, 18th offers the chance of a closing birdie and a grandstand
finish as it tumbles downhill all the way back to the clubhouse. A
good ending to a memorable round.
OAKPARK COURSE: e 9 Hole Par 35, Oakpark course, owned
by Carlow Golf Club, was designed by renowned architect Jeff
Howes and is a truly terrific layout. Situated on rolling terrain, it
provides a superb challenge to golfers of all standards. Similar to the
Championship Deerpark course, the emphasis is on accurate iron play
and a delicate short game!
TYPE OF COURSE: Deerpark Course: 18 hole parkland – 6,653
yards (6,049 metres) – par 70.
Oak Park course: 9 hole parkland – 3,197 yards (2,923 metres) – par 35.
OPENING HOURS: Daylight hours. e Clubhouse Bar is open
every day from 10 a.m. – 10.30 p.m. A fully serviced restaurant offers a
choice of breakfast, lunch and dinner menus and is open from 9.30
a.m. – 10 p.m. daily.
GREEN FEES: Monday to ursday from €35, Friday from €40,
Saturday from €50. Group rates available. Book online at
[email protected], www.carlowgolfclub.com or contact
the club office to make a booking t: 059-9131695.
LESSONS: By private arrangement with P.G.A. professional
Andrew Gilbert. GPS: 52.853149, -6.894929
HIRE SERVICES: Clubs, caddy car and buggy hire.
CARLOW OPEN WEEK: Monday June 2nd – Saturday June 7th.
One of the most enjoyable things about the start of summer is Carlow
Golf Club Open Week which features plenty of prizes, team spirit and
a friendly welcome.
28
Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort
Tullow, Co. Carlow
t: 059–9180161
f: www.facebook.com/mountwolseley
twitter: @mountwolseley
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Situated 12 km east of Carlow Town, Mount
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Wolseley is set in opulent surroundings and
boasts an 18-hole championship golf course.
According to Christy O’Connor Junior, course
designer, “Rarely after a first look around a
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potential site for a golf course had I been so
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impressed as at Mount Wolseley. What we have
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here is a fair but testing 18 holes of championship
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golf, none of which will disappoint even the most
discerning player”. is par 72-course provides
a challenge to every ability as each hole presents demanding approach
shots, with wide landing areas being the only concession. With its
broad fairways, unforgiving rough and picturesque water hazards,
Mount Wolseley has justifiably played host to a number of national
and international golf competitions.
e Mount Wolseley Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort is located on the
grounds of the eighteenth century ancestral home of Frederick York
Wolseley, whose family became synonymous with the automotive
industry. is charming resort offers an eclectic blend of contemporary
design and lavish detail surrounded by 200 acres of peaceful
landscape. Featuring 143 bedrooms including four suites and eight
executive rooms, each with individually controlled air conditioning
and interactive IT facilities with broadband access. Facilities include:
Frederick’s award-winning fine dining restaurant – voted “Best Hotel
Restaurant in Carlow” and recipient of a 1AA Rosette. e Aaron
Lounge and the Morrissey Bar provide the ideal spot for relaxation
and informal dining. Leisure and relaxation facilities are also provided
at the Sanctuary Spa, Carlow’s only resort spa which features 14
treatment rooms using Elemis and algo products, relaxation pool,
dry floatation, experience showers and balneotherapy. e resort also
boasts 50 holiday lodges, tennis courts, childrens’ playground, childrens’
activity club, games room, teen zone and a soft play area. During
childrens’ holidays a full programme of activities is provided.
TYPE OF COURSE: 18 hole championship Christy O’Connor Jnr
parkland – 7,172 yards (6,558 metres) – par 72.
OPENING HOURS: Daylight hours. e clubhouse (seasonal) is
open from 10.30 a.m. – approx. 6.30 – 7 p.m. daily for light snacks,
lunches and full dinners. e Aaron Lounge and Frederick’s Fine
Dining Restaurant also offer excellent dining options. Equally a
number of private dining areas suitable for groups are available.
GREEN FEES: From €35 – €50. Group rates also available. Contact
sales for further details t: 059–9180161 or e: [email protected]
HIRE SERVICES: Clubs, trolley and buggy hire available at an
additional cost. GPS: 52.794127, -6.726721
OPEN COMPETITIONS: Open seniors competition on the
third Tuesday of the month. Full schedule of open days on
www.mountwolseley.ie/open-days.html
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golf
golf
17th hole in Killerig Golf Club
Killerig Golf Club, Killerig, Co. Carlow
t: 059–9163000
w: www.killerig-golf.ie
“Killerig is enjoyable for the Club golfer, and when required capable of
challenging the best” – Des Smyth
Located just outside Carlow Town in a fabulous setting with the
Wicklow Mountains to the east and the Killeshin Hills to the west.
Imaginatively designed by Des Smyth and Declan Brannigan, this par
72 championship course strives to create the most unique, exciting and
challenging golf experience with meticulously groomed fairways and
greens. e course, which is playable year round provides a challenging
game of golf, with water in play on six of its 18 U.S.G.A. specification
greens. A range of tees ensure that everyone from the big hitter to the
more conservative, casual player is well catered for. e warm welcome
extended and the air of relaxation sets the tone for a most enjoyable
golf experience. e clubhouse boasts a fully stocked pro shop,
conference facilities and Brannigans Bar and Restaurant where visitors
can enjoy an extensive menu throughout the day and spectacular views
of the course and surrounding countryside.
TYPE OF COURSE: 18 hole championship parkland – 6,742 yards
(6,165 metres) – Par 72.
OPENING HOURS: Daylight hours. Full bar facilities, open Monday
– Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. – close. Bar menu.
GREEN FEES: Individual Monday – Friday: €15 or €10 with a
member. Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays: €25. Monday –
Friday 9 hole rate: €10. Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays: €15.
HIRE SERVICES: Clubs, caddy cars and buggy hire.
GPS: 52.839267, -6.785276
Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club,
Carrigduff, Bunclody, Co. Wexford.
w: www.bunclodygfc.ie
Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club is situated in 300 acres of
breathtaking parklands on the Carlow Wexford border. Newly opened
in March 2009 it is already ranked in the top 30 parkland courses in
Ireland. e Jeff Howes designed Championship course runs over
7,000 yards on the banks of the River Slaney and has a diversity of
golf holes, rarely seen on one golf course. Ranked 25th in Golf Digest’s
top parkland courses and featured in the top fourteen golf courses to
visit in Ireland in 2014 according to the Irish Independent. Europe’s
ONLY golf course with an elevator taking you from the 17th hole
up five floors to the 18th tee box giving a bird’s eye view over the
River Slaney. Ranked amongst Ireland’s elite top 20 parkland courses
– Backspin magazine. e bar and restaurant offer a warm welcome
and tempting menu with panoramic views of the surrounding
countryside and of Mount Leinster. e Club is open to visitors and
societies every day.
OPEN COMPETITIONS: Ladies and Gents Open Singles are held
every Wednesday and regular open events are held throughout the
year. A full fixture list is available on the upcoming events tab on the
Bunclody Golf and Fishing Club website.
TYPE OF COURSE: 18 hole championship parkland. 7,164 yards
(6,617 metres) – par 72.
OPENING HOURS: Daylight hours. Luxury five star thatched
clubhouse open daily.
GREEN FEES: From €25 (early bird and winter special) – €55 Sat.
HIRE SERVICES: Trolleys, electric caddy cars and buggies.
PRO SHOP: Full range of golf equipment, manufactured by leading
companies – Titleist, Taylormade, Ping, Galvin Green and many more.
Pro Shop Manager Caroline Dunne.
GOLF ACADEMY WITH FLOODLIT DRIVING RANGE: Fully
floodlit golf range, 10 indoor bays, outdoor grass tees, putting green
and chipping greens. Golf tuition seven days per week with P.G.A.
professional Gary McLean.
FUNCTION ROOM AVAILABLE for weddings/confirmations/
communions. Bar and restaurant with panoramic views of the
surrounding countryside. GPS: 52.655983, -6.654893
Carrigleade Golf Club,
Carrigleade Cross, St. Mullins, Co. Carlow
t: 059–9724370 m: 087–2569012 or 087–6290713
e: [email protected] w: www.carrigleadegolf.ie
Carrigleade Golf Course is situated in south Co. Carlow on the
Barrow Drive between medieval Graiguenamanagh and historic St.
Mullins. Carrigleade is a challenging and varied course while golfers
will also appreciate the picturesque and enjoyable walk. Surrounded
by fantastic vistas of the Blackstairs Mountains to the east and
Mount Brandon to the west, this golf course has justifiably earned
its reputation as a wonderful golfing escape. e aesthetics of the
stone walls, flora and fauna further enhance the enjoyment of a
golfing round here. Playable all year round, the course is meticulously
maintained to the very highest standards. Located 10km from New
Ross, 6km from Borris and 2km from Graiguenamanagh and St.
Mullins. e course caters for golf classics, groups and societies.
TYPE OF COURSE: 18 hole parkland, 3,338 yards (3,052 metres)
OPENING HOURS: Daylight hours, year round. Refreshments
available.
GREEN FEES: Adults €10 midweek, €12 weekend. Children under
12: €7 all week. LESSONS: Available upon request.
HIRE SERVICES: Clubs, buggy and trolley hire.
GPS: 52.519363, -6.924872
29
golf
golf
Park Par 3,
Tankardstown, Tullow, Co. Carlow
t: 059–9151329/087–2699723
w: www.parkpar3.com
Splendid views surround this course with
the Wicklow Mountains as a backdrop and
Mount Leinster to the west. is Par 3
course consists of 18 holes with distances
varying from 114 to 228 yards from tee to
pin. Several magnificent mature trees line
the course. e course features two large
lakes, the first takes in the 3rd, 8th and 10th holes and the other lake
must be crossed to reach the 14th and 15th holes. If this is not enough
to deal with, plenty of sand traps have to be negotiated, providing a very
challenging golfing experience. A family-run course open seven days per
week, welcoming all players from the very young to the experienced.
Available for golf classic and society bookings.
TYPE OF COURSE: 18 hole par 3.
OPENING HOURS: Daylight hours, year round.
GREEN FEES: Adults €10 daily Monday to Sunday, Senior Citizens
and under 18s €8 daily. LESSONS: Available upon request.
HIRE SERVICES: Clubs and trolley hire.
GPS: 52.823143, -6.696844
Bagenalstown Pitch and Putt
McGrath Park, Dunleckney, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow
t: Patrick Robinson 085–7383559
Bagenalstown Pitch and Putt
is considered to be one of the
best in the country in terms of
design and level of maintenance.
It is an undulating course with
a great variety of holes from
long to short, which will test the
skills of even the best players.
Holes 4 and 8 are particularly
attractive with their elevated tee
boxes. Holes 11 and 15 will bring the best out of the long hitters. e
greens are generous and in top condition due to the dedicated work
of the members, so birdies can be in good supply. e club is situated
in a unique and pleasant setting with views of Mount Leinster and
Leighlin Hills.
TYPE OF COURSE: 18 hole pitch and putt, 941 yards (860 metres).
OPENING HOURS: Daylight hours, daily.
GREEN FEES: From €5.
HIRE SERVICES: Clubs available by prior request.
GPS: 52.707466, -6.952764
Carlow Golf Practice and Teaching Academy,
Quinagh House Par 3,
Crossneen, Carlow m: 087–2318304
Quinagh House, Carlow
t: 059–9142088
Carlow Golf Practice and Teaching Academy caters for all standards
Quinagh House Par 3 is set
of golfers. Set at the foot of the Killeshin Hills, the Golf Academy
in 42 acres on the outskirts of
offers a peaceful and beautiful setting in which to enjoy first class
Carlow Town, surrounded by
facilities:
mature trees with extensive views
of the Killeshin Hills. A very
30 bay floodlit golf
well maintained golf course, it is
range
a perfect place to relax or enjoy
Outside grass hitting
a friendly competition with
area
18 exceptional holes ranging from 130 – 220 yards in length. Well
Short game area
positioned trees throughout the course and water hazards serve as
Indoor teaching bay
challenging obstacles, while also enhancing the quality of this spacious
course. A perfect course for both beginners and experienced players.
Fully Qualified P.G.A.
Refreshments and light snacks available in the club house.
Professional Ian Kerr offers a full range of golf lessons from complete
TYPE OF COURSE: 18 hole par 3.
beginners to advance golfers.
OPENING HOURS: Daylight hours, year round.
Tuition available at Carlow Golf Practice and Teaching Academy:
GREEN FEES: Adults €10, Senior Citizens €7, Students €8, Juveniles €7. Individual lessons
Ladies group lessons
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HIRE SERVICES: No charge for hiring clubs, trolleys €2.
Mens group lessons Junior group lessons
GPS: 52.83233, -6.956636
GPS: 52.816485, -6.93832
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golf classic details
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The wHole in One Package! l Early booking rate of €149 p.p.
applies up to May 31st. Rate of
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€169 p.p. applies thereafter.
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l Great accommodation packages
on offer from €37.50 p.p.s. B&B
(Mount Wolseley Hotel) to €225
– three nights self-catering break.
l For further details and a list of
competition rules t: 059 – 9130411
or visit www.carlowtourism.com/
golfclassic
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www.carlowtourism.com/golfclassic
30
outdoor activities
canoeing
Go-With-The-Flow River Adventures
t: 087–2529700
w: www.gowiththeflow.ie
Clashganny on River Barrow GPS: 52.559831, -6.91537
Stags and hens need look no further if it’s adventure and fun you want for
your great day out. Go-With-e-Flow are a favourite with those seeking
spills and thrills in an action packed event. Our qualified guides will see
you through all the whitewater, over all the weirs and waterfalls and down
the rapids of the River Barrow. No experience necessary, all you need is a
bunch of friends and time to chill. Tailored family learning days, corporate
and social club days and individual canoe hire also available.
horse riding
Carrigbeg Riding Stables
Carrigbeg,
Bagenalstown,
Co. Carlow
t: 059–9721962
Contact: Susan Patterson BHSII
GPS: 52.691203, -6.900377
Riding lessons available for children and adults from beginners to
competition level. Features indoor and outdoor arena and cross country
course. Cross country jumping for experienced riders. No trekking.
Advance booking essential.
HOW TO FIND US: L7004, 800 metres off the R724 Bagenalstown–
Myshall Road. OPEN: 02.01.14 – 23.12.14. Closed Sundays, Bank
Holiday Mondays and August Bank Holiday week.
RATES PER HOUR: children (over 6 and under 16 years of age) €22.
Adults €25. Groups of six or more: reduction available.
bike rental and bike tours
Waterside Bike and Hike
Waterside Guesthouse,
Graiguenamanagh,
Co. Kilkenny
t: 086–4084008
w: bike&[email protected]
GPS: 52.540231, -6.953942
Waterside Bike and Hike offers bike rental and bike tours in
Graiguenamanagh and Tinnahinch in the beautiful Barrow River Valley.
Perfect for groups, families or couples to explore the river towpath and
discover wildlife, scenery and peace, hidden away along a traffic free
greenway. Waterside Bike and Hike basecamp is located at the famous
Waterside Guesthouse and provides a cosy room with a river view as well
as a superb dining experience in the ground floor restaurant. e towpath
stretches for miles in either direction, drop-off and pick-up service available.
HOW TO FIND US: In the town of Graiguenamanagh. OPENING
TIMES: Year round. RATES: Adults €15 per day, children €10 per day
with adults bike or €15 per day otherwise. 20% discount rate for guests of
Waterside Guesthouse.
nature trails, wildlife workshops and themed treasure hunts
Wildways Adventures
Enterprise House,
O’Brien Road, Carlow
m: 087–4125649
w: www.wildwaysadventures.ie
f: www.facebook.com/wildways
adventures
Come Explore the Real World with Wildways Adventures who run outdoor
nature trails, treasure hunts and themed events, suitable for the whole family
to enjoy together on selected weekends and school holidays throughout the
year. ey also arrange activities for schools, youth and community groups,
family parties and tourism businesses. Currently running programmes from
Oak Park Forest Park and Duckett’s Grove Historic House and Walled
Gardens, but activities can be arranged in other locations.
OPENING TIMES: Times and dates of events vary throughout the year. See
our website for details. RATES: From €10 per family depending on activity.
paintballing
Special Ops Paintball
Ballymurphy,
Borris,
Co. Carlow
t: 085–7752495
w: www.specialops.ie
GPS: 52.569729, -6.892497
Special Ops Paintball is the perfect place for an action-packed day out
for any group and occasion. With a semi-automatic paintball gun and
full safety equipment, you’ll be shooting your friends in no time on our
military-themed game zones, complete with buildings and vehicles!
With over 15 years running paintball games, friendly and professional
staff will ensure a great day out. Advance booking essential.
HOW TO FIND US: 5km south of Borris off the R729 Borris – New
Ross Road. OPEN: 7 days per week – year round.
RATES: €35 – 400 paintballs, paintball gun and full equipment rental.
Junior (aged 14+), college, school and corporate paintball rates available.
swimming pool
Bagenalstown Swimming Pool,
Leighlinbridge Road,
Bagenalstown,
Co. Carlow
t: 086–3059356
f: Bagenalstown Swimming Club
GPS: 52.71091, -6.954722
Bagenalstown Swimming Pool is an excellent attraction for families and
children from early June until late August. It includes a heated, outdoor
25m pool and paddling pool. e club also offers swimming lessons,
summer camps and water safety lessons throughout the season along with
many other events such as river races, swimming galas, fun days and a
water safety festival. Seasonal membership available as well as casual rates.
OPENING TIMES: 11 a.m. – 12.30 p.m., 2.30 – 5 p.m. and 7 – 9 p.m.
31
gardens
garden trail
the carlow garden trail
Carlow is a treasure trove of wonderful gardens to visit. e Carlow
Garden Trail is a collection of sixteen gardening attractions, with an
additional two gardens in the surrounding counties of Kildare and
Wexford. e trail features great old gardens that have been lovingly
restored and maintained throughout the years and smaller gardens which
are maturing beautifully with time. Award-winning garden centres and
forest parks complement the joy of a visit here. e trail can be driven in
a day if so desired but naturally we encourage you to relax, overnight and
enjoy the remarkable beauty of these gardens, garden centres and forest
parks at a more leisurely pace. W: www.carlowgardentrail.com
tips for driving the carlow garden trail
• e trail can be joined at any gardening
attraction and driven in either direction
by following the identifiable finger
signposts.
• Large map boards are located in the
grounds of each participating centre
providing further information.
Altamont Gardens, Tullow, Co. Carlow t: 059–9159444
w: www.heritageireland.ie/www.carlowgardentrail.com
Widely respected as the jewel in Ireland’s gardening crown, Altamont
Gardens are an enchanting blend of formal and informal gardens
with riverside walks covering over 40 acres (16 hectares). e estate
gains much of its character from the many mature trees, natives in
the avenues and woodland areas, and exotic specimens throughout
the gardens. Lawns bisected by sculpted yews, slope down to a lake
surrounded by rare trees and rhododendrons and lead in turn to a
very different garden featuring exotic shrubs and trees. A fascinating
walk through the Arboretum, Bog Garden and Ice Age Glen with its
canopy of ancient oaks and huge stone outcrops leads the visitor to the
River Slaney. When Corona North, who lovingly cared for the gardens
for over 50 years died in 1999, the gardens were left to the State at her
request. Ongoing restoration and maintenance continues under the
careful stewardship of the Office of Public Works (OPW).
“Every visitor says it has a special atmosphere, that’s why so many people
come back. Every element you want from a great garden is here, from
lovely lawns, floral beds and beautiful woodland going down to the river,
to a walled garden and really superb collections, such as the snowdrops,
rhododendrons and the fabulous oaks in the Arboretum” – Paul Cutler,
Head Gardener at Altamont Gardens.
FACILITIES: Toilets, outdoor picnic tables, large car and coach park,
restricted wheelchair access.
32
HOW TO FIND US: From Dublin/Waterford exit the M9 at
junction 5 for N80 Rosslare. Continue along the N80 through the
village of Ballon and the N80/N81 junction. Turn left at the next
cross road junction signed Altamont Gardens. From Carlow Town
follow the N80 through Ballon and continue as above.
GPS: 52.735129, -6.720966
OPENING TIMES:
January 1st – 31st, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. 7 days per week.
February 1st – 28th, 9 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. 7 days per week.
March 1st – 31st, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 7 days per week.
April 1st – September 30th, 9 a.m. – 6.30 p.m. 7 days per week.
October 1st – 31st, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. 7 days per week.
November 1st – 30th, 9 a.m. – 4.30 p.m. 7 days per week.
December 1st – 31st, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. 7 days per week.
Closed Christmas Day and in adverse weather conditions.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Free individual admission. Guided
tours available for groups by prior appointment – adults €2.
Altamont Plant Sales,
The Walled Garden @ Altamont, Altamont Gardens,
w: www.carlowgardentrail.com
An unmissable highlight of a visit
to Altamont Gardens is the Walled
Garden situated within the grounds
of the estate and run privately
by gardener and nursery man
Robert Miller. e area consists
primarily of the Corona North
Commemorative Border planted
to honour the late Corona and
Altamont Plant Sales and Nursery. Each border has its own individual
theme and colour from striking reds to cool whites and blues, romantic
pinks and warm yellow glows. Altamont Plant Sales has not only grown
in size in the last few years, but more so in reputation as a place to
acquire seriously good garden plants. Always renowned for its extensive
range of herbaceous perennials, Altamont Plant Sales can also boast of
having one of the largest collections of old shrub roses available for sale
to the gardening public year round. Rare oaks, maples, cherry blossoms,
dogwoods, magnolias, beech and smaller flowering trees and shrubs
suitable for every-sized garden are also available throughout the year.
Robert Miller of Altamont Plant Sales is available for consultancy work
for new and mature gardens.
Walled Garden Café open May–September daily 10.30 a.m. –
new
5.30 p.m. February to May weekends only 10.30 a.m. – 5.30 p.m.
2014
HOW TO FIND US: In the grounds of Altamont Gardens – for
directions please see previous entry.
GPS: 52.735129, -6.720966
OPENING TIMES: Jan. 1st - Nov. 30th 10 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. weekdays,
11a.m. – 6 p.m. weekends. Rest of year 10 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. daily.
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gardens
garden trail
Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven
Kilkenny Road (R448), Leighlinbridge,
Co. Carlow t: 059–9721558
w: www.arboretum.ie
Commitment to excellent
customer service, quality
products, unbeatable choice
and value for money has
earned the Arboretum
Home and Garden Heaven
the coveted title of Bord Bia
Garden Centre of the Year
2013 along with achieving
the 5 Star Gold Medal
Award and Best Customer
Service Award.
Arboretum Home and
Garden Heaven is far
more than a place for the
gardening enthusiast.
It’s an entire shopping
experience: a place to savour
the perfect garden and
home experience. e spacious store is well laid out, the centre guides
visitors through elegant displays of garden furnishings, pot plants,
outdoor plants, an extensive gift area and homewares section, with
a newly opened kitchen store. An entire day can be devoted
new to the visit, wandering through the fantastic range of items
2014 available, seeking expert advice from friendly staff or enjoying
a delicious meal or cup of coffee in the tranquil setting of Rachel’s
Garden Café. e Arboretum experience has attracted other wellknown brands and offerings to the centre. Now open at Arboretum
are the Edinburgh Woollen Mill Clothing and Golf Company and
ISE Garden Machinery and Service Centre.
VISIT our online shop NOW! at www.arboretum.ie!
FACILITIES: Toilets, large car and coach park, wheelchair accessible,
café with wine licence and children’s play area, pet shop, retail park
with top retail brands including Edinburgh Woollen Mill.
HOW TO FIND US: From Dublin/Waterford take exit 6 on M9
motorway and follow signs for Leighlinbridge. Arboretum Home and
Garden Heaven is 3km from exit 6 located immediately off the R448
at Leighlinbridge. Alternatively visitors travelling directly from Carlow
Town may follow the R448.
GPS: 52.742832, -6.975890
OPENING TIMES: Monday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m., ursday 9
a.m. – 8 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Bank Holidays 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Arboretum Inspirational Gardens
Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven has created an exciting display
garden to inspire the modern day customer. Helping visitors to create
their own dreams while showing them that gardening is both stylish
and fun, this showpiece allows people to see that gardening can be
enjoyed in any busy lifestyle. e concept behind this design was to
create a garden that is easy to care for, demands low maintenance and
delivers endless enjoyment.
Designed to
inspire visitors on
planting schemes
and solutions,
the garden offers
endless ideas
that can be
easily recreated
in gardeners’
own homes.
e team at
Arboretum have
also included
a children’s
playground and
maze which is a
maximum height of 1 metre. is is located beside the new terraced
area of Rachel’s Garden Café so that children can play while parents
enjoy some home baking and locally sourced food. Families can also
pay a visit to the fun mud hut or visit the friendly koi who live in the
pond. A visit to the garden is a treat for the amateur or the enthusiast
who will enjoy seeing the themed planting, use of colour, texture and
form.
FACILITIES, DIRECTIONS and OPENING TIMES: As per
previous entry for Arboretum Home and Garden Heaven. Free
admission.
e team at Arboretum have developed a ‘Give it a Grow Garden’
which is designed to create a fully functional grow your own with
fruit, herbs, vegetables and chickens. e garden is designed to be
accessible and functional for wheelchairs and disability access. Tours of
the Arboretum Inspirational Gardens and the ‘Give it a Grow Garden’
can be booked on 059–9721558/9721503.
33
gardens
garden trail
Ashlawn Garden Centre,
Donore, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow t: 059–9721175
Situated close to the town
of Bagenalstown in an open
country setting, Ashlawn
Garden Centre is a familyrun business where excellent
service and advice is on hand
in a friendly and informative
manner. Our plants are our
pride and joy and there is
something for everyone
here, catering for the expert
gardener to the complete novice with specially selected ranges to suit
different needs and budgets. Ashlawn Garden Centre offers a wide range
of healthy trees, shrubs, roses and perennials at outstandingly good
value while the 3,000 square feet shop stocks a large selection of sprays,
sprayers, terracotta and glazed pots, tools, pet accessories, fountains,
lights and bird baths, seasonal bulbs and seeds.
FACILITIES: Toilets, car park, wheelchair accessible.
HOW TO FIND US: Situated 3 km outside Bagenalstown off the Borris
Road (R705). Take the first turn to the left after the railway bridge. e
centre is 2 km from this turn on the left hand side of the road.
GPS: 52.682814, -6.938924
OPENING TIMES: Monday – Saturday 9.30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sundays
and Bank Holidays 2 – 6 p.m.
Delta Sensory Gardens and Garden Centre,
Strawhall Estate, Carlow t: 059–9143527
e: [email protected] w: www.deltacentre.ie
Delta Centre was established in
1990 from humble beginnings
as an adult centre for people
with intellectual disabilities. e
centre is now a major employer
in Carlow Town and caters for
120 adults with disabilities. e
Sensory Gardens which were
officially opened in 2007 were the
first of their kind in Ireland. Set up as a therapeutic focus and benefit
for the centre’s own people with disabilities and local/national groups,
the gardens are now a major attraction in Carlow for local, national and
international visitors. ese beautiful gardens, covering 2.5 acres, have
come about with the help and dedication of well-renowned and award
winning designers, such as Gordon Ledbetter, Mary Reynolds, Rachel
Doyle, Elma Fenton and Paul Martin. e theme for each of the 20
gardens celebrates the use of natural elements such as stone, water and
wonderful foliage and plants. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to
rest and indulge their senses of touch, taste, smell, hearing and visual
delight. e feedback and comments from visitors speaks for itself:
‘An absolute delight to experience such variety, a thrill to the senses, peace,
tranquillity and inspiration’. ‘Delighted to see all the various elements of
nature made so accessible for people with disabilities of all types’. Delta Centre
and Gardens host many events during the year: www.deltacentre.ie
FACILITIES: Car park, toilets, wheelchair accessible, restaurant.
motorway and follow signs for Carlow Town. Strawhall Estate is
located off Cannery Road, the road which serves Dr. Cullen Park
G.A.A. Grounds on the outskirts of Carlow Town close to the Athy
Road roundabout. Follow brown tourist signs.
GPS: 52.844988, -6.924546
OPENING TIMES: Monday – Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., weekends and
Bank Holidays 11 a.m. – 5.30 p.m., closed weekends in January, February
and November (unless by prior arrangement).
ADMISSION CHARGES: Adults €5, concessions on admission,
children free accompanied by adult. Group rate available.
34
Duckett’s Grove Walled Gardens and Pleasure Grounds,
Kneestown, Co. Carlow
t: Carlow Tourist Office 059–9131554
e: [email protected] w: www.duckettsgrove.ie
Duckett’s Grove, the eighteenth, nineteenth and early twentieth century
home of the Duckett family, was formerly at the centre of a 20,000 acre
(8,093 hectares) estate that has dominated the Carlow landscape for over
300 years. Even in ruin, the surviving towers and turrets of Duckett’s
Grove form a romantic profile making it one of the most photogenic
historic buildings in the country. is part Cobden designed building is
structurally intact and accessible to the public. Its’ precincts have been the
subject of at least two international film sets and the site is a continuous
mecca for paranormal groups. e revival of two old walled gardens has
been completed by Carlow County Council, the old paths revealed and
the beds and borders reinstated. Stylistically the new planting schemes
echo the past yet reflect changing fashions, utilising plants and planting
patterns that may have evolved over time. Open daily, daylight hours.
Duckett’s Grove Design – Craft and Gift Emporium features a large
retail display area, selling locally produced craft and food products.
Open Friday 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., Sat and Sun 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. end of April
to December. t: 059–9163812 during opening times. Tea room serving
light snacks. Opening times facebook.com/thetearoomsatduckettsgrove
FACILITIES: Large car and coach park, toilets, wheelchair access.
HOW TO FIND US: From Dublin/Waterford take exit 4 off the
M9 motorway. Follow signs for Castledermot, then take the R418
Castledermot – Tullow Road for 6km and turn right at the signed
junction. From Carlow take the R726 Hacketstown Road for 10 km
to Killerig Cross Roads. Turn left at this junction onto the R418 for
2.5 km, turn left again at the signed junction.
OPENING TIMES: Gardens and ruined mansion daily, daylight hours.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Free. GPS: 52.858748, -6.812787
Hardymount Gardens,
One of the largest Spanish
chestnuts in the country greets
you on arrival to 3.5 acres (1.5
hectare) of lawns and shrubs
surrounded by magnificent
beech and oak trees. A wonderful
walled garden behind the house
contains many unusual plants
and flowers in the herbaceous
border. e grass paths take you
past the pond with lilies and fish to espaliered apple trees, an arbour
of old roses, a pergola clothed with wisteria and underplanted with
hollyhocks and foxgloves and on to a vegetable garden. A summer house
at the end of the garden in a sheltered corner provides a quiet area for
rest and relaxation.
FACILITIES: Wheelchair accessible.
HOW TO FIND US: From Dublin - through the town of Tullow onto
the Bunclody Road N81. Turn right after the Topaz petrol station,
on the outskirts of the town. Turn right at the next cross roads – the
gardens are 550 metres on the right hand side.
GPS: 52.798787, -6.762269
OPENING TIMES: Daily 2 – 6 p.m. May – August inclusive. Open
at other times by arrangement. Groups very welcome.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Adults €5.
gardens
garden trail
Herb Gardens at Kilgraney House,
Borris Road, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow
t: 059–9775283
Consisting of a series of
interconnecting herbal gardens
there is a large kitchen garden,
a tea walk, a medicinal herb
courtyard, a medieval monastic
herb garden and a garden of
aromatic and fragrant herbs.
e enclosed kitchen garden
consists of gravel paths and
eleven raised timber beds of
varying sizes grouped to form
a modern rectangular ‘’potager’’. Next to the kitchen garden is the
tea walk, a short gravel path lined on one side with plants suitable
for infusions and herbal teas. e medicinal garden, set in a granite
courtyard, consists of nine raised beds in Irish oak timber. In a lower
courtyard is an aromatic garden planted with herbs for fragrance and
also for their usefulness in cosmetic preparations. In an adjoining
courtyard there is a modern interpretation of a medieval monastic
herb garden with four oak raised beds surrounded on two sides by
an oak timber cloister. A circular cosmic garden helps to explain
and facilitate our understanding of the ancient belief that there is a
connection between people, plants, planets and constellations.
FACILITIES: Car park, toilets, art/craft gallery, restricted access for
wheelchairs.
HOW TO FIND US: Situated just off the R705 Bagenalstown –
Borris Road, the herb gardens are 6 km from Bagenalstown.
GPS: 52.653691, -6.954276
OPENING TIMES: April – September, ursday – Sunday and
Bank Holiday Mondays 2 – 5 p.m. Groups by appointment.
ADMISSION: €3. Tea or coffee available.
Huntington Castle and Gardens,
Clonegal, Co. Carlow t: 053–9377160
w: www.huntingtoncastle.com
ese gardens were mainly laid out in the
seventeenth century by the Esmondes who
built Huntington Castle in 1625. ey
include the French limes on the Avenue
which were planted in 1680 as well as the
“parterre” or formal lawns to the side of the
house. e earlier gardens also include the
fish ponds on either side of the centre walk
through the wilderness and the Yew Tree Walk. Larger plantings have
resulted in Huntington possessing a number of Irish Champion trees
including four varieties of hickory, a cut leaved oak, a Siberian crab and
buckeye chestnut. e ornamental lake at the bottom of the wilderness
provides a beautiful setting for a woodland walk. Visitors can see the
castle itself on the fascinating guided tour which will take them around
the inside of what is still a lived-in family home. e tour also includes
the world famous Temple of Isis in the basement and dungeons.
FACILITIES: Children’s adventure playground, coach and car park,
toilets, wheelchair access to gardens only, guided castle tours.
Refurbished tea room, gift shop, woodland walks and rose gardens.
HOW TO FIND US: Entrance gates in the village of Clonegal.
GPS: 52.690404, -6.649131
OPENING TIMES: May – September 2 – 6 p.m. daily. House 2 – 5
p.m. weekends in May and September and daily June – August. For
special events outside these times see website – Easter, Halloween and
Christmas at the Castle. Open at other times by arrangement.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Gardens: adults €5, U12 €2.50. Usual
concessions. House and gardens adults €8, children U7 no extra
charge. Family and group discounts.
Leighlinbridge – The Garden Village,
t: Mary Meaney, Secretary, Leighlinbridge Improvement
Group 086–6027751
w: www.leighlinbridgetidytowns.ie
Leighlinbridge enjoys a
range of gardens, built
and designed by the
local community to
commemorate various
aspects of village life over
the years. ese include
the Millennium Garden,
seven small individual
gardens, each with its
own theme represented
by trees, shrubs and
stones. e Vivaldi Garden is based on Vivaldi’s musical concerto
e Four Seasons while the Garden of Remembrance commemorates
important occasions in the history of the village. ese include the visit
by the Canadian Prime Minister, Ireland’s first all county World War 1
memorial and the Entente Florale Gold Medal Award. e Sculpture
Garden is dedicated to three of Leighlinbridge’s most famous sons
– Cardinal Patrick Francis Moran, John Tyndall, the mountaineer and
scientist and Captain Myles Keogh, second in command to General
Custer.
FACILITIES: Restaurants, award winning garden centre, hotel, public
houses, castle, historic buildings, angling, walking routes, picnic site.
M9 motorway and follow signs for Leighlinbridge which is clearly
signposted off the R448, 3km from here. Alternatively visitors
travelling from Carlow Town should follow the R448.
GPS: 52.735586, -6.973691
OPENING TIMES: Daylight hours. Free admission.
Morgan’s Garden Centre,
Green Road, Carlow t: 059–9143092
Morgan’s Garden Centre
was established in 1988
on the outskirts of Carlow
Town and continues to be
a family-run business. It
has since become known
as a retailer of plants of the
highest standard including
many varieties and plants
grown and nurtured on
site. ey carry a large
range of garden accessories
and gardening solution
products to deal with your
growing pains! Leading
brands include Westland products, Taylor’s bulbs, Unwin seeds,
Pheebert’s statues, Garden Trading and Burgon and Ball.
e Gift Shop is stocked with hand-picked giftware from many
brands including e Gorjuss range by Santoro, delph by Nina
Campbell and Lisa Stickley, Lisbeth-Dahl, Miss Etoile, Egmont toys,
St. Eval Candle Company and a range of gift cards and wrapping with
local designer Clare Jordan, a firm favourite.
FACILITIES: car park, toilet, wheelchair accessible.
HOW TO FIND US: Located on the outskirts of Carlow Town,
off the R448 (in direction of Kilkenny). Take the first turn to the left
after Carlow Institute of Technology and take the right exit at the next
roundabout.
GPS: 52.817096, -6.938281
OPENING TIMES: Monday – Saturday 9.30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday
2 – 6 p.m., Bank Holidays 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
35
gardens
garden trail
Oak Park Forest Park,
Winner of the
Oak Park - outskirts of Carlow Town
RDS Irish Forestry
t: 059–9131554 Carlow Tourist Office
Awards 2013
ere are few
locations which could
rival the beauty and
tranquillity of Oak
Park Forest Park. Ideal
for leisurely strolls
and walks, a visit
here is a relaxing and
pleasurable experience
and a must for any
visitor to Co. Carlow.
Colour coded circular walkways of varying lengths with excellent
accessible surfaces and easy gradients make a visit here an enjoyable
experience for young and old alike.
e park is a mature, mixed species woodland of over 120 acres
with a predominance of beech, oak, scots pine, silver fir, larch and
sycamore. e proximity of the walkways to the extensive collection
of ferns, mosses and woodland flora provides the visitor with an
ideal opportunity to interact with nature. Boasting a rich diversity
of wildlife, the lakes and their surrounds provide a habitat for swans
and ducks, while the islands shelter many wild and game birds. e
Woodland Walks have been laid out to encompass the broadest range
of natural features. Extending over 4 kilometres they include Butlers
Wood Loop (700 metres), the Lake Path (800 metres), Fox Covert
Track (1,100 metres) and Sally Island Trail (1,700 metres).
Situated on the outskirts of Carlow Town, the park is a popular
destination for walking and educational visits. e park also features
a universally accessible playground with full facilities for individuals
with a disability – the first of its kind in Ireland, bat sanctuary, picnic
area, informal leisure areas and seating at regular intervals. Outdoor
exercise equipment adds to the recreational enjoyment of the park.
FACILITIES: Universally accessible playground, outdoor exercise
equipment, outdoor picnic tables, wheelchair accessible walkways and
toilets, large car park, bat sanctuary and bird-watching area.
motorway. Follow signs for Carlow taking the first right after Toughers
Restaurant. Take a left at the next junction. Access also possible off
Dr. Cullen Park Road close to the Athy Road junction.
GPS: 52.864166, -6.894982
OPENING TIMES: Year round daily, daylight hours.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Free entrance.
Rathvilly Garden Centre,
Rathvilly (on N81), Co. Carlow
t: 059–9161594 w: www.carlowgardentrail.com
Rathvilly Garden
Centre is a familyrun business,
operated by Dermot
Byrne who prides
himself on offering
a comprehensive
range of home-grown
bedding plants
and shrubs for the
gardening enthusiast.
e garden centre
features a range of
bulbs, seeds, garden
tools and a large selection of trees, shrubs, container pots, fruit trees,
outdoor pots, moss peat, trellis and fencing. ere is a strong emphasis
on “growing your own” with a vegetable exhibition area. Trained and
experienced staff will give advice on all gardening queries.
36
FACILITIES: Wheelchair accessible, toilet (wheelchair friendly).
HOW TO FIND US: 3.5 km from Rathvilly and 6 km from
Baltinglass on the Rathvilly – Baltinglass N81 Road. Well signposted.
GPS: 52.898476, -6.697363
OPENING TIMES: March – September, Monday – Saturday 9.30
a.m. – 6 p.m., Sunday 11.30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Bank Holidays 10 a.m. –
6 p.m. For winter opening times telephone 059–9161594.
Rathwood,
Rath, Tullow, Co. Carlow
t: 059–9156285
w: www.rathwood.com and www.fundaysout.ie
Rathwood,
winner of Store
of the Year 2013,
is a family-owned
centre located
on the Carlow –
Wicklow border.
It has something
for everyone, from
home interiors
to ladies clothing
and shoes to
plants, paving
and fun activities for the family. ere are also furniture and kitchen
showrooms, a fine food delicatessen and the spectacular Birds of Prey
Centre. Everyone from the green-fingered to the new home owner
is guaranteed to get inspiration, practical advice and friendly service.
Dine at Rathwood’s country-style restaurant with fresh, wholesome
food and home baking. Combine a lunch or afternoon tea stop
at Rathwood with your visit to Altamont Gardens. A ride on the
Rathwood train, walk in the forest, visit to the Chocolate Factory or
the Woodlands Falconry and Birds of Prey Centre makes Rathwood
a joy to visit at any time of the year. Groups welcome with large coach
and car park.
FACILITIES: Multi-award winning exclusive centre consisting of
furniture and interiors shops, gift shops, restaurant, garden centre,
ladies fashions and shoes, potteries, vintage style children’s clothing,
stone landscaping, garden sheds, childrens’ outdoor play garden,
train rides, forest walks, large coach and car park, toilets, wheelchair
access, Fáilte Ireland Visitor Information Point, Chocolate Garden,
Woodlands Falconry and Birds of Prey Centre and Rathgall Hillfort.
HOW TO FIND US: 10km from Altamont Gardens. From
Dublin/Waterford take exit 4 on M9 motorway. Follow signs for
Castledermot, then take the R418 to Tullow. Rathwood is located on
the R725 Tullow to Shillelagh Road, 5km from Tullow Town.
GPS: 52.796597, -6.660739
OPENING HOURS: Monday – Saturday including Bank Holidays
9.30 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Sunday 11a.m. – 6 p.m.
Rath Wood Forest Walks,
Rath, Tullow, Co. Carlow
For information contact Rathwood t: 059–9156285
e serene, tranquil
woodland trails of Rath
Wood offer gentle walks
for all ages from a short
leisurely wheelchair
accessible path to the
longer looped Molloy
walk. Rath Wood offers
a sanctuary for many
mammals, birds and
insect species within its 185 acre boundaries. It is home to red deer,
rabbits, mink, foxes, pheasants and dragonflies amongst others.
e forest contains a great variety of tree species including beech,
gardens/heritage trails
garden trail
oak, sitka spruce, norway spruce, birch, douglas fir and alder. Take a
pleasant stroll through the natural beauty of Rath Wood and discover
a landscape rich in geology, archaeology and wild life. e entrance to
this forest is from Rathwood Home and Garden World’s carpark. e
historical feature of Rathgall Hillfort which dates back to 800 B.C. is
located nearby. Call into Rathwood’s reception for brochures on all of
the above or check out the website www.rathwood.com
FACILITIES: Coillte forest walks – wheelchair/child buggy friendly
walk to the pond with seating at regular intervals. Woodland map
guide, toilets and restaurant available at Rathwood. Information and
bridge entrance to woods is via Rathwood car park. Information on
Rathgall Hillfort is available in the Fáilte Ireland Visitor Information
Point in Rathwood.
HOW TO FIND US: Immediately adjacent to Rathwood – see
directions above. 10km from Altamont Gardens.
CAR PARK OPEN: Monday – Saturday (incl. Bank Holidays)
9.30 a.m. – 6 p.m., Sundays 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Coillte operate an
open door policy. GPS: 52.796597, -6.660739
Burtown House and Gardens,
Athy, Co. Kildare t: 059-8623148
w: www.burtownhouse.ie
e gardens at Burtown are
made up of several areas,
including large herbaceous
borders, shrubberies, a rock
garden, a yew walk divided
by a pergola, a sundial
garden, an old orchard, a
more formal stable yard
garden, a walled organic
vegetable garden and a large woodland garden surrounded on all sides
by water. ere is a sculpture park set in wildflower meadows with
mown pathways. Shop and plant sales area.
FACILITIES: Car park, toilets and restaurant. e Gallery Café is
open every ursday – Sunday serving scrumptious lunches based on
fresh seasonal produce from the organic kitchen garden. Booking is
recommended. Group bookings possible all year round.
HOW TO FIND US: From Dublin / Waterford take exit 3 on M9
motorway and follow signs for Athy. Take the second left turn and
Burtown House is on the left, well signposted.
GPS: 52.996672, -6.870744
OPENING TIMES: April 12th – September 29th, 10 a.m. – 5.30 p.m.
ursday – Sunday and Bank Holidays. February 2015, Snowdrop
Month, tours daily. ADMISSION: Adults €6, children €4, under 12 free.
Newtownbarry House and Garden
Bunclody, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford
t: 053-9376383 / 087-0569805 / 087-1227846
w: www.newtownbarryhouse.com
is Victorian classical house
near the River Slaney is
surrounded by lawns, ancient
trees and a sunken garden.
e house can be visited and
has a tearoom and art gallery.
Parts of Newtownbarry
House and Garden date
back to the eighteenth and
nineteenth century and have
been recently restored. e Sunken Garden covering approx. 2 acres, is
a colourful walled garden which includes a formal oval pool, a fountain
and a series of borders filled with shrubs and herbaceous perennials,
enclosed by lines of dwarf hedges, mature trees, a rose garden and a lake.
FACILITIES: Car park, toilets and tea room. Wheelchair accessible.
HOW TO FIND US: In Bunclody Town cross over the bridge in the
direction of Carnew and you will see the entrance gates.
GPS: 52.65673, -6.65035
OPENING TIMES: June – August, Tuesday – Sunday including
Bank Holiday Mondays 2 – 6 p.m. or by prior appointment.
ADMISSION CHARGES: Gardens – adult €8. House and garden
– adult €8. Concessions for senior citizens and groups over 10 €6.
Children under-12 free.
heritage trails
a brochure of each route can be obtained from Carlow Tourist Office, College Street, Carlow
carlow – trails of the saints
Carlow is a county with an exceptionally rich ecclesiastical heritage containing
a number of sites which can be deemed to be of national significance. These
include the monastic site at St. Mullins, the Romanesque doorway at Killeshin,
the medieval Cathedral of Old Leighlin and the exquisite Adelaide Memorial
Church at Myshall. These sites and many others have been incorporated into three
separate driving routes which between them cover the entire county of Carlow and
feature some 51 ecclesiastical attractions. St. Patrick’s Trail covers the northern
area of the county and is named after Ireland’s national saint, who is reputed to
have baptised the King of Leinster in this area. St. Laserian’s Trail covers the midCarlow area while the seventh century ecclesiastical site at St. Mullins in south
Carlow, founded by St. Moling, is the highlight of St. Moling’s Trail.
mount leinster heritage drive
The Mount Leinster Heritage Drive is a 75km driving route
through the beautiful countryside of rural south Carlow taking
in the towns and villages of Borris, Bunclody, Clonegal, Kildavin,
Myshall, Fenagh and Bagenalstown. Notable features in the
landscape include the Blackstairs Mountains and Mount Leinster,
its highest peak at 795 metres. Identifiable road signs make the
route an easy-to-follow tour while large map boards in the centre
of each village or town provide further information.
37
e character and heritage of Carlow’s rural
towns and villages reflect some of its most
charming aspects. Riverside towns with
graceful medieval bridges, old stone-built
estate towns, bustling market towns and
hillside villages add their individual colour
and character to the Carlow landscape. Use
the map on page 22 of this publication to
guide you on your touring route.
Aghade Bridge on the River Slaney
AGHADE: a beautiful viewing spot over the
River Slaney, close to the village of Ardattin
and an ideal location for sightseeing.
GPS: 52.758754, -6.729687
ARDATTIN: a picturesque country village,
6 km south of Tullow near the River Slaney.
Located closeby was Ballintemple House,
birthplace of Pierce Butler, soldier, statesman
and signatory of the American Constitution.
Although the house was sadly destroyed by
fire in 1913, an extensive tree nursery tended
by the State forestry service, Coillte, now
occupies the Ballintemple Estate which is also
the base of the National Tree, Shrub and Seed
Centre in Ireland. e beauty of this village is
strengthened by the pride of its people, which is
reflected in its overall character.
GPS: 52.754059, -6.706826
BAGENALSTOWN: otherwise known in
its Gaelic version as Muine Bheag is sited on
a pleasant stretch of the River Barrow and
derives its name from Walter Bagenal, who, in
founding the town, had visions of
mirroring the city of Versailles in northern
France. However, his efforts became
frustrated due to the re-routing of the
coach road away from the town. He left
more than enough for visitors to enjoy with
handsome stone public buildings including
the impressive Courthouse, now a public
library. e arrival of the railway in 1846
rejuvenated the town, and its neo-classical
railway station is one of the finest in Ireland.
Attributed to William Deane Butler it is
constructed of limestone and granite and is a
seven bay, two-storey building in an Italianate
villa style. Today the station still retains
its charm in a largely unaltered state. is
former mill town made full use of the River
Barrow to transport grain, beet, coal, turf and
Guinness by barge, evidence of which can be
seen in its fine industrial architecture. Near
the railway bridge on the R705 Borris Road
is an example of the Carlow Fence which
consists of a decorative fence made of granite
pieces, laid horizontally over vertical posts
and is found nowhere else in the world.
One of the finest views of the town may
be enjoyed on the approach road from
Leighlinbridge and includes the spire of St.
Andrew’s Catholic Church and the fine tower
of St. Mary’s Church of Ireland Church.
St. Andrew’s Catholic Church was built
in 1820 on a site provided by the Newton
family, successors to the Bagenals. e stained
glass behind the altar is worthy of particular
attention. Nowadays, riverside walks, picnic
tables and a picturesque lock enhance this fine
town which has been twinned with the French
town of Pont Pean since 1999.
ATTRACTIONS: e ruins of the early
fourteenth century Ballymoon Castle and
thirteenth century Ballyloughan Castle are
located near the town – see page 21. Wells
Church, situated closeby, is the preserved
ruin of a church dating back to 1262. e
church is surrounded by an enclosed and wellmaintained graveyard which is still in
use today.
ACTIVITIES: Outdoor heated swimming
pool – see page 31 for details. e McGrath
complex offers fine sporting facilities including
cricket, hurling, soccer and Gaelic football, a
tennis court and pitch and putt course. e
River Barrow in this area is renowned for
coarse fishing with wheelchair friendly fishing
stands located near the swimming pool. e
Barrow Way long-distance walking route
– see page 19. GPS: 52.702099, -6.95607
BALLYMURPHY: A gentle hillside village
captured in a glen on mountain slopes which
derives its name from Matthew Murphy
of Clonroche, Co. Wexford, a powerful
landowner and builder of a castle in the area in
the mid-seventeenth century. is is the first
village encountered on the Co. Carlow side
of the Blackstairs Mountains by the traveller
passing close to the picturesque Sculloge Gap.
GPS: 52.571837, -6.859298
Quayside in Bagenalstown
38
ACTIVITIES: Walking: South Leinster Way
– see page 19/20.
towns and villages
Bagenalstown Courthouse, now the library
BALLINKILLEN: 8 km south of
Bagenalstown off the R705 Bagenalstown –
Borris Road is the picturesque village of
Ballinkillen, nestling under the
shadow of Mount Leinster. In
the churchyard you can see a
large replica of a nineteenth
century high cross erected by
Cardinal Patrick Francis Moran,
to commemorate his parents.
Cardinal Moran enjoyed a
distinguished church career and
later became Archbishop of Sydney.
GPS: 52.647372, -6.928469
BALLON: e Blackstairs and Wicklow
Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop
to the pastures and cornfields, the winding
country roads and traditional farmsteads
around the charming rural village of Ballon.
ere is a strong archaeological presence in
the area which includes a motte and bailey at
Castlemore and Castlegrace, ringforts, cashels,
standing stones and holy wells. Ballon Hill,
450 feet above sea level provides magnificent
views of the surrounding countryside while a
map board on site supplies information on the
archaeological significance of the area. Located
on the outskirts of the village at Ballykealey is
the Quaker graveyard, strongly associated with
the Lecky family for whom Ballykealey House
(now Ballykealey Manor Hotel) was built in
the 1830s. GPS: 52.739119 -6.7697413
ATTRACTIONS: Organic Garden – grounds
of Ballon National School, Slí na Sceacha close
to the Forge Restaurant, wild flower corridors
on both sides of the village with picnic site at
the entrance to the Lecky Graveyard. Fáilte
Ireland Visitor Information Point in Old
School, Siopa Glas, Altamont Gardens (pg.
32), e Forge Restaurant (pg. 43), Lace
Gallery and Malone’s Fruit Farm (pg. 15).
Wild flower corridor at Ballon village
towns and villages
BORRIS is a Georgian, granite village, full of
charm and heritage nestling in the fertile valley
of the River Barrow and the ideal gateway for
nearby Mount Leinster and the Blackstairs
Mountains. Its old, granite houses and
Victorian shop fronts have remained largely
intact. Most of the town’s buildings stand on
the north side of a steeply rising main street,
overshadowed by the presence of the very
substantial demesne walls of Borris House.
Built in Tudor style, Borris House is the home
of the Kavanagh family, direct descendants of
the MacMurrough Kavanagh dynasty, former
Celtic Kings of Leinster. e town prospered
in the late 1800s as Arthur MacMurrough
Kavanagh, the landlord of the time, developed
a sawmill and a thriving lace-making industry
– Borris Lace soon became famous for its
beautiful, intricate patterns and found its way
to stately homes as far away as Russia. He
also instigated the building of the spectacular
16-arch viaduct, situated at the lower end of
the town, which carried the now defunct Great
Southern and Western Railway Line between
Bagenalstown and Palace East in Co. Wexford.
A pleasing feature of the town is the Sacred
Heart Church, built in 1820 with a façade
of granite decorated with limestone which
incorporates a Romanesque style doorway.
Selling the famous Borris Ewe at Borris Mart
ATTRACTIONS: Borris House is open on
selected days throughout the year. See page 12.
Clashganny Lock, 5km south of Borris on
the R729 New Ross Road offers a panoramic
view of Carlow’s waterways system and rich
countryside.
ACTIVITIES: Hang-gliding and paragliding
on Mount Leinster, walking on the South
Leinster and Barrow Ways – see pages 19/20.
Coarse angling – see page 17.
GPS: 52.599837, -6.923121
CARRIGDUFF: a beautiful landscaped village
situated on the N80 Carlow – Rosslare Road
on the outskirts of Bunclody. It is a gateway to
the Blackstairs Mountains and Kilbrannish
Forest Recreation Area – featuring two
looped walks, see page 20 for details – along
the tree-lined hills of the Clody River Valley.
GPS: 52.656363, -6.659238
Mount Leinster on the Blackstairs Mountains range
ACTIVITIES: Outdoor heated swimming pool
and toddler’s pool – mid-June to August. Tennis
court, bike park and playground all year round.
CARLOW: In Carlow Town the visitor
is presented with a rich tapestry of history
dating back a millennium and beyond, many
associated famous names and an architectural
heritage telling the story of the town’s evolution
since the Normans first came here in the
twelfth century. With a population of over
20,000, Carlow is the county town and gateway
to the South-East standing at the confluence of
the Barrow and Burrin rivers. Tradition has it
that the junction of the two rivers once covered
such a large area of ground that a lake was
formed, or, as some believe four lakes, hence the
name Ceatharloch or City of the Four Lakes.
As a strategic river crossing, the town was the
scene of a number of important battles and
the Anglo Normans signalled its importance
by building the great Carlow Castle in the
thirteenth century. Famous names associated
with Carlow include George Bernard Shaw,
the dramatist and critic whose mother Lucinda
Elizabeth Gurley was born in Carlow. e
famous impressionist artist Frank O’Meara was
born at 37 Dublin Street on March 30th 1853,
sharing that birth date with Vincent Van Gogh.
Carlow Castle
A vibrant college and market town, Carlow
enjoys a thriving arts and crafts community,
an exciting nightlife, a strong tradition of Irish
language and culture and a superb range of
shops, boutiques and restaurants.
GPS: 52.8349944, -6.9297875
ATTRACTIONS: Carlow Town Heritage
Trail – see pages 24 and 25 for details.
Carlow Town Park – a 12.8 acre park on the
banks of the River Barrow offering a host of
amenities for all the family – see page 25.
Brownshill Dolmen – Europe’s largest portal
dolmen, with a capstone weighing 101tonnes,
5km from the town on the R726 – see page 21.
VISUAL Centre for Contemporary Art and
the George Bernard Shaw eatre on the
grounds of Carlow College – see page 6.
CLONMORE is one of Carlow’s most
important early Christian sites with a wealth
of history for visitors to discover. Situated in
the scenic north-eastern corner of Co. Carlow,
the present road cuts through the monastery
founded by St. Maedóc around 600 A.D. No
trace of the monastic buildings remain but
the importance of the site is attested by the
presence of two large crosses, nineteen crossinscribed stones, an ogham stone and two
bullaun stones. is fascinating collection
of crosses features exceptional examples of
craftsmanship.
e area is a haven for the historian, researcher
and photographer to enjoy a rich legacy of
historical items from the sixth century abbey
remains to the twelfth century castle ruins and
the nineteenth century McCall connection.
P.J. McCall, the famous balladeer was born here
and composed hundreds of ballads of historic
interest including Boolavogue and Follow Me Up
to Carlow. GPS: 52.827109, -6.569184
39
towns and villages
clonegal wins gold at home and abroad
Clonegal was nominated by the Dept. of
the Environment, Community and Local
Government to represent Ireland in the
Entente Florale European Competition
in 2013 and won a gold medal for their
tremendous efforts. Clonegal also achieved a
gold medal in the Tidy Towns Competition
for the 4th year in succession and was overall
winner in the Carlow Pride of Place.
The village of Cluain na nGall, or in
English, “the Meadow of the Stranger”
is set in a valley between the Blackstairs
and Wicklow mountains, straddling the
meeting place of the rivers Slaney and Derry
where the counties of Carlow, Wicklow and
Wexford meet. The mountains, the valleys
and the rivers, the fishing and the shooting
facilities have made this village a favourite
stopping place over the years. It is often
referred to as the “Switzerland of Ireland”
for its outstanding natural beauty. With a
backdrop of tree clad hills and abundant
wild and bird life centred on its picturesque
river, Clonegal is a delight to explore.
ATTRACTIONS: Huntington Castle was
converted into a residence by the Esmonde
family who also built a fine seventeenth
century estate village near their gates. e
avenue approaching the castle from the
village is planted with French limes dating
from 1680 and leads up to gardens which
were laid out in Italian style. Guided tours are
available daily from 2 – 5 p.m. June – August
and weekends in May and September.
t: 053–9377160. See page 35.
e Weavers Cottages, located in the village
were built to the direction of Alexander
Durdin of Huntington Castle in 1690 –
see page 13 for details.
St. Fiaac’s Church of Ireland: the present
Church was built in 1819 on the site of a
former Church and the graveyard around
it has gravestones dating from 1777.
St. Brigid’s Roman Catholic Church was
constructed (1824) around the previous
thatched chapel then in use. When
completed the old building was taken out
through the doors of the new church.
Clonegal – favourably referred to as the
Switzerland of Ireland
the Wicklow Mountains, the area has a wide
variety of walks.
GPS: 52.8654, -6.55852
Granite stone cottages in Fenagh Village
40
FENAGH: Fenagh is known for its
architectural design and granite buildings with
fine examples of stone work to be seen in the
houses and surrounds throughout the village.
One of the most famous families associated
with the area was the Lecky Watsons, a
Quaker family, who first settled here in the
early eighteenth century. Descendants of the
family created the first set of written rules for
playing polo while another member of the
family hunted down the last recorded wolf
in Ireland on the slopes of Mount Leinster.
Outside Ballydarton House on the outskirts
of the village is a fine example of the Carlow
Fence. GPS: 52.713595, -6.84726
HACKETSTOWN: Eagle Hill, south
of the town, has delightful views from its
summit and most of the county can be seen
spread out below. Surrounded by woodland
and farmland, the village is a gateway to the
higher Wicklow Mountains to the east and
the beaches of Wexford to the south.
ACTIVITIES: Situated at the foothills of
Through enormous work in recent times,
the garden to the rear of the cottage once
again contains the traditional vegetables
that were consumed at the time of
occupancy of the Weaver’s Cottage.
Depending on the time of year, visitors
may find staples such as potatoes, cabbage,
carrots, parsnips, onions, leeks, with herbs
such as chive, tarragon, mint, rosemary
and plants like blackcurrants, raspberries,
gooseberries and strawberries.
KILDAVIN: A unique little village outside
Bunclody, off the main Carlow-Rosslare
Road (N80). It nestles beneath the
Blackstairs Mountains and has the River
Slaney running through it. The old monastic
Cranavane Well, winner of the 2013 Carlow
Heritage Award, is Kildavin’s pride and joy.
Dating from the fifth century this oasis of
peace on the outskirts of the village is well
worth a visit.
The new village garden created on the site
of the old ball alley links local wildlife,
sustainable willow and shrub planting and
local granite stone. This garden is situated
in the village centre beside St. Peter and
Paul’s Church. St. Lazerian’s R.C. Church
towers on a hill over the streetscape of
The River Slaney near Kildavin Village
Clonegal is a favourite location for walkers,
marking the end of the Wicklow Way, a
130km way-marked walking trail, which
starts in Marley Park, Rathfarnham, Dublin
and ends in Clonegal. In Clonegal itself
there are Slí na Sláinte walks of various
lengths. GPS: 52.694629, -6.647582
Visit: www.clonegalkildavin.ie
Kildavin and is beside the local national
school. GPS: 52.68377, -6.685339
ATTRACTIONS: e South Leinster Way
long distance walking trail starts here at the
Church of Ireland Church. Stage 1 leads
the walker from Kildavin to Borris, covering
a distance of 22 km – see page 19/20 for
details. Visit www.clonegalkildavin.ie
KILLESHIN: an
important medieval
monastery, was the
centre of learning
and culture since
early Christian
times. e present
church was built
c.1150 and is well
worth visiting not
just for its beautiful
Romanesque
doorway, one of the finest examples in the
country, but for its scenic setting. Nestling in
peaceful countryside, it has such wonderful
views across the Barrow Valley to the
Blackstairs Mountains that it has been called
“e Balcony of Carlow”. e doorway is
also one of only a small number of doorways
in Ireland with a triangular gable above the
arches.
ATTRACTIONS: Oisín Park with picnic
area and children’s playground. Slieve
Margy long distance walking route. e
Waterworks. GPS: 52.84718, -7.00152
towns and villages
ACTIVITIES: Walking along the Barrow
Way – see page 19 for details.
Riverside sculpture in Leighlinbridge Village
LEIGHLINBRIDGE: e gently sloping
hillsides surrounding Leighlinbridge add
to the visual delights of this village where a
generous and industrious community spirit
continues to enhance its natural beauty while
recognising and celebrating its historic and
strategic importance over many centuries.
e development of the village was greatly
influenced through its historic importance as
a transport route. Over 300 years before the
Christian era, a great battle took place here to
capture the fort of Dinn Righ, reputedly the
ancient seat of the Kings of Leinster. e focal
point of Leighlinbridge is its valerian bearded
bridge, built in 1320 by Maurice Jakis, Canon
of Kildare Cathedral. It remains today one
of the oldest functioning bridges in Europe.
e Black Castle is one of the main features
of Leighlinbridge and is located at the foot of
the bridge, on the east bank of the river. One
of the earliest Norman fortresses in Ireland,
it had the usual stormy history and all that
remains of the castle is the west half of the
tower approximately 50 feet high and part of
the bawn wall.
Leighlinbridge has produced its share of
famous people including the daring Captain
Myles Keogh, aide to General Custer, the
scientist and mountaineer John Tyndall, the
former Archbishop of Sydney, Patrick Francis
Moran and the Right Hon. Brian Mulroney,
Prime Minister of Canada from 1984 – 1992
whose family hailed from Leighlinbridge.
ATTRACTIONS: e Millennium, Vivaldi
and Sculpture Gardens and Garden of
Remembrance, Ireland’s first all-county
World War 1 Memorial. Arboretum Home
and Garden Heaven.
See pages 33 and 35 for details.
GPS: 52.735586, -6.973691
The River Barrow at Milford
MILFORD: A pleasant stop on the River
Barrow which was once the centre of a thriving
milling industry. e mill at Milford was
established in the 1790s and is one of the most
extensive and celebrated in Ireland. Electricity
was generated from here in 1891, providing
Carlow with the distinction of being the first
inland town in Ireland and Britain to receive
electric power. is idyllic setting features a
woodland area, containing an aquatic triangle
rich in wildlife with a diversity of plants, animals
and habitats. Spot the herons, kingfishers and
swallows among the many species of birds.
GPS: 52.781063, -6.963327
MYSHALL lies at the foot of the northern
slopes of the Blackstairs Mountains which
provide a magnificent backdrop to the rich
pasturelands and winding country roads.
e village forms part of the stunning Mount
Leinster Heritage Drive which offers beautiful
views of Mount Leinster and the Nine Stones
vantage point. Peter Collier, founder of the
famous Collier Publishing Company in New
York, hails from here. e village enjoys a long
religious history with St. Finian born in the
townsland of Rosacurra near Myshall in 454
A.D. while St. Columbanus, Ireland’s first
great European saint, has strong links with
the area. e ruins of St. Finian’s Church in
the village centre date to the sixth century and
feature fine granite stonework. In the graveyard
you will see a double bullaun stone and if the
sun hits the Blackstairs in the right way, you
might see two vertical lines called the Witch’s
Slide running down the side of the mountain.
Together these landmarks form a colourful
ancient story about a Carlow witch who had a
falling out with her neighbour, threw a stone
(said to be the Standing Stone in Clonee), slid
down the mountain and fell to her knees where
she left two imprints in the bullaun stone.
ATTRACTIONS: e Adelaide Memorial
Church. Built as a miniature of Salisbury
Cathedral in England, this architectural gem was
completed in 1912 by John Duguid of Dover,
to commemorate his wife Adelaide who died
in 1903 and his daughter Constance who was
killed in a riding accident near the village. In this
“exquisite church of rare beauty” many objects of
interest are to be seen including marble, mosaic,
woodcarving, stained glass and ironwork. e
design of the marble floor in the Chancel is
taken from St. Mark’s in Venice. e key is held
locally by Mrs. Bridie Daly (white bungalow
opposite church grounds t: 059–9157671 –
please phone in advance or alternatively contact
John Kelly t: 059-9157584/087-9293661).
GPS: 52.685852, -6.780344
NEWTOWN: St. Patrick’s Church in
the village was built in the 1850s and is
considered one of the most beautiful churches
in the diocese. e church features eight
stained glass windows made by the famous
Clarke family of Dublin in the early part of
Adelaide Memorial Church, Myshall
the last century. e decorative plasterwork
on the ceiling is particularly eye-catching and
is believed to be the work of Italian refugee
artisans who were working locally in Fenagh
House at the time the church was being built.
GPS: 52.7225922, -6.8780363
NURNEY: A small village with an interesting
pub, a church and ancient stone cross. Nearby
at Clonmelsh cemetery Walt Disney’s
ancestors are buried.
GPS: 52.751979, -6.911317
St. Laserian’s Cathedral, Old Leighlin
OLD LEIGHLIN: St. Laserian’s Cathedral
was built in the thirteenth century on the site
of a church founded by St. Gobban in 632
A.D. is early church was one of the foremost
monastic houses in Leinster at one time with
over 1,500 monks in residence. An important
seventh century church synod
took place in a local field which influenced the
date of Easter for the entire Christian world.
e field known as Pairc Baun or White
Field took its name from the gathering of
the white-robed monks. St. Laserian’s Holy
Well (Molaise) situated on the School Road
celebrates its annual pattern on April 18th
with an ecumenical service and a procession to
the well. A strong tradition of healing powers,
based on herbs, plants, flowers and sages is still
attributed to the well. e Big Tree in the village
centre is believed to symbolise the pre-Christian
sacred tree “Eo Rossa” while a memorial to the
insurgents of 1798 is situated opposite the Big
Tree. Culm crushers, important to the economy
of the area, are positioned on the Quarry Road.
See page 12 for more details.
GPS: 52.736456, -7.023448
41
towns and villages
RATHOE, in the northern part of Ballon
parish, is situated between Tullow and Ballon,
a small, friendly village made famous by Bard
Val Vousden, actor and entertainer who wrote
the song e Roads around Rathoe. St. Patrick’s
Church is an excellent example of nineteenth
century craftsmanship with a beautiful stained
glass window by Early’s Studio, Dublin.
GPS: 52.786663, -6.799020
RATHVILLY: e picturesque village of
Rathvilly in north Carlow lies at the foothills
of the Wicklow Mountains. It is a most
historic village as the Kings of Hy Kinsellagh
had a residence here. St. Patrick visited and
baptised its king, his wife and his infant son
in 450 A.D. at the Holy Well, which may still
be viewed in the local graveyard. e scene is
depicted on a mural in St. Patrick’s Church, a
beautiful granite building, located in the village
centre. e River Slaney which flows through
Rathvilly offers angling and a rich variety of
bird life including herons to visitors.
ATTRACTIONS: Monument to Kevin
Barry, a local boy who joined the fight for Irish
freedom. GPS: 52.88039, -6.6957
Tradition states however that the history of
this place goes back a great deal further with
associations to Fionn Mac Cumhail, the
famous figure of Irish mythology, who gave the
village its first name Rinn Ros Broic. Fionn is
said to have stopped here to consolidate his
followers on his way north to do battle.
ATTRACTIONS: Heritage centre – see page
12 for details. GPS: 52.489361, -6.928844
ACTIVITIES: Barrow Way walking route
– see page 19 for details.
ST. MULLINS is a scenically, charming
riverside village on the banks of the River
Barrow with an impressive ecclesiastical history
and is one of the country’s most significant
archaeological sites, standing in importance
with Glendalough and Clonmacnoise.
e area gets its name from St. Moling
(614–696 A.D.). e townsland has physical
remains from many significant periods in
Irish history – an early Christian monastic
settlement, a Norman Motte and Bailey, a
large graveyard with many insurgents from the
1798 Rebellion, nineteenth century flour and
woollen mills and the river with its history in
both fishing and canal boat transportation.
TINNAHINCH/GRAIGUENAMANAGH
are popular boating centres on the River
Barrow whose character reflects a bygone time
when the area was an important focal point for
commercial traffic on the river. Both towns are
connected by a beautiful bridge, constructed
in 1767 when the canal system was being built
to improve navigation. One of Ireland’s finest
Cistercian monasteries was founded in 1204
by Norman monks from Stanley Abbey in
Wiltshire at the invitation of William Marshal.
ACTIVITIES: Canoeing, scenic riverside
walk from Tinnahinch to St. Mullins – 6km
– see page 19 for details.
GPS: 52.53888, -6.952529
St. Mullins on the River Barrow
(Courtesy Department
of The Environment, Heritage and Local Government)
TINRYLAND: A quiet, picturesque village
located 5.5km from Carlow Town, off the
N80 Carlow–Rosslare Road. St. Joseph’s
Catholic Church, built in 1819, contains the
striking stained glass window to the memory
of Captain Myles Keogh who was born in
Leighlinbridge in 1840 and was killed at the
battle of the Little Big Horn in 1876. St.
Joseph’s claims to be the first rural church in
Ireland to use electric light due to local man
Paddy Dowling, who played an important
part in bringing electricity to rural Ireland
in the 1940s. In recent times a fine amenity
park has added to the range of facilities in
the village. is includes an astro turf pitch
(floodlit), tennis court (floodlit), children’s
play area, outdoor adult exercise machines, a
300 metre walking track, picnic area and two
floodlit soccer pitches. Tinryland GAA Club,
in nearby Rathcrogue, has two football pitches
(one floodlit), also indoor squash and handball
courts. GPS: 52.797141, -6.895631
TULLOW is located in the River Slaney
Valley in the midst of rich, fertile agricultural
land. Tullow reflects an enduring historical
culture with many items of antiquity including
an ancient holed stone “Cloch a Phoill”
(Ardristan), a pre-historic ring fort (Rathgall)
and a pre-historic burial place (Bawnoge).
Tullow is also the ancestral home of the famous
Wolseley family – Frederick York Wolseley
gave his name to the Wolseley car. It is known
locally as the granite town because of the fine
stone used in its walls and public buildings.
ATTRACTIONS: Tullow Museum, Bishop
Daniel Delany Museum – see pages 12/13
for details. Rathwood and Rath Wood Forest
Walks – see page 36/37 for details.
ACTIVITIES: Golfing at nearby Mount
Wolseley & Killerig Golf Club – see pages 28/
29 for details. GPS: 52.802535, -6.737261
english language schools
Carlow International English Language School
(C.I.E.L.S.), Sycamore Road, Rathnapish, Carlow
(office by appointment only) t/f: 059–9142066
Dave Barron (B.A., M.Ed., Dip.Ed. Management): 087–2204488
Catherine Barron (Accomm. Officer/HLO): 086–8621266
Danny Barron (B.B.S., Cambridge DELTA M1 & M3):
086–4060804 e: [email protected] w: www.ciels.ie
C.I.E.L.S. enjoys the unique status of being the only English Language
School in Carlow that was founded and run by a fully qualified mainstream
secondary school teacher, Dave Barron, with English being one of his
teaching subjects. C.I.E.L.S. is an exclusive, family-run School of English
Language and Irish Culture, the longest-running in Carlow, (17 years).
It is recognised by the Department of Education and Skills via Q.Q.I. /
A.C.E.L.S. (Quality & Qualifications Ireland / Accreditation and Coordination of English Language Schools). C.I.E.L.S. is a member and
supporter of Carlow Tourism. It continues to promote language tourism
for the benefit of its students and the Carlow community. In conjunction
with Carlow Tourism and Carlow Institute of Further Education,
C.I.E.L.S. works in the areas of Summer Vacation English and Irish
Culture, Vocational Training with English, School Integration Programmes
and Work Placements. Testimony to the quality of its programmes is the
amount of repeat business it enjoys from long standing business partners.
42
English Language Ireland,
The Schoolhouse,
O’ Brien Road, Carlow
t: 059–9140227
Ruth Coffey Managing Director
w: www.englishlanguage.ie
English Language Ireland welcomes
international students to Carlow
from all corners of the world. ELI
has been delivering English language
programmes since 2000. We offer a
full range of courses including the
now very popular career creating
Certificate in English Language Teaching (CELT), Academic,
Business, Junior, High School and Family English Language Courses.
e emphasis here is on quality learning in a personal, relaxed and
friendly atmosphere. English Language Ireland is fully accredited and
recognised by ACELS – Quality and Qualifications Ireland.
“is is a well organised and efficiently run school with a serious
commitment to quality” A.C.E.L.S. Inspection Report.
restaurants
The Barrow Bistro
Woodford Dolmen Hotel
Kilkenny Road
Carlow
t: 059–9142002
w: www.woodforddolmenhotel.ie
f: dolmenhotelcarlow
GPS: 52.813953, -6.951482
With its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, the Barrow Bistro
at the Woodford Dolmen Hotel is highly renowned for its fabulous
traditional Irish and international cuisine. e Head Chef, who trained
Jamie Oliver in his early days and claimed the winning title at the “Taste
of Carlow Culinary Challenge” carefully designs menus to emphasise the
goodness of fresh, locally produced foods, each dish delicately prepared
and artistically presented. Food is served all day from breakfast to
carvery lunch and a full and varied bar menu until 9 p.m.
Brooks Café Bistro
Dinn Rí, Tullow Street
Carlow Town
t: 059–9133111
w: www.dinnri.com
Search “Brooks Carlow”
on Facebook
Opens at 8 a.m. Last orders 9.15 p.m.
GPS: 52.835954, -6.929839
By day, Brooks is a busy continental style café and a much loved haunt
for coffee lovers. On a daily basis talented in-house bakers prepare fresh,
home-baked breads, cakes, pastries and other delightful treats. Brooks is a
great spot for relaxing and unwinding in a warm, friendly atmosphere over
breakfast, brunch, a delicious signature sandwich or one of their popular
lunch specials – all made to order with fresh, local ingredients. As the
evening sets in, this bustling café transforms into a classy bistro-restaurant
offering an early bird and evening brasserie menu with a variety of seafood,
steak and other dishes as well as a great selection of wines and beverages.
Clashganny House Restaurant
new
Clashganny
2014
Borris, Co. Carlow
t: 059–9771003
w: www.clashgannyhouse.com
Facebook
GPS: 52.562244, -6.910992
Newly opened Clashganny House Restaurant was recently voted Newcomer
of the Year at the 2014 Ireland Guide Restaurant Awards, and is a must visit
restaurant in scenic south Carlow. Robert and Karen White own and run
Clashganny House Restaurant just outside the picturesque village of Borris.
“With Robert’s excellent cooking, Karen’s warmly professional supervision of the
dining rooms and the wonderful setting, Clashganny House offers an accessible
treat for discerning diners and is set to become a key destination, both for the lucky
locals and visitors to the area.” Georgina Campbell. Opening Hours:
Wednesday – Saturday: 6 – 9.30 p.m., Sunday: 12.30 – 3 p.m.
The Curry Garden Indian Restaurant
Graigue Village Shopping Centre
Shamrock Business Park
new
Graiguecullen, Carlow Town
t: 059–9133422 / 087–9360991 2014
Facebook: Curry Garden Carlow
GPS: 52.839539, -6.953238
e exotic taste of Indian cuisine is now available in a newly opened
restaurant, e Curry Garden, in Graiguecullen. From the tastiest starters
to the creamiest or hottest curries, there’s something on their extensive
menu to suit all tastes. e fully air-conditioned 100 seater restaurant offers
freshly prepared dishes using spices and herbs that are made fresh from
local produce, all of which are 99.99% gluten free and are free from artificial
flavours, additives or MSG. All parties catered for in one of the private,
spacious function rooms or takeaway for an outside catering event. ere is
ample free and secure car parking available at all times so bus tours and large
groups are very welcome. Takeaway and delivery service also available.
Cellar Restaurant and Bar 1808
Step House Hotel
Main Street
Borris,Co. Carlow
t: 059–9773209
W: www.stephousehotel.ie
GPS: 52.601116, -6.92793
Alan Foley, Bridgestone Chef
of the Year 2013
e multi-award winning Cellar Restaurant, with its archways and vaulted
ceilings, is located in the old kitchens of the house. Dining is elegant with
service unparalleled ensuring complete relaxation. Cuisine is in the classical
French style and is created with individual flair using local ingredients and
an emphasis on organic food. Enjoyment is ensured with award-winning,
and member of the family, head chef Alan Foley crafting every culinary
delight. e Cellar opens Wed, urs, Fri and Sat nights from 6 – 9 p.m.
and Sun lunch 12.30-2.30 p.m. Bar 1808 serves a lounge menu from Sun
– urs from 6 p.m. Lunch is also served daily 12.30 – 2.30 p.m.
The Forge Restaurant
Kilbride, Ballon
Co. Carlow
t: 059–9159939/086–8165531
w: www.theforgekilbride.ie
GPS: 52.721892, -6.725944
Mary Jordan takes pride in sourcing ingredients from local suppliers and
the menus offer home-made vegetable soup with soda bread scones and
comforting hot lunch favourites like baked ham, roast beef or lamb, pies
and lasagnes. Home baking, local produce and traditional Irish hospitality
are hallmarks of this restaurant. Recommended by the Georgina Campbell
and McKenna Guides 2013. Winner of Best Casual Dining Award in
Carlow in 2010. Display and sale of local artwork. Open 7 days 9.30 a.m.
– 5 p.m. Open late by request. Enjoy a Slí na Sceacha walk around the
immediate hedgerow. 1km from Altamont Gardens.
Frederick’s Restaurant
Mount Wolseley Hotel
Spa and Golf Resort
GPS: 52.794127, -6.726721
Dining at Mount Wolseley is a unique experience. Start off the evening
with an aperitif in the stylish Aaron Lounge or the eclectic Wolseley
Cocktail Bar. Voted “Best Hotel Restaurant in Carlow”, Frederick’s Fine
Dining Restaurant has also received 1AA Rosette Award for its creative
and mouth watering cuisine. Renowned for its sumptious cuisine and
fine wine options, Mount Wolseley offers an extensive array of menus
to satisfy even the most discernable palate. Recommended by Taste of
Ireland with Paolo Tullio.
43
44
restaurants
Lemongrass Restaurant
Kennedy Avenue
Carlow Town
T: 059-9139392
E: [email protected]
GPS: 52.83522, -6.930461
All food is hand prepared by Asian chefs using all natural ingredients –
no MSG preservatives or artificial colourings. Lemongrass is the healthy
option – as a lot of the food is wok fried, not only is it non- fattening it
is also coeliac friendly. You should never feel too full when leaving the
restaurant, but you will leave satisfied. Lemongrass is more than a place
to eat – it’s a destination and experience that you will want to repeat.
Lennons @ VISUAL, VISUAL Centre
and George Bernard Shaw Theatre
Old Dublin Road, Carlow Town
t: 059–9179245 Open seven days
w: www.lennons.ie
www.facebook.com/lennonscarlow
GPS: 52.839161, -6.929076
Dynamic and eclectic food is served in this contemporary style restaurant
located in the VISUAL Arts Centre in the fabulous surroundings of
Carlow College. Listed in John & Sally McKenna’s Guide to the Top
100 Restaurants in Ireland for 2014 and a previous winner of Bord Bia’s
“Just Ask” Restaurant of the month, Lennons serves delicious seasonal
food using the very best of local and Irish produce. Lennons is open for
morning coffee, lunch daily and dinner urdsay – Saturday from 6 p.m.
Liberty Tree Restaurant
Talbot Hotel
Portlaoise Road, Carlow Town
t: 059–9153000
w: www.talbotcarlow.ie
GPS: 52.845989, -6.942531
e Liberty Tree is a beautiful 90-seater restaurant situated on the
fourth floor of the Talbot Hotel Carlow with spectacular views over
the rolling countryside. Specialising in fresh, home-made produce amid
elegant and comfortable surroundings. Serving an eclectic twist of
fare centred on modern, fresh and home made cuisine with particular
emphasis on European dishes.
Lord Bagenal Bar and Restaurant
Leighlinbridge
Co. Carlow
t: 059–9774000
w: www.lordbagenal.com
GPS: 52.736553, -6.975927
e Lord Bagenal Bar and Restaurant, established in 1979 is widely
regarded as one of the most innovative restaurants in the country,
renowned for fine food and excellent value for money. Food served all
day – breakfast, carvery lunch, bar food and restaurant. Recommended
by John McKenna’s Bridgestone Guide, Lucinda O’Sullivan’s Little Black
Book, Georgina Campbell Guide and Michelin Guide. e Waterfront
Restaurant is ideal for private parties, smaller intimate weddings and
celebration events.
Lotus Chinese Restaurant
Unit 2, Kennedy Avenue
(beside Carlow Shopping Centre)
Carlow Town t: 059–9131986
w: www.lotuscarlow.com
GPS: 52.834904, -6.928894
Located in the heart of Carlow Town, the Lotus was established
in 1988 offering Cantonese, Chinese and European dishes. Strong
reputation for exquisite food, friendly service and a range of fine wines.
Parties are welcome. Good value is available in our early bird menu
Monday – Friday 5 – 7.30 p.m., Wednesday all night and the Sunday
menu 3 – 7 p.m. Delivery service, six days from 5 p.m. until late.
Student discount available. Closed Tuesday.
Rachel’s Garden Café
Arboretum Home & Garden Heaven
Kilkenny Road, Leighlinbridge
Co. Carlow Exit 6 off M9 motorway
t: 059–9721558 w: www.arboretum.ie
GPS: 52.742832, -6.975890
Rachel’s Garden Café, redesigned in 2012, now seats over 300 people
with an additional terraced seating area. With a mixture of both self
and assisted service, featuring locally sourced produce and home
baking, the café is set in beautiful garden surroundings.
Bookings for groups and tours on 059–9721558 or
through www.arboretum.ie
Rathwood
Rath, Tullow
Co. Carlow
t: 059–9156285
w: www.rathwood.com
GPS: 52.796597, -6.660739
From a light snack to a full meal Rathwood has it all; seating 300 in
our spacious and comfortable restaurant. Rathwood is famous for its
homemade desserts, from pavlova to hazelnut roulade; we have a sweet
taste to suit all. Carvery lunches seven days per week with a full deli and
sandwich range too. Full Irish breakfast Monday – Saturday with buy
one get one free offer each Saturday morning. Children’s menu, colouring
competition and free outdoor children’s play garden make it a great place
for younger folk to eat too!
Reddy’s Bar and Restaurant
Tullow Street,
Carlow Town
t: 059–9142224
w: www.reddyscarlow.ie
GPS: 52.836078, -6.925447
Carlow’s oldest and longest established family run pub – yes, we go as far
back as 1768. Carlow may be one of the smallest counties in Ireland but
you are guaranteed a big Céad Míle Fáilte from friendly and efficient staff.
Relax in the spacious but cosy air conditioned bar and lounge. Enjoy a
good pint or a bite to eat – food served all day every day from our full
Irish breakfast, hot carvery, cold buffet and Table d’hôte luncheon menu.
À la Carte and evening dinner menus available. Full bar food menu, chefs
specials and snacks are available daily. Function rooms cater for small
and large parties, weddings, business or family occasions. Special dietary
requirements catered for. Large TV screen for all major sporting events.
Irish music and craic every Saturday and Sunday evening in the front bar.
Ample parking facilities in the private car park. Open 7 days.
restaurants
Riverbank Restaurant
Tullow
Co. Carlow
t: 059–9152944
GPS: 52.800135, -6.734454
A variety of great value offers are available to suit every palate and
budget. e menus offer quality Irish food including fresh fish and
vegetarian options. Casual dining serving firm favourites like paninis,
roast of the day, chowders and freshly caught fish is on offer during
the day. At night time an extensive dinner and à la carte menu features
lamb, beef and a selection of fresh fish. Opening times: 10 a.m. –
9 p.m. Monday – Friday, Saturday 12 – 10 p.m., Sunday 12 – 8 p.m.
Extended opening hours in summer. Tables available upstairs with
views of the River Slaney.
Sha-Roe Bistro
Clonegal
Co. Carlow
T: 053–9375636
E: [email protected]
GPS: 52.692877, -6.645443
Beautifully appointed little restaurant, in an immaculately maintained
eighteenth century building. Henry Stone, awarded Chef of the Year
2011 by the Georgina Campbell Guide, is exceptionally talented and
this delightful spot is definitely worth a detour – for Henry’s seasonal
menus and outstanding cooking and the atmosphere of relaxed efficiency.
Georgina Campbell Newcomer of the Year 2007, “Bib Gourmand”,
Michelin Guide 2010, Best Atmospheric Restaurant Georgina Campbell
Guide 2010.
The Tara Arms Traditional Irish Pub
and Restaurant
Church Street
Tullow, Co. Carlow
t: 059-9151305
w: www.taraarms.com
GPS: 52.803422, -6.734792
A family-run Bar and Grill who pride themselves on offering good
food at great quality prices. Home cooking of traditional Irish dishes
is available as well as an extensive menu of other European and food
choices. Food from 9 a.m. until 10 p.m. seven days per week, opening for
breakfast. Families are well catered for with childrens’ menus and high
chairs supplied. Live music every weekend. Live bands every Saturday
Night and every Bank Holiday Sunday night. Six screens showing all
sporting events.
Teach Dolmain
76 Tullow Street,
Carlow Town
t: 059–9130911
GPS: 52.836078, -6.925447
Teach Dolmain has built up a firm reputation for great food and
fantastic service in a relaxed setting. Food is served from 9.30 a.m.
for the breakfast and coffee menu, lunch is served from 12 – 3 p.m.
while an extensive evening, à la carte and value menu is available from
3 – 9.30 p.m. daily. Join us every ursday night for our famous
traditional Irish music session and live ballad group. Friday, Saturday
and Sunday nights also has entertainment in the form of DJs and live
bands. Visitors are guaranteed a warm and friendly Céad Míle Fáilte.
T.D. Molloy’s
Seven Oaks Hotel
Athy Road
Carlow Town
t: 059–9131308
w: www.sevenoakshotel.com
GPS: 52.841072, -6.929392
TD Molloy’s Restaurant offers intimate surroundings in which to
enjoy the very best of Irish and international cuisine. Our Executive
Head Chef and his highly trained team carefully plan menus to suit the
needs and requirements of guests using only the finest and freshest local
produce. Value menus Monday – ursday.
e Oaks Bar has a superb bar lunch and the popular Nite Bites bar
menu every evening. No bookings required.
VISUAL and George Bernard Shaw eatre Early Bird Menu
6 – 7.30 p.m. Two courses €20, three courses €25 with glass of wine.
The Weeping Thaiger,
Mill Lane, Castle Hill,
Carlow Town t: 059-9137000
w: www.weepingthaiger.ie
www.facebook.com/weepingthaiger
GPS: 52.83674, -6.936349
Delicious and exotic ai cuisine prepared by highly skilled ai chefs
using only the finest, freshest ingredients available. A subtle blend of
flavours are mixed together to produce a distinctive and delightful taste.
A new dine-in menu has been introduced with the majority of main
courses including side dishes only €10 and appetisers €5.
cafés/bistros
Country Kitchen Restaurant
Haddens Centre
Carlow Town
t: 059–9140613
GPS: 52.835366, -6.931035
A wide range of food from an extensive salad bar including home
cooked meats, scones and sandwiches, along with a fresh fruit smoothie
bar. Breakfast and hot lunch available daily. Fresh home baking is a
hallmark of this premises with all food cooked on site. Guests can
also dine in the outdoor terrace and all food is available for take-away.
Celebrating 28 years in business in Carlow with daily specials.
McDonald’s Fast Food Restaurant
Kennedy Avenue, Carlow Town
t: 059–9135460
GPS: 52.8349944, -6.9297875
Open 7 a.m. – 10.30 a.m. for breakfast. Main menu 10.30 a.m. –
11 p.m. Late night opening on Saturday until 3 a.m. Open 7 days per
week.
45
cafés/bistros
cafés/bistros
The Lazy River Café
Unit 1, Castleview
Graiguecullen
Carlow Town
t: 059–9173588
Open daily Monday – Friday
8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday and Bank
Holidays 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
GPS: 52.836774, -6.938535
e newly renovated Lazy River Café set on the banks of the
River Barrow specialises in delicious and reasonably priced cuisine,
including in-house specialities and daily specials. Traditional home
baking is a signature of this beautifully appointed café, and cuisine
including home-made scones, muffins, fresh breads, desserts, wraps
and full dinners are served in a relaxed and welcoming setting. All
outdoor catering from birthdays to Communions, Confirmations
and outdoor barbecues – contact David. Takeaway service available
with free lunchtime deliveries over €15. New grab and go fridge
on site. Free Wi-fi for all customers. Occasion cakes and coffees a
speciality.
The Mullicháin Café
The Quay
St. Mullins
Co. Carlow
t: 051–424440
w: www.oldgrainstorecottages.ie
GPS: 52.4877, -6.92902
e Mullicháin Café is part of the tastefully restored old grain
store buildings that in times gone by were used by the Grand
Canal Company and then Odlums, the millers. Enjoy a coffee
and a scone or glass of wine and smoked salmon/brown bread as
you look out the window at the changing tide. Opening hours: 11
a.m. – 6 p.m., weekends in February and daily March – October.
Closed Monday except on Bank Holidays, closed on Tuesday
instead.
Supermac’s Family Restaurant
and Papa John’s Pizza
Burrin Street, Carlow
t: 059–9130444
w: www.supermacs.ie or
www.papajohns.ie
GPS: 52.836397, -6.932142
Supermac’s offer a unique experience of a national brand
providing quality products. For clubs, societies or families
seeking to host a large party or event Supermacs set up facilities
ranging from a small gazebo to a full mobile unit. Supermac’s
cater for corporate events and offer a wide range of finger foods
including the Papa John range of pizzas that will satisfy all your
guests.
The Walled Garden Café
Altamont Walled Garden
Altamont Gardens
Ballon
Co. Carlow
t: 086/070 6262
w: theforgekilbride.com
f: facebook/theforgekilbride
GPS: 52.735129, -6.720966
Tucked away in the far corner of the old walled garden at
Altamont this new café provides comfort and refreshment in
a beautiful and unusual setting. Offering fresh roasted coffees,
speciality teas, homemade cake, and simple, savoury fare, the café
adds an extra dimension to the garden experience. e café is an
off-shoot of the nearby Forge Restaurant and tour groups can be
catered for by arrangement. Everybody is made feel welcome and
there is full wheelchair accessibility.
Tea Rooms at Rathvinden House
Rathvinden House
Leighlinbridge
Co. Carlow
059-9721116/085-1479236
w: www.rathvindenhouse.com
Step back in time and join us at e Coach House Tea Rooms
in the Stable Yard of the beautiful period Rathvinden House
for something a little different! Once known as Ravindon,
home to Lady Sarah Sempill Roberts in the 1800s and later
the McClintock family at the beginning of the 1900s. Quaint
tearooms specialising in home produce, brunch and light lunches.
e emphasis is on fresh, simple home grown and local dishes at
reasonable prices of high quality and taste, using favourite family
recipes. Expect old-fashioned tablecloths, antique chinaware and
old fashioned cooking on the Aga. Opening June 2014.
OPENING HOURS: Open May–September daily 10.30 a.m. –
5.30 p.m. February to May weekends only 10.30 a.m. – 5.30 p.m.
Opening
June
2014
WEEKLY MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE
AD = Adult Dancing
DJ = Disc Jockey
T = Traditional
M = Music in Bar
L = Live Music
Q = Quiz
MONDAY
(T)
e Seven Oaks Hotel, Athy Road, Carlow
t: 059–9131308
(Q)
Talbot Hotel, Portlaoise Road, Carlow
t: 059–9153000
(T)
Brennan’s, Maryborough Street, Carlow
t: 059–9137896
46
TUESDAY
(AD) e Seven Oaks Hotel, Athy Road, Carlow
t: 059–9131308
(L)
Talbot Hotel, Portlaoise Road, Carlow t: 059–9153000
WEDNESDAY
(DJ)
e Foundry, Dinn Rí, Tullow Street, Carlow
t: 059–9130334 (College term only)
(L)
Tully’s Bar, Tullow Street, Carlow T: 059–9131862
pubs and entertainment guide
WEEKLY MUSICAL ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE continued
AD = Adult Dancing
DJ = Disc Jockey
T = Traditional
M = Music in Bar
L = Live Music
Q = Quiz
THURSDAY
(DJ)
e Barracks, Tullow Street, Carlow t: 059–9141781
(L)
Reddy’s Bar & Restaurant, Tullow Street, Carlow
t: 059–9142224
(DJ/L) Tully’s Bar, Tullow Street, Carlow t: 059–9131862
(DJ)
t: 059–9130334
(T)
Teach Bar, Teach Dolmain, Tullow Street, Carlow
t: 059–9130911
(L)
Teach Dolmain, Tullow Street, Carlow t: 059–9130911
(DJ)
Tully’s Bar, Tullow Street, Carlow T: 059–9131862
(AD)
e Woodford Dolmen Hotel, Kilkenny Road, Carlow
t: 059 – 9142002
FRIDAY
(L)
Mount Wolseley, Tullow, Co. Carlow t: 059–9180100
(DJ)
(DJ)
t: 059–9130334
(DJ)
Teach Dolmain, Tullow Street Carlow t: 059–9130911
(L)
(DJ)
Tully’s Bar, Tullow Street, Carlow t: 059–9131862
SATURDAY
(DJ/L) e Foundry Nightclub and Tower, Dinn Rí, Tullow
Street, Carlow t: 059–9130334
(L)
Mount Wolseley, Tullow, Co. Carlow t: 059–9180100
(DJ)
Teach Dolmain, Tullow Street, Carlow t: 059–9130911
(L)
t: 059–9130911
(M)
JJ’s Bar, Mill Street, Tullow Co. Carlow t: 059–9151285
(L)
(L)
Tara Arms, Church Street, Tullow t: 059–9153105
(L)
e Lord Bagenal, Main Street, Leighlinbridge, Co.
Carlow t: 059–9774000
SUNDAY
(DJ)
e Foundry Nightclub, Dinn Rí, Tullow Street, Carlow
t: 059–9130334
(L)
Reddy’s Bar & Restaurant, Tullow Street, Carlow
t: 059–9142224
(L)
(L)
t: 059–9130911
SET DANCING
MONDAY
Palatine GAA Clubhouse, Bennekerry, Co. Carlow
at 8.30 p.m. Adm. €5. t: Peter O’Neill 087–6109728
TUESDAY
Community Hall, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow
at 8 p.m. Adm. €5. t: Hilary Nic Īomhair 087–2882451
WEDNESDAY
Leighlinbridge Parish Centre, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow
at 8.15 p.m. Adm. €5. t: John Meaney 086– 8146842
THURSDAY
Behans of Tolerton, Carlow at 8.30 p.m. Adm. €5.
t: Hilary Nic Īomhair 087–2882451
O’ Shea’s Pub
Main Street, Borris, Co. Carlow
t: 059-9773106
GPS: 52.60033, -6.92452
Situated on the main street in Borris, this charming, rural pub in traditional style serves
lunch and light bar food daily offering quality local produce. An ideal spot for a
relaxing drink and a bite to eat with a lovely range of old photos and memorabilia.
JJ’s Bar, Mill Street, Tullow, Co. Carlow
t: 059-9151285
GPS: 52.802333, -6.736098
Traditional comfortable bar in the heart of Tullow Town. Warm welcome and friendly
service guaranteed. Music on selected nights at weekends.
Roberts Bar and Lounge
Myshall, Co. Carlow
t: 059-9157612
GPS: 52.685637, -6.780559
Journeys end! Set in the heart of the pretty village of Myshall, this family run,
traditional establishment offers the tourist a warm, hospitable welcome. Cosy open
fire – comfortable surroundings suitable for all kinds of functions – light lunch/snacks,
tea/coffee available – live entertainment most weekends –ceol, craic agus caint.
Tully’s Bar, 148–149 Tullow St,
Carlow. t: 059-9131862
Spacious and stylish pub in the centre of Carlow Town with a lively and welcoming
atmosphere. Lunch available from 12 – 3 p.m. DJ ursday – Saturday night.
Brennan’s Pub, Maryborough Street,
Graiguecullen, Carlow
t: 059-9137896, 087-9875263
Busy, friendly pub on the Graiguecullen side of Carlow Town. With its friendly staff
and welcoming atmosphere Brennan’s Pub, renowned for its quality pint and lively
atmosphere, has traditional music every Monday night. GPS: 52.83762, -6.938387
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