Offaly, the King’s County of Ireland
Last Updated on October 1, 2014 by Jody Halsted
On a map you’ll find County Offaly right in the center of Ireland. Named for the kingdom of Uí Failghe, Offaly was once called King’s County.
Now County Offaly is often bypassed as tourists drive through the county’s stunning Slieve Bloom Mountains to Ireland’s west coast after arriving in Dublin. Apparently they don’t know what they are missing.
Take a Look at County Offaly, the King’s County of Ireland
The Cead Mile Failte at Ardmore Country House. Christine is a wonderful hostess and knows everything (and probably everyone!) in County Offaly.
The Slieve Bloom Mountains are filled with walking trails for every type of walker. We strolled the Nature Trail Loop near Cadamstown – well kind of- we got lost, but it made for an exciting experience!
- I heartily believe that your first meal in Ireland should be fish & chips. Add a pint of Bulmer’s and it’s perfect. This meal was in the stunning Library Bar at Kinnitty Castle .
So many scientific discoveries happened at Birr Castle. It is home to what was once the largest telescope in the world – which is incredible to see- and now hosts an incredible science museum as well as Ireland’s largest tree house.
Peat, used for fuel, was once harvested from Lough Boora. Now the parklands are a beautiful area filled with sculptures, walking trails, and even a megalithic site. Definitely a must on a fine Irish day.
Clonmacnoise was once the heart of Ireland, situated at a major crossroads. Today you’ll find two round towers, three high crosses, and numerous chapels across the grounds.
Visit Ireland Family Vacations to explore more of Ireland and follow Family Rambling on Instagram for more images from our travels.
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Sounds like a my kind of travel itinerary: cream teas, castles and lots of greenery. Beautiful images!
It really is a lovely county to visit. And so often overlooked- another place you’ll feel like you have to yourself.
I’m with Reeta! This looks wonderful, and I TOTALLY agree on fish + chips + Bulmers! Or Guinness of course!
It’s always my first meal when I get to Ireland. That, and lots of yummy brown bread!
I have to say I’m guilty of bypassing Offaly on my travels to the coastal areas! Again something I have to fix while in Ireland!! 🙂
Jody,
Those scones and tea look divine. Ireland is beautiful. What a great destination.