SUGGESTIONS FOR DAY TRIPS FROM THE ASHTREE COTTAGE

Cruises on the River Shannon:' The Shannon Queen' sails on the Shannon from Banagher twice weekly in the Summer.

Viking Tours Ltd has a Viking Longship which has a capacity of 71 passengers. It is based in Athlone town centre. With the strong Viking connection to Clonmacnoise, arrival or departure aboard a Viking Ship adds immeasurably to the visit.
During the cruise to Lough Ree and its islands there is live commentary with tales of Viking treasure and of many battles fought.

Birr Equestrian Centre: Trek on boglands and forest trails with wonderful views of the Slieve Bloom Mountain, Treks tailored to individuals needs.

Birr Castle Demesne:Features Irelands Historic Science Centre. In the Grounds is the Great Telescope built by the Earl of Rosse in the 1840's and the most wonderful gardens you will want to visit.

Ancient Monastic Site:Clonmacnoise was founded in 545AD by St Ciaran. The monastic ruins consists of a cathedral, two round towers, 8 churches and 3 high crosses. There is also the remains of a 13th century castle. There is a modern interpretive centre and tourist office on the site.

Charleville Castle, Tullamore: Charleville is Ireland's finest gothic revival castle. It is considered to be Francis Johnston's masterpiece, he also designed the G.P.O in Dublin. The castle was built between 1798 and 1810. The massive dining room was designed by Sir William Morris.

Tullamore Dew Heritage Centre: Be sure to stop off at Tullamore  and enjoy the heritage tour on the site of the original Tullamore Dew Distillery. It will take you through life in a small Irish town from the early 1800s onwards as well as showing how whiskey is made. You will end the tour with a complimentary glass of Tullamore Dew or Irish Mist Irish whiskey liqueur.

Rock of Cashel (Tipperary) A spectacular group of Medieval buildings set on an outcrop of limestone in the Golden Vale including the 12th century round tower, High Cross and Romanesque Chapel, 13th century Gothic cathedral, 15th century Castle and the restored Hall of the Vicars Choral. Attractions include an audio-visual show and exhibitions.
Include here nearby Holy Cross Abbey. See the beautifully restored chapels and cloister, the eye-catching fleur-de-lis symbols carved on the old stone pillars and the medieval fresco

Bunratty Castle, was built in the 15th century by the Earl of Thomond .He was famous for his hospitality. Following this tradition of hospitality, the world renowned Bunratty Medieval Banquet is held twice nightly throughout the year.
Bunratty Folk Park, recreates rural and urban life in 19th century Victorian Ireland.

Galway Bay

Galway City: The top tourist destination in the West of Ireland. A seaside resort for all seasons. It has a treasure trove of options for the visitor. Historic and scenic sites abound alongside the modern and colourful attractions Leisure Land, Salthill, Galway is a unique entertainment and health and fitness facility situated on Ireland's longest seaside promenade.

Email

Marian and John McDonald,
Lusmagh, Banagher,
Co. Offaly, Ireland
Phone:++353 57 9151509

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