Banagher: This town welcomes visitors. The variety of pubs in Banagher, allows to you can enjoy a quiet drink or follow the sound of singing and traditional music which can be heard on the street to a lively pub session.
On a warm night listen to the distinctive sound of the corncrake on Banagher Bridge or go on a Corncrake Evening organized by Bird watch Ireland during the summer.




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.

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.

Golf: There are at least five excellent golf courses within easy reach of Banagher. The closest, the 18 hole Birr Golf Course (Tel. 057 9120082) is only 8 miles away. Other courses include: Roscrea Golf Course, Tullamore Golf Club, Esker Hills Golf Course (Tel. 057 9355999), Glasson Golf and Country Club. There is a fine pitch and putt course in Banagher itself.

Cruises on the River Shannon: The Viking I takes you back 1200 years to when Viking War bands roamed and pillaged in these waters.The Clonmacnoise Cruise Stops over at the Nonastic Site for one Hour. Scheduled cruises daily from The Strand, Athlone

Equestrian Activities: Slieve Bloom and the midlands in general have a strong background in horses. There are a number of Riding Centres in the area including Kinnitty Castle Equestrian Centre and Birr Equestrian Centre. You can trek on bog lands and forest trails with wonderful views of the Slieve Bloom Mountain, Programs tailored to individuals needs.

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.