Nearby Attractions
Why choose just one region when you can experience them all? Ardmore Country House Kinnitty’s central location makes us the perfect base for exploring the top tourist attractions in Ireland. Here are just a few of the top picks we would recommend – all within two hours of our B&B and Self Catering Cottage.
Attractions are listed with those closest to us progressing to locations further away which can be visited in a day trip.
Top Things to do Near Kinnitty
Leap Castle
For those with a taste for the supernatural, Leap Castle is said to be the most haunted castle in Ireland. With a history of brutal battles and eerie legends, this privately owned castle offers spine-chilling tours by arrangement, providing a glimpse into Ireland’s darker past. Call Sean Ryan beforehand to book on +353 579131115.
Birr Castle & Gardens
Birr Castle Gardens in the Georgian town of Birr are world famous for the large selection of rare plants collected by the Earls of Ross over the last 150 years. The gardens are just a 15 minute drive from Ardmore Country House. The gardens are home to the world’s tallest box hedges, Ireland’s largest Tree House and adventure centre the Giant Telescope and Science Centre. The castle is still lived in by the Ross family and is open for guided tours on special dates between May and August. The Great Telescope was built in the 1840’s by the third earl of Ross. This Reflecting Telescope remained the largest in the world for over 70 years and is arguably the largest historic scientific instrument still working today.
Lough Boora Parklands
Tullamore Dew Distillery
Located just 27km from Kinnitty, the Tullamore Dew Distillery is the home of one of Ireland’s most famous whiskeys. Visitors can explore the rich history of this triple-distilled spirit through guided tours, interactive exhibits, and whiskey tastings. Learn about the craftsmanship behind the smooth, complex flavours of Tullamore Dew and experience the heritage of Irish whiskey in the heart of the Midlands.
Clonmacnoise Abbey
Clonmacnoise Abbey, founded in 544 AD by St. Ciarán, is one of Ireland’s most important early Christian sites. Overlooking the River Shannon, this historic monastic settlement features beautifully preserved ruins, including round towers, high crosses, and ancient churches. Once a centre of learning and pilgrimage, Clonmacnoise offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s rich spiritual and architectural heritage.
Athone
Athlone is a vibrant town less than an hour’s drive from Ardmore Country house Kinnitty straddling the River Shannon. It’s home to the 13th-century Athlone Castle, which offers insights into the town’s medieval past. The town boasts a lively arts scene, diverse dining, and excellent shopping, including the Athlone Towncentre. Its scenic riverside setting and nearby attractions including the Viking Ship tours to Clonmacnoise.
Emo Court
Once the largest country estate in Ireland Emo Court a stunning estate rich in history and natural beauty was commissioned and built by the Earls of Portarlington and designed by architect James Gandon. Amongst its inhabitants through the years were distinguished Jesuit photographer Fr Frank Browne and Irish author Benedict Kiely. Enjoy the mile long Wellingtonia Avenue, flanked by giant Sequoia trees planted in 1853, wander amon and rare birds such as bug the elegant yews and formal gardens or take a stroll along the lakeside trails. Keep an eye out for Irish red squirrels, which are native to the estate and rare birds including buzzards and egrets. The house is being carefully and expertly restored by the OPW and will have new exhibits and displays to explore. Find out more www.emocourt.ie
Rock of Dunamase
Perched dramatically on a limestone outcrop in County Laois, the Rock of Dunamase is a stunning medieval fortress with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Dating back to the 12th century, the ruins tell a tale of Viking raids, Norman conquests, and Irish resilience. Just a short drive from Kinnitty, it’s a must-visit for history lovers and those seeking panoramic landscapes.
Kilkenny
Kilkenny’s Medieval Mile is a must-see for history enthusiasts, stretching from the iconic Castle to St. Canice’s Cathedral. Along this scenic route, you’ll find treasures like the 13th-century Dominican Abbey, the 17th-century merchant’s townhouse, and the 9th-century round tower. Explore cobbled streets, historic pubs, and unique landmarks, while delving into tales of witchcraft at Kyteler’s Inn. Don’t miss the Medieval Mile Museum and Kilkenny’s Famine Experience, offering captivating insights into Ireland’s past through guided tours and exhibitions.
Rock of Cashel
Rising dramatically from a limestone outcrop in the heart of the Golden Vale, the Rock of Cashel is one of Ireland’s most iconic and historically significant sites. It boasts the finest collection of medieval architecture in the country, including a round tower, high cross, Romanesque chapel, Gothic cathedral, abbey, the Hall of the Vicars Choral, and a fifteenth-century Tower House.
Once the ancient seat of the Kings of Munster, the Rock is steeped in legend—most famously as the site where St. Patrick is said to have converted King Aenghus to Christianity. In 978, Brian Boru was crowned High King at Cashel, later making it the capital of his realm.
Galway
Galway, known as Ireland’s cultural heart, is a vibrant city where history, music, and coastal beauty come together. Wander through the bustling streets of the Latin Quarter, explore the medieval Spanish Arch, or enjoy the lively atmosphere of Eyre Square. With its stunning seaside promenade in Salthill and renowned festivals like the Galway International Arts Festival, this city offers something for every visitor.
Cliffs of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher, towering over the rugged west Clare coast, offer one of Ireland’s most stunning natural experiences. From the safe, paved pathways, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands. These cliffs have inspired generations of artists and scientists alike, while hosting major sea bird colonies. As a Special Protection Area for birds, the Cliffs of Moher are a must-see for nature lovers.
Heywood Gardens Ballinakill
Known locally as the Italian gardens Heywood Gardens in Ballinakill Co Laois completed in 1912 is the site of two historic garden types. The first is the great park created by Frederick Trench in the late 1700’s and the second the small interlocked formal gardens created by the famous architect Sir Edwin Lutyens(1869-1944) and probably landscaped by Gertrude Jekyll (1843-1932). It is one of four Gardens in this country designed by him, the others being in the War Memorial Park, Lambay Island and Howth Castle. At Heywood stroll along the lime tree-lined walk to a formal terrace overlooking the countryside and bask in the breathtaking views. Keep an eye out out for moorhens, kingfishers and other water birds from the terrace overlooking the lake, and finally visit the sunken garden where circular terraces descend to an elliptical pool
Gash Gardens
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