The original town of Abbeyleix grew up near the River Nore, on the site of an early Christian abbey. The town developed under the protection of a twelfth century Cistercian monastery. In 1562, Queen Elizabeth granted the abbey and associated lands to Thomas, Earl of Ormond. Over the next century, the village grew to contain 52 families.

The 18 hole course at Abbeyleix is fast developing a reputation as one of the best courses in the midlands. Designed by the well known Golf Architect Mel Flanigan, the 18 hole layout will prove a fair test of Golf for players of all categories. The old 9 hole course was recognised as one of the best 9 hole courses in the country and now having obtained an adjacent piece of rolling terraine which contains many specimen mature trees, the 18 holes ensures enjoyable golf with many scenic views.

This beautifully refurbished public library includes an art gallery offering a great opportunity for artists, photographers and sculptors to showcase their work. Visitors are welcome.

One of the oldest and most traditional tourist board quality approved self catering 4 star holiday rental cottages / holiday homes in Ireland. Said to be Ireland's oldest thatched cottage, Abbeyview Cottage has recently been renovated to the highest standard.

A jewel in the Midlands of Ireland, Laois is easily accessible to most places in the country. A county of rich contrast, Laois is a place for people who want a different experience of Ireland.

After the original monastery burned in 1234, it was rebuilt as an Augustinian priory. Today a Church of Ireland, which dates from the 1700s, stands where that priory once stood. This church appears to contain some fragments of the Augustinians’ buildings. On the east side of the doorway, visitors can see a carved limestone head that dates from the Middle Ages. The small belltower at the northwest corner of the church has the same proportions as one from the 1200s. The fine ruins on this site belong to a Dominican friary founded in 1382 by Finghan MacGillapatrick, Lord of Ossory. The church, which was conserved by the local community, contains a beautifully carved three-light window in the east wall. Monks would have entered through the doorway in the north wall, which led from the cloister. The doorway in the west wall, through which the public would have entered the church, dates from the Middle Ages. Near Aghaboe Abbey the tree-covered remains of a Norman motte can be seen. The Normans would have built a wooden tower on top of this steepsided mound of earth, where they could store their arms and from which they could keep a lookout for potential attackers.

Experience the best of country living in this beautiful spacious home in the Slieve Bloom Mountains. One mile from the picturesque village of Clonaslee. Thriving towns of Tullamore and Portlaoise closeby. House features local stone handcrafted fireplace and patio, and all mod cons. An ideal peaceful retreat with walking and angling nearby and a central touring base. Solid fuel provided free.

The Arlington Restaurant is located just off the spectacular foyer and lounge. The restaurant features a modern European/International cuisine style of menu with classic dishes to please all. The striking interior design of this 90 seater restaurant is distinguished by its elegant interior. 5 Course set menu for €55 per person. Sample menus available to view from the link below:

The House was purpose built as a Coaching Inn by Lord Ashbrook of Durrow in 1777 and was meticulously restored by the Murphy family in 2005. There are 10 beautifully appointed guest bedrooms and it is 5 minutes walking distance from Castle Durrow.While the front of the house faces onto the main road, the rear has a beautiful sweeping lawn which extends down to the river Erkina. This beautiful venue has everything – a central location, it is easily accessible, it is a wonderful historical house which is stunningly decorated, there is a fabulous restaurant and facilities for private functions.

Auctioning, valuing and restoring is core business for the Ashgrove Group. If you have a keen eye for antiques, you will discover a treasure trove of items under the hammer such as fine furniture, artwork, jewellery, rare books and much more.

Ireland’s fastest growing boutique festival BARE in the Woods is set to expand in 2017, evolving into a three-day event, bursting at the seams with new features at one of this country’s most amazing festival sites. B.A.R.E in the Woods 2016 takes places on 11 June.

Ballaghmore Lake is a privately owned 3.5 acre lake situated within a pastoral setting with trees, shrubs and soft vegetation on its shoreline. It is located on the N7 at Ballaghmore, 6km east of Roscrea and 7km west of Borris-in-Ossory. It presently holds excellent stocks of carp, rudd, perch, pike and tench. There are also stocks of eels and trout present.