The Irish Midlands

Ireland's central plain makes up what is known as the midlands. The seven counties which comprise it (Laois, Leitrim, Longford, Offaly, Roscommon, Tipperary, and Westmeath) are home to many of Ireland's lesser known attractions. Much of Ireland's renowned bogland is located in the Midlands, such as the Bog of Allen.

The early Christian monastic site at Clonmacnoise, on the banks of the River Shannon is among the most important in Ireland. The countryside of the Midlands is as varied as the attractions here from vast plains to the Glens of County Leitrim. Cahir Castle, in County Tipperary, is one of the largest and best preserved castles in Ireland.

County Westmeath is known for its rivers and lakes which include the River Shannon which flows through the town of Athlone. Lockes Distillery is one of the few remaining pot distilleries which remains in Ireland today and here you may sample its whiskey.

Strokestown Park House And Famine Museum in County Roscommon relates to the visitor two different stories, that of the rich and that of the Great Famine.

• Laois
• Leitrim
• Longford
• Offaly
• Roscommon
• Tipperary
• Westmeath