Portlaoise, the county town of Laois, is situated amid rolling pastures and peat bogs. Located on the banks of the river Triogue, Portlaoise enjoys views of the Slieve Bloom mountains and the Dysart Hills, inviting visitors to take a drive and experience the changing landscapes. Portlaoise also acts as a convenient base for sight- seeing throughout Ireland, since its roads link to Dublin, Limerick and Cork. The town has expanded in recent years to become a centre for shopping and nightlife, with a wide range of stores, restaurants, pubs (many with live music sessions) and entertainments at the Dunamaise Arts Centre, including theatre, film, art, music, opera and dance. Soberingly, the town is also known for its two jails, most famously Portlaoise Prison, which housed IRA members during the Troubles. There's much to see in the surrounding area. The imposing Rock Of Dunamase, crowned by 12th Century castle ruins, is a must. Worth visiting too are Emo Court, a Georgian country house with wonderful grounds and lakeside walks, the Irish Steam Preservation Society at Stradbally, which also hosts paintballing, riding stables and an annual music festival, the old lace-making town of Mountmellick, the Abbeyleix museum and the inspiring Gash's Gardens near Castletown.
Places to Stay near Portlaoise
Blackthorn Farm (110.55 miles)
Blackthorn farm is located in an area of outstanding natural beauty, and most rooms have fantastic views. We are minutes from the ferry terminal in Holyhead for sailings to Ireland. ... More
Boathouse Hotel (111.28 miles)
Just 4 minutes from Holyhead's ferry port and with fabulous views overlooking the marina, the Boathouse Hotel offers en suite accommodation, fresh food, a bar and free parking. On the edge of ... More
Holyhead Lodge (111.67 miles)
Witchingham B&B (111.68 miles)
Travelodge Holyhead (111.80 miles)
There are loads of reasons our customers choose to stay at Travelodge. Our great value clean and comfortable rooms with en-suite provide everything needed for a good night's sleep and are close to where people ... More | visit website
Wavecrest (111.80 miles)
Ideally located 100 yards from the beach yet just only 3 minutes from the ferry/rail terminal and 2 minutes walk into the town centre for pubs and eating places. All rooms at ... More
Trearddur Bay Hotel (112.02 miles)
Sunnyside Holiday Cottage (113.58 miles)
Sunnyside provides excellent accommodation on 2/3 floors for familes and groups wishing to stay in the popular village of Four Mile Bridge, near Trearddur Bay and Rhoscolyn and their sandy ... More
Woodlands Hall Hotel (114.47 miles)
The Woodlands Hall Hotel, situated on the idyllic ... More | visit website
Gwyndy (114.74 miles)
Click here to book this cottage with Hoseasons
Just a short stroll from a sandy beach, this modern, comfortably furnished single storey property makes an ideal base for summer seaside holidays and winter escapes. Situated ... More
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