Counties in Focus!

The beautiful landscape has inspired writers and artists such as poet Patrick Kavanagh and playwright Eugene McCabe, both of whom called Monaghan home. This county also boasts history and craft and is home to several Bronze Age sites, the historic CastleLeslie and an ancient craft of lace-making called Carrickmacross Lace, which was famously used to adorn the late Princess Diana’s wedding dress. Were your ancestors from County Monaghan?

We've arrived at CountyOffaly!
This historic gem at the heart of Ireland’s Ancient East is home to ancient wonders, including the 6th-century monastic site of Clonmacnoise, Clarabog, which has been some 10,000 years in the making, and the LeviathanTelescope at Birr Castle, which was used to observe certain galaxies for the first time in history!

Next up we have County Roscommon! This county is the place where big names begin, with Ireland’s first president Douglas Hyde and actor Chris O’Dowd having been born here. If you are looking for Ireland under the radar, Roscommon is the ideal destination –though it has no coastline, Roscommon is three-quarters bounded by water, thanks to the beautifully tranquil Lough Ree and Lough Key, which is home to the incredible Lough Key Forest Park, one of the 32 islands of the lake!

Next up in our County in Focus series, we have County Sligo!
This literary county was the inspiration for much of WB Yeats’ poetry, and with a visit to this coastal beauty, it is easy to see why. With dramatic scenery, picturesque villages, and legendary waves that draw surfers from around the world, Sligo is a wordsmith’s playground.

We arrive at County Tipperary! This song may be well known from the tune “It’s a long way to Tipperary,” but it certainly doesn’t take as long to get to this historic county anymore! Home to heritage delights such as the Rock of Cashel and Ormond Castle, as well as the lush valleys of Tipperary’s Golden Vale, this county has hidden treasures around any corner.

Up next in our County in Focus series, we head back up north to County Tyrone!
The largest county in Northern Ireland, Tyrone is a scenic wonder. The stunning Sperrin Mountains dominate the landscape, and it's packed with historical wonders such as the Beaghmore stone circle. The vibrant town of Omagh is home to the Ulster American Folk Park, where you can hear the stories of emigration from Ireland during the18th and 19th centuries.

Up next we have historical County Waterford! Home to the stunning Copper Coast, Ireland’s oldest city (founded by the Vikings), culinary specialities such as Waterford Blaa and the iconic Waterford crystal, there is so much to explore in this ancient area. 

we arrive at Westmeath!
This landlocked county may not have the coast, but it makes up for this with an abundance of sparkling lakes that hold tales of fables and folklore. And the tales continue with visits to Westmeath’s many medieval marvels and historic houses.

Hi Elodie,

Thank you for sharing the information about the vast variety of thing to see and do in Ireland, county by county. It is an excellent series!  Is County Derry/Londonderry still to follow?  

Regards,
Anne

It is indeed, Anne. 

Not long to wait now and don't hesitate to add anything you feel could be useful for our members.
We always appreciate your help! 😉