Sightseeing in the Heart of Ireland

Simply click on each of the Days to read full details of the suggested itinerary.

These itineraries are designed for a leisurely day's drive from your base in Ardmore House

Day 1

Following Breakfast at Ardmore House

Leap Castle
This unique castle situated on the R421 between Kinnitty and Roscrea is reputedly the most haunted castle in Ireland It stands on a vast ancient rock guarding a strategic pass through the wild Slieve Bloom mountains It is one of the family seats of the Clan O Carroll who were the last clan to surrender to the British in the 17th century. In 1559 Sir Charles Carroll, the last ruling chieftain hired a force of MacMahon of Monaghan as mercenaries against the rebel Earl of Tyrone. Either fearing treachery, or unwilling to pay them their dues, he got them drunk at a lavish feast and had them massacred in their sleep.
Leap Castle is now the home of Sean Ryan the the well know whistle player.

Roscrea Castle
Damer House which stands within the walls of Roscrea Castle houses in important heritage collection providing glimpses of Roscrea's history Open April to October 10am to 6pm. Open weekends Sat/Sun 9.30am to 4.30pm Winter period

Birr Castle Gardens Telescope and Historic Science Centre
See the Giant telescope built by the third Earl of Rosse in the 1840's which was the largest telescope in the world for 70 years Visit the Historic Science Centre which features the many pioneering achievements of the Parsons family and of other great scientists in the field of astronomy, photography horticulture and engineering. Walk around the splendid gardens with thousands of rare trees and plants collected from all over the world.

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