Electric Picnic
27–29 Aug 2027 · Stradbally, Co. Laois
Ireland's biggest music and arts weekend, in the parkland of Stradbally Hall.
Portlaoise
Most people pass through, but the Rock of Dunamase stands just east of town with the whole midlands laid out from its walls. Portlaoise is the county town of County Laois, begun as a fortified settlement in the 1550s.
Best sites to see in Portlaoise
Rock of Dunamase
The ruined medieval castle on a fortified rock just east of Portlaoise, with open views across the midlands from its walls.
Emo Court
A neoclassical mansion near Emo, north-east of Portlaoise, designed by James Gandon in the 18th century and set in parkland with a lake.
People's Park and the River Triogue walk
The town park on the River Triogue in the centre of Portlaoise, with a lake, playground and riverside paths.
Timahoe Round Tower
A well-preserved 12th-century round tower with a carved Romanesque doorway in the village of Timahoe, south of Portlaoise.
Where to stand, and when
- Rock of Dunamase summit: Sunrise or sunset gives the widest views over the Laois countryside from the ruined walls.
- Emo Court from across its lake: Calm mornings give reflections of the mansion's portico in the lake.
- People's Park lake: Early morning light suits the lake and tree-lined paths in the town centre.
Portlaoise through history
Portlaoise began in the 1550s as a fortified settlement under Queen Mary I, when the town was called Maryborough and Laois was known as Queen's County.
The town took its present name, Portlaoise, meaning the fort of Laois, in the 1920s.
The Rock of Dunamase was an early Christian and later Norman stronghold; its castle ruins date mainly from the medieval period.
Portlaoise is the county town of County Laois in the Irish midlands.
Practical tips
- Portlaoise station is on the main Dublin to Cork and Limerick rail lines, making the town an easy rail day trip.
- The Rock of Dunamase is a free, open site with uneven ground and no facilities, so wear sturdy footwear.
- Emo Court's parkland and gardens are free to visit, while house tours are seasonal; check OPW opening times before going.