Tullamore
The Grand Canal made this town, and the harbour, locks and towpath still run through its centre. Tullamore is the county town of County Offaly.
Best sites to see in Tullamore
The Grand Canal and Tullamore Harbour
Tullamore grew up as a canal town, and the Grand Canal still runs through it with a harbour, locks and towpath walks. It remains the best way to understand the town's layout and trading past.
Charleville Castle and Forest
Just outside Tullamore, Charleville Castle is a Gothic Revival mansion set in old oak woodland beside the River Clodiagh. The surrounding forest is noted for its mature trees, including the ancient King Oak.
Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery and Visitor Experience
Tullamore is the home town of Tullamore D.E.W. Irish whiskey, and its distillery and visitor facilities on the edge of town tell the story of whiskey making here. Check in advance what tours are running.
O'Connor Square and the Town Centre
The planned streets and squares of the centre reflect Tullamore's growth as a market and canal town. O'Connor Square and Bridge Street are the natural starting points for a stroll.
Where to stand, and when
- The Grand Canal harbour and towpath in Tullamore: Early morning gives calm water, reflections of moored boats and quiet towpaths.
- Charleville Castle through its oak woodland: Late afternoon light through the trees suits the Gothic facade; autumn colour is especially photogenic.
- O'Connor Square and the town's stone buildings: Shoot in the morning before the square fills with parked cars and shoppers.
Tullamore through history
In 1785 a large fire, famously started after a hot-air balloon came down in the town, destroyed many houses in Tullamore and led to much rebuilding.
The Grand Canal reached Tullamore in the late 18th century, making it an important inland port and trading town.
Tullamore became the county town of County Offaly and is long associated with whiskey distilling, the origin of the Tullamore D.E.W. brand.
Charleville Castle outside the town was built in the early 19th century in Gothic Revival style for the Charleville estate.
Practical tips
- The canal towpath gives flat, easy walking straight from the town centre, suitable for a short stroll or a longer linear walk.
- Charleville is outside the central streets, so treat it as a short drive and check access and event arrangements before you go.
- Distillery tours are popular and run to set times, so book ahead rather than turning up and hoping for a place.
What's on
No anchor festival is based here, but the Irish year is full: next up nationally is TradFest (20–24 Jan 2027, Temple Bar, Dublin). See the full events calendar