Top 9 Hidden Gems Things to do in County Offaly, Province of Leinster

Esker Hills, Tullamore, Co. Offaly is regarded as one of Ireland's leading inland golf courses. It is a challenging championship golf course where no two holes are remotely alike. It is noted for its distinct links feel, superb sand-based greens, all-year playability and warm welcome.Awarded "Irelands Bestest Hidden Gem" in Leinster at The Golfers Guide To Ireland Awards 2012.

Charleville Castle, the Masterpiece of Francis Johnston, once derelict, vacant, closed-off and decaying, has been rescued from near ruin by volunteers of the Charleville Castle Community. Built originally as a dramatic Power Center in the Midlands - a most important Irish symbol of the Union with Great Britain 1801 - it is a project of the Peace Process - authenticate, intact and "of the people". The long avenue to the forecourt is now fully open - some areas require supervised access or guides [set donation] - Volunteers rotate on duty 24/7 - 365 days a year - sharing actively with the public. It is famous for its ghosts stories and unique architecture - it is not a state-funded project and depends entirely on volunteers and supporters - the local community and many thousands more openly express love and support for the Castle. Come visit - we hope you will get a real feeling of what it is to keep a big Castle like this alive - hopefully your visit can be enhanced by a guided tour.

Lough Boora Discovery Park is made up of more than 2,000 hectares of cutaway boglands have been rehabilitated to provide a world class resource of scale which is open access for people to enjoy 365 days a year. It is a haven of flora and fauna for nature lovers, the Sculpture Park provides a platform for international artists to use the park as inspiration for their works of art while off-road cycling and walking tracks provide families with a safe recreational area to enjoy the tranquillity and vastness of the open space. The lakes provide local angling clubs with the perfect location for fishing. The park provides local employment and a venue for clubs and groups to host their events alongside visitor centre organised events such as family days.

Luker's Bar, Restaurant & live music venue, a family run bar holds a mix of the old and new!The old bar dates back to the 1800's,one of Irelands best kept secrets. There are very few genuine authentic pubs like it left in Ireland. Walk through the old heritage bar with real Irish antiques. Enter a beautiful cozy back room with an open hearth Victorian fireplace dating back the the 1800s.Excellent food to be savoured while enjoying the stunning view (The Steak is a Must!) Sit down and enjoy an Irish ballad performed by whomever happens by to play that night. Banjo, guitar, mandolin and fiddle.Excellent Live music up to 6 nights a week during the summer season with some of the best bands and musicians Ireland has to offer! You have to come if you are in the vicinity of Shannonbridge and introduce yourself to the friendly pub owner and have a pint in an authentic Irish bar. Luker's also has a 'new' bar which boasts of a beer garden over looking the beautiful river Shannon. Be sure of a great pint of Guinness and a friendlily welcome when visiting this step back into the old Ireland. Recently renovated offering a fabulous panoramic views of the River through the 'Glass Wall' type gable front, only seen to be believed! PS be sure to ask John Joe, the owner for your personal tour of the old heritage pub adjoining!

Come check out our great range of shows. From amateur dramatics to top quality musical acts from accross the globe. Theres is something for everyone is every programme. Birr Theatre & Arts Centre acknowledges support from the Arts Council of Ireland.