The surrounding area is replete with a rich and ancient heritage. Clonmacnoise, one of the most famous historical sites in Ireland, was founded 1,500 years ago. Plundered many times by raiders during its early years it grew into one of the most important centres of learning in the country and is the resting place of the last High King of Ireland. An excellent visitors centre provides a wealth of information on this history of the site.

The Monastic Way - Click here for an alternative route through the Midlands of Ireland taking in many monastic settlements and sites of historical interest.