Laois Heritage Houses
Laois
About This Route
Laois preserves some of Ireland's finest country houses and their designed landscapes. This route connects grand estates, gardens, and the historic towns that served them.
Why This Route?
Laois's heritage houses are exceptional:
- Emo Court - Perfect neoclassical mansion with gardens
- Heywood Gardens - Lutyens-designed masterpiece
- Historic towns - Abbeyleix, Durrow, Stradbally
- Garden heritage - Planned landscapes and rare plants
- Accessible - Close to Dublin, rarely crowded
The Route
Starting from Portlaoise
The county town is central and well-connected.
Emo Court
The centrepiece - a magnificent neoclassical mansion:
- Designed by James Gandon (architect of Dublin's Custom House)
- Domed rotunda inspired by Rome's Pantheon
- Extensive parkland with lake
- Guided tours of house interior
- Free access to gardens and grounds
Coolbanagher Church
Nearby, also designed by Gandon - a perfect neoclassical church.
Stradbally
A estate village with:
- Steam rally (August Bank Holiday)
- Traditional character
- Access to Stradbally Hall (occasional events)
Abbeyleix
One of Ireland's finest heritage towns:
- Planned 18th-century streetscape
- De Vesci demesne (walks through parkland)
- Heritage House museum
- Carpet factory tradition
- Morrissey's pub (atmospheric Victorian interior)
Heywood Gardens
A Lutyens-designed garden attached to a now-demolished house:
- Formal terraces
- Oval garden with pavilions
- Pergola and viewing platform
- Free OPW site
Durrow
Another attractive heritage village with:
- Georgian streetscape
- Castle Durrow (now hotel)
- Book of Durrow associations
Timahoe
A detour worth taking for:
- Exceptional round tower (one of Ireland's finest)
- Romanesque doorway
- Atmospheric graveyard
Rock of Dunamase
Dramatic castle ruins on a rocky outcrop:
- Panoramic views
- Associated with Strongbow
- Free access (steep climb)
Garden Highlights
Emo Court Gardens
- 55 acres of parkland
- Lakeside walks
- Arboretum with rare trees
- Azaleas and rhododendrons
Heywood Gardens
- Formal Lutyens design
- Enclosed garden rooms
- Pergolas and terraces
- Best in summer
Historic Houses Context
Laois (then Queen's County) was planted in the 16th century. The great houses date from the Georgian era when landlord families built grand residences and "improved" their towns.
The Decline
Most Irish country houses declined or were destroyed in the 20th century. Emo survived; Heywood's house was demolished.
Conservation
OPW (Office of Public Works) maintains both properties - admission is free or low cost.
Practical Tips
- Emo Court - Allow 2+ hours for house and gardens
- Heywood - Peaceful but limited facilities
- Abbeyleix - Best for lunch; Morrissey's pub a must-see
- Rock of Dunamase - Steep but short climb
- Timahoe - Small detour but worthwhile
Recommended fuel stops along this route:
Fuel stations are available in major towns along the route.
