Children just love to go on a picnic, don’t they? Here are the best picnic places in Laois that are just great for heading out for an adventure and some alfresco eating with the kids.

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Emo Court Park & Gardens

Emo Court, near Emo village, Laois, was designed by the architect James Gandon in 1790 for the Earls of Portarlington and is a magnificent example of this neo-classical style. The house, which is accessible by guided tour only, is surrounded by beautiful gardens and parkland which were first laid out in the 18th century and contain formal lawns, a lake and woodland walks with many very fine trees and shrubs. The gardens are open all year and entry to the gardens is free.

There are picnic benches and toilet facilities beside main car park.

The Slieve Bloom Mountains

There are 4 great places for picnics in the Slieve Bloom Mountains:

The Cut

With fabulous views over Laois and Offaly, picnic benches on both Laois and Offaly sides of mountain. Located on the L1005 Mountrath / Clonaslee road.

Glen Monicknew Bridge

Glen Monicknew Bridge on the same road has picnic benches and grassy area beside Glen River.

Brittas Lake, Clonaslee

At Brittas Lake, Clonaslee, you’ll find picnic benches a short distance from village. Lovely secluded spot.

Glenbarrow Waterfall

At Glenbarrow Waterfall outside Rosenallis there are picnic benches at the start of the river / falls walk.

Oughaval Woods

Oughaval Woods at Stradbally on the  Stradbally/ Carlow road has a picnic site with great views over surrounding countryside.

Stradbally Lake

At Stradbally Lake on Timahoe Rd just outside Stradbally village you will find picnic benches and try fishing in the lake – fishing rods may be hired.

Dunmore Woods

Dunmore Woods on the Durrow / Abbeyleix Road has picnic benches at the entrance to Coillte walks.

Garryhinch

Picnic benches are provided at start of Coillte walk at Garryhinch, Portarlington.

Derryounce Bog Lake

You can picnic at Derryounce Bog Lake on the Portarlington/ Edenderry Rd. You will find car parking just past the railway line on the left heading out of town. (Ignore signs in centre of town or you will need a swim in the lake when you get there!)

Castletown Bridge

At Castletown Bridge there is a grassy area beside the Nore, it does get busy on sunny Sundays.

Take a look at our Summer Picnic Recipes for some inspiration for different picnic foods and pack up the picnic basket to head out for some fresh air and outdoor fun!

Over to you now. If you have a favourite picnic place in Laois, please share it in the comments below