Children love a good picnic, and Laois has some lovely spots to spread out a blanket, unpack the sandwiches and let everyone run off some energy afterwards. Here are some of the best picnic places in Laois for families, whether you’re after parkland, mountain views, a lake or a quiet riverside spot.
Emo Court Park & Gardens
Emo Court, near Emo village, was designed by the architect James Gandon in 1790 for the Earls of Portarlington and is a beautiful example of neo-classical style. The house is accessible by guided tour only, but the surrounding gardens and parkland were first laid out in the 18th century and include formal lawns, a lake, woodland walks and many fine old trees and shrubs. The gardens are open all year and entry is free.
There are picnic benches and toilet facilities beside the main car park.
The Slieve Bloom Mountains
There are four great spots for picnics in the Slieve Bloom Mountains:
The Cut
Fabulous views over Laois and Offaly, with picnic benches on both the Laois and Offaly sides of the mountain. Located on the L1005 Mountrath/Clonaslee road.
Glen Monicknew Bridge
On the same road, Glen Monicknew Bridge has picnic benches and a grassy area beside the Glen River.
Brittas Lake, Clonaslee
A short distance from Clonaslee village, Brittas Lake has picnic benches in a lovely, secluded spot.
Glenbarrow Waterfall
Outside Rosenallis, Glenbarrow Waterfall has 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 the surrounding countryside.
Stradbally Lake
On the Timahoe Road just outside Stradbally village, Stradbally Lake has picnic benches, and you can try your hand at fishing on the lake.
Dunmore Woods
Dunmore Woods, on the Durrow/Abbeyleix Road, has picnic benches at the entrance to the Coillte walks.
Garryhinch
Picnic benches are provided at the start of the Coillte walk at Garryhinch, Portarlington.
Derryounce Bog Lake
You can picnic at Derryounce Bog Lake on the Portarlington/Edenderry Road. Car parking is just past the railway line on the left as you head out of town — ignore any signs in the town centre, or you’ll end up needing a swim in the lake to find it!
Castletown Bridge
At Castletown Bridge there’s a grassy area beside the River Nore. It’s a popular spot, so expect it to get busy on sunny Sundays.
If you’re planning your outing, take a look at our picnic recipe ideas for some inspiration on what to pack, then load up the picnic basket and head out for some fresh air and outdoor fun.
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Have a favourite picnic spot in Laois that’s not on this list? Let us know in the comments below.
