Things To Do
in Tullamore

Tullamore is a charming town located in County Offaly, Ireland, known for its rich heritage and vibrant community. It is famous for its whiskey production, particularly the renowned Tullamore D.E.W. distillery. Nestled in the heart of the Irish midlands, Tullamore boasts beautiful parks, historical landmarks, and welcoming locals.

The town serves as a perfect base for exploring the scenic landscapes and cultural treasures of the surrounding region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Tullamore
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tullamore D.E.W. Visitor Centre for a whiskey tasting tour. Learn about the distillation process and the history of this iconic brand.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, head to Charleville Forest Castle, a stunning Gothic structure surrounded by beautiful woodlands, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Irish pub, followed by live music to experience the local nightlife.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a walk in Lough Boora Parklands, where you can enjoy the picturesque landscape and unique sculptures.

afternoon
:

Visit the Tullamore Court Hotel for a delightful afternoon tea. Then explore the local shops and art galleries in the town centre.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a fine dining experience at a local restaurant, followed by a night out at one of Tullamore's lively pubs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Cup of Coffee$3-$5
🍺Pint of Beer$5-$7
🏨Hotel per Night$100-$200
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2-$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities
  • Limited public transportation options
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • Smaller town with fewer nightlife choices compared to larger cities
  • "Dia dhuit" - Hello
  • "Go raibh maith agat" - Thank you
  • "Le do thoil" - Please
  • "Conas atá tú?" - How are you?
  • "Slán" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Tullamore

Visit one of these nice places.

Charleville Forest Castle

This picturesque Gothic castle provides stunning backdrops for photography, especially during golden hour.

Lough Boora Parklands

The parklands offer unique sculptures and natural beauty, perfect for capturing the essence of Irish landscapes.

Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery

The distillery’s historic architecture and lush surroundings make for great photographs, especially with a whiskey glass in hand.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tullamore

Tullamore is a haven for food lovers, offering a delightful mix of traditional Irish cuisine and innovative culinary experiences.

Tullamore Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Irish Stew

A hearty dish made with lamb or beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, often enjoyed on cold days.

Must-Try!

Boxty

A traditional Irish potato pancake, served with various fillings or as a side dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tullamore Farmers' Market

Held every Saturday, this market offers fresh local produce, handmade goods, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tullamore experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rainfall is common throughout the year, so it's advisable to have an umbrella or raincoat handy. Overall, expect changeable weather, so layers are recommended.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Irish people value personal space; avoid standing too close during conversations.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, especially for formal events or dining arrangements.

Greeting

A firm handshake and eye contact are common when meeting someone for the first time.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tullamore is generally a safe town for visitors, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by calling 112 or 999, and there are local hospitals and clinics available for medical needs.

Tipping in Tullamore

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% at restaurants if service is not included, and small tips are appreciated by taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and greenery, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm temperatures and long days make it perfect for exploring parks and participating in outdoor events.

Autumn

Enjoy beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures, great for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold and wet, with occasional frost; a cozy time to enjoy indoor attractions like distilleries and pubs.

Nightlife Guide

Tullamore at Night

Tullamore's nightlife is vibrant and welcoming, with a mix of traditional pubs featuring live music and modern bars. Visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment options, from folk music sessions to DJ nights. The locals are friendly, making it easy to strike up a conversation and immerse yourself in the community spirit. Popular spots include pubs like The Cross Keys and The Bridge House Hotel, known for their lively atmosphere and diverse drink selections.

Hiking in Tullamore

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Slieve Bloom Mountains

Located approximately 30 km from Tullamore, these mountains offer several trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, with breathtaking views.

Lough Boora Parklands

The parklands provide a network of trails that are perfect for both walking and cycling, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Airports

How to reach Tullamore by plane.

Shannon Airport

Located about 140 km away, Shannon Airport is the nearest major airport, offering both international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tullamore is a walkable town, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance of each other. The town center is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are designated pedestrian crossings, allowing visitors to navigate safely.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

An increasing number of young professionals are moving to Tullamore, attracted by job opportunities and a lower cost of living compared to larger cities.

Retirees

Tullamore is also home to a significant number of retirees who enjoy the peaceful lifestyle and community spirit.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Gaelic Football

A traditional Irish sport that combines elements of soccer and rugby, very popular in Tullamore and throughout Ireland.

Hurling

An ancient Irish team sport played with a wooden stick and ball, known for its speed and skill.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tullamore is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or on foot. Public transportation includes local buses that connect Tullamore to nearby towns and cities. However, it is advisable to check schedules ahead of time, as services can be limited, especially on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tullamore.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask staff for specific preparations.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available at various eateries, but confirm with staff to ensure safe dining.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Tullamore is adequate, with local clinics and a hospital providing medical services. The Tullamore Regional Hospital is well-regarded and equipped to handle emergencies. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Ireland

Read more in our Ireland 2025 Travel Guide.

Ireland Travel Guide