County Tipperary

Ireland’s pastoral midlands can go under the radar. But not Tipperary, which is rightly taking its place in the spotlight and has been named one of the world’s top destinations to visit by Lonely Planet. Come for showstopping landmarks (the Rock of Cashel), stay for local artisan produce (Cashel Blue cheese), picture-postcard pubs (Larkins) and stunning landscapes. From the Galtee Mountains to the banks of the River Shannon, adventures abound, from sunset kayaking on Lough Derg to fruit picking at The Apple Farm. All before a luxurious stay at the 5-star Cashel Palace Hotel. Award-winning Tipperary will sweep you off your feet.

Often called the High King of Irish monuments, the Rock of Cashel is a cluster of medieval buildings – including a round tower and Gothic cathedral – atop a rocky limestone outcrop. Don’t miss the 800-year-old frescoes that line the archways in the Romanesque chapel.

Not to be outdone is 13th-century Cahir Castle, a mighty stronghold on the River Suir whose movie-star looks have featured in Barry Lyndon and The Last Duel. And Ormond Castle in Carrick-on-Suir, the finest example of an Elizabethan manor house in Ireland.

Then there’s the quirky Swiss Cottage, which owes its name to its unusual alpine design. This idealised fantasy of country life from the 1800s comes complete with hand-painted wallpaper, rose-laden balconies and Venetian windows.

But not all of Tipperary's sights are above ground. Mitchelstown Cave was uncovered by chance by a worker quarrying for limestone in 1833. Today, you can take a guided tour through its vast series of underground passages and caverns. The phrase “hidden gem” was coined for such spots.

Discover more hidden gems in Ireland's Ancient East

Tipperary’s showstopping sights are nestled in similarly awe-inspiring landscapes. Take the Glen of Aherlow, a lush valley between the Galtee Mountains and the wooded ridge of Slievenamuck. This scenic region is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with walking, cycling, fishing and horse riding. Make sure to stop by the Christ the King Viewpoint at the entrance to the glen’s nature park.

Want to take to the water? You can at Lough Derg, a long and narrow body of water fringed by forest trails, mountain loops and laid-back towns such as Ballina and Nenagh. From river cruises to sunset kayaking, this pleasure lake makes a picturesque backdrop for adventures of all kinds.

Get on the water in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands

Ireland’s thoroughbred industry has deep roots in County Tipperary. Racegoers throng to racecourses at Thurles, Clonmel and Tipperary. This is also where you can find some of the biggest names in the horse racing world, including Coolmore Stud near Fethard and Ballydoyle Stables.

Visit the Fethard Horse Country Experience to learn more about County Tipperary’s thoroughbred heritage. Or mount up at Crossogue Equestrian Centre for a hack through this family-owned stud farm. Nothing beats seeing Tipperary from horseback.

Plan your own equestrian holiday in Ireland

Tipperary’s fertile farmland is at the heart of its vibrant food scene. Here, quality local produce combines with the innovation of artisan food producers to create something truly special. Discover it for yourself as you sample award-winning farmhouse cheeses such as Cashel Blue or browse the stalls at farmers’ markets in Cahir and Thurles.

Learn about the county’s orchard heritage on a tour of The Apple Farm, where more than 50 varieties of apple are grown. Or simply enjoy the tastes of Tipperary in gastropubs and restaurants around the county.

Just over Tipperary’s western border is historic Limerick city, where King John’s Castle stands tall on the banks of the River Shannon. Visit the Hunt Museum, home to over 2,000 works of art and antiquities, and don’t miss the Milk Market (Fri-Sun), a buzzy collection of food and craft stalls. Go beyond the city to explore the pretty village of Adare and the ancient stone circle at Lough Gur. 

To Tipperary’s east lie the charms of Kilkenny city, from 13th-century Kilkenny Castle to the Smithwick’s Experience, which tells the story of Ireland’s famous red ale. Kilkenny has a rich tradition of crafts, which you can discover on tours of Nicholas Mosse Pottery, Jerpoint Glass or Cushendale Woollen Mills. This is hurling country, too, making it a fine spot to see one of Ireland’s native Gaelic games.

To the south, delve into the Viking origins of Ireland’s oldest city Waterford at the Waterford Treasures museums. Tour Waterford Crystal, try a Waterford blaa (a soft bread roll unique to the area), then follow the Waterford Greenway to the natural splendour of Mount Congreve Gardens just outside the city. If you have time, explore the beautiful Copper Coast, a UNESCO Global Geopark known for its unique geology and stunning views. 

Whether you’re exploring tranquil waters in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands or discovering intriguing history in Ireland’s Ancient East, County Tipperary is an ideal base from which to discover the best of Ireland. Start planning your trip now.