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Explore Nearby

Ireland's hidden heartlands logo

Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands is a tranquil and unspoiled region that invites you to slow down and connect with nature. This enchanting part of the country offers peaceful rivers, gentle streams, and lush forests perfect for kayaking, walking, and exploring. Discover scenic trails that wind through magical woodlands, expansive boglands, rolling valleys, and majestic mountains.

The Midlands of Ireland, supported by the EU Just Transition Fund and Fáilte Ireland, is a territory dedicated to promoting regenerative tourism, helping local communities affected by the shift to a climate-neutral economy. This area is thriving with sustainable tourism development, thanks to numerous innovative initiatives and tourism projects. Visitors will enjoy the benefits of a diversified regional economy, the preservation of stunning natural habitats and biodiversity, and local communities offering a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.

There are many nearby attractions to Fore Distillery so you can make the most of your trip. Some places to explore nearby include:

St. Féichín's walking trail at Fore Abbey

Fore Abbey & Walking trails

Home to the 7th century ruins and Seven Wonders of Fore, Fore Village & abbey is a magical and historical place for exploration. Explore the inside of Fore Abbey, surrounding structures and enjoy the Nancy Nellie walkway as well as local coffee shop & pubs in the area.
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Tullynally Castle & Gardens

Home to the Pakenham family for over 350 years, Tullynally is a magnificent tourist attraction less than 10 minutes from Fore Distillery. From April to September the Castle and gardens are open to the public for tours & to walk around. The castle also has a spectacular tearoom café.

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Tullynally Castle and Gardens, home to the Pakenham family
mullaghmeen forest trails

Mullaghmeen Forest Trails

Just less than 15 minutes from the Distillery, you can enjoy scenic walking trails in Ireland’s largest beech tree forest. Dotted with multiple trails, it makes for the perfect outdoor activity.

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Loughcrew Cairns, Megalitic Centre & Loughcrew Estate coffee shop & Gardens

Neighbouring area Loughcrew just within 20 minutes of the Distillery there is plenty to do. Loughcrew Cairn T is a moderate uphill hike with a stunning megalithic tomb and stone stuctures at the summit. On a clear day up to 18 counties are visible in within its breathtaking view. At the foot of the hike is the megalithic centre with café and camping/glamping facilities which are ideal for adventurers seeking an overnight stay in the area. The nearby Estate, Coffee Shop & Gardens are another spectacular attraction to spend the day out, take a stroll & to treat yourself!

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Loughcrew Cairn, a moderate uphill hike with a stunning megalithic tomb
Belvedere House & Gardens

Belvedere House & Gardens

Around 30 minutes from the Distillery in Mullingar is Georgian house & gardens at Belvedere that are perched on the shore of Lough Ennell. This is the perfect day out with extensive walking trails, walled gardens, kids fairy garden as well as house exhibits & coffee shop. You can also make use of Belvedere’s playground and picnic facilities just down on the Lough Ennell shore, ideal for those hot summer days!

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Tower of Kells

About 30 minutes from the Distillery & dating back to 1076AD the Tower of Kells is a historic landmark amongst the Kells settlement which previously was home to the famous ‘Book of Kells’ one of Ireland’s & the world’s most famous ornate manuscripts.

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Tower of Kells, a historic landmark amongst the Kells settlement
Spire of Lloyd

Spire of Lloyd

30 minutes from the Distillery is the Spire of Lloyd,  a remarkable inland lighthouse located in Kells. Built in 1791, it was commissioned by the first Earl of Bective, Thomas Taylour, as a memorial to his father. Standing 30 meters tall, the spire offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and even the distant Slieve Gullion mountains on a clear day. Guided tours are available between March & September.

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The Cut, Lough Lene

There is ample car parking, changing facilities and public toilets at The Cut.  Enjoy the views, a reluctant dip or a lovely swim in the beautiful lake.  Take the boat out for some fishing or the boards out to join in on the stand up paddle boarding.  Please ensure you use the bins provided and leave Lough Lene the way you would like to find it.

Lough Glore , Lough Bane & Lough Derravaragh are also just a stones throw, and are great fishing spots with Lough Derravaragh being one of the homes to the legend of the Children of Lir.

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The Cut, Lough Lene

Hotels & Accommodation

Castle Varagh Hotel

Castle Varagh Hotel

Experience the elegance of Castle Varagh Hotel in Westmeath, where lush gardens, a cozy terrace, and a welcoming restaurant-bar create the perfect retreat for relaxation.

Lough Bishop House

Lough Bishop House

Lough Bishop is a charming country house in Westmeath, peacefully set on a south-facing slope above Bishop’s Lough, offering unique B&B accommodation on a 100-acre farm.

Lough Bawn House

Lough Bawn House

Lough Bawn House is a Georgian residence, beautifully restored, set in gardens by Lough Bane, offering en-suite doubles, twin, double, and spacious family bathroom.

Lake Lodge

Lake Lodge

Lake Lodge, just 300 metres from Lough Owel, is perfect for family trips, reunions, or group getaways, with three stylish homes in private grounds accommodating 20 guests.

Haun Slow House

Hounslow House

Hounslow House is a charming 200-year-old farmhouse on wooded heights, offering sweeping views of Fore Valley and its historic Abbey, with spacious grounds, swings, and a games room.