This month At a Glance With Glenveagh takes a look at just a couple of places in Laois well worth visiting at any time of the year.

Heywood Gardens

One of Laois’ crown jewels, Heywood Gardens near Ballinakill are the perfect spot for a winter walk. There’s no admission charge into the gardens, which have been a feature in Laois since the 18th century. The picturesque gardens are full of unique architectural quirks, most noticeably the sunken garden containing an elongated, elliptical pool which hosts a grand fountain. In the wall that surrounds the garden, each circular window frames a spectacular view of the landscape constructed by Frederick Trench. Perfect for a tranquil weekend afternoon.

Visit the Laois Gardens website for more information,

Donaghmore Famine Workhouse Museum

History buffs can experience a unique insight into one of the darkest and most important periods of Irish history here in Laois with a visit to the Donaghmore Famine Workhouse Museum. The museum takes visitors back in time to 1847 when the workhouse was first established and tells the story of life for the inmates there. While the museum naturally covers one of the toughest eras of Ireland’s past, it also tells the story of how cooperation can triumph over adversity as the old workhouse building was replaced in 1927 with the Donaghmore Co-operative Society, which succeeded “primarily due to the entrepreneurial ability of the local committee, management, and loyal staff”. The

The Donaghmore Famine Workhouse Museum is open Monday to Firday from 11:00am to 5:00pm. Family tickets to the museum cost €10.

Visit the Donaghmore Museum for more information.

Emo Court and Parklands

No winter trip to Laois would be complete without a walk around Emo Court and its parklands which are open 365 days a year. The parkland is home to some unique including the mile-long Wellingtonia Avenue, flanked by giant Sequoia trees planted in 1853. The Emo Court tearoom in the historic Dower House is open throughout the winter, serving warm drinks and pastries, perfect to finish up your walk with.

Visit Emo Court for more information on opening times.

There are plenty of great spots around Laois for cultural trips or woodland walks, perfect for any winter weekend stroll.