Local Recreation
Roscrea is one of the oldest and most historic towns in Ireland. Its roots go back to the 6th Centruy when St. Cronan founded a monastic settlement. Activities in the area include angling, equestrian, golfing, hiking and hill climbing. To help you further enjoy your stay in Roscrea, we have compiled a list of contacts below:
Roscrea Castle and Damer House
We are proud to present Roscrea Castle. Built in the 13th century, today it still provides Roscrea with character and adds significant momentum to our skyline. Its gate tower, curtain walls and two corner towers date from 1280's. Don't forget to visit Damer House, a pre-Palladian Queen Anne style 3-Storey house built in the 18th Century in the grounds of the castle. For more information, visit www.roscreaheritagesociety.com
Tel: +353 505 21850
Fax: +353 505 21904
Slieve Bloom Mountains
Ideal for those who seek the tranquility of an unspoilt landscape, the Slieve Bloom Mountains provide the perfect setting for a cycle, drive or walk. For the more adventurous, the 66km Slieve Bloom Way passes remarkably deep glens and beautiful waterfalls. Gentle hills and challenging routes with panoramic views of the countryside make this a walkers paradise.
Contact: Tourist Offices in the Shannon Region
Tel: 1800 200541
The Legend Of Monaincha
Just a short distance from Racket Hall stands the ruins of the ancient abbey of Monaincha. This hiberno-romanesque is all that remains of the monastery of Canice. Situated on a peculiar little island in a marshy plain that was once Loch Cre, Monaincha is listed as the 31st Wonder of the world for its unique antiquity and mystical powers. The island is steeped in legend stretching as far back as the 7th century when the monastery was first established there.
Gardens
Fancroft Millhouse Gardens in Roscrea cover over 4.5 acres and includes a walled garden with stone tower and spring fed pond, a dramatic glass house and lake.
Tel & Fax: +353 505 23020
Equestrian
Just a 30 minute drive from Roscrea, The Tipperary Mountain Trekking Centre specialises in family riding holidays in their friendly farmhouse. Includes small group lessons, and off-road scenic mountain treks. Beginner and non riders are welcome.
Tel: +353 505 51005
Racing
Ireland is renowned the world over for horse racing and for the festivities that surround a 'Day at the Races'. Roscrea is lucky enough to be situated less than 30 minutes from Thurles Racecourse, which also provides us with Greyhound Racing, one of Ireland fastest and most exciting evening sports
Tel: +353 504 21003
Fishing
The Little Brosna River offers game angling for Trout. At Ballaghmore Lake, a private three-acre lake offers coarse and game angling on a fee-paying basis. 'Ireland's Shannon Region - A Fishing Kingdom' provides information on angling facilities in the Shannon Region and is available from any tourist office in the Shannon Region.
Tel: 1800 200 541
Web: www.shannon-fishery-board.ie
Golf
As well as Roscrea Golf Club which lies just a stone throw away from Racket Hall, Roscrea is surrounded by a wide variety of Golf Clubs. For a full list of these, you can contact Shannon Development at the number below.
CLICK HERE for Golf Breaks at Racket Hall »
Tel: 1800 200 541
Web: www.shannonregiontourism.ie
The above is just a taste of what we have we have to offer. The surrounding area is overflowing with little treasures such as Ballaghmore Castle, Leap Castle (reported to be the most haunted in Ireland), Holycross Abbey, Fairmount Farm, Arts and Crafts and Sailing. We have so much to offer you will just have to see for yourself.