Tipperary (Tiobraid Arann)
County Tipperary
Every one knows it’s a long long way to Tipperary, but the journey is definitely worth it.
For administrative purposes Ireland’s largest inland county is divided in to two, the car registration plates TN indicate Tipperary North, so you can take a wild guess as to where a car which includes the letters TS in its registration comes from.
North Tipperary borders counties Clare and Limerick and the entire west of the county borders Lough Derg, the biggest lake on the Shannon.
Sights to see while in North Tipperary include the town of Roscrea and its castle, and Holy Cross Abbey.
The river Suir flows through South Tipperary and is noted for its brown trout.
The lush valley of the Glen of Aherlow lies between the Galtee Mountains and the wooded ridge of Slievenamuck.
Historically an important pass between Limerick and Tipperary and a notorious hideout for outlaws, today it offers perfect opportunities for riding, cycling, rambling and fishing.
Places not to miss while in South Tipperary include the Rock of Cashel, the towns of Clonmel and Carrick-on-Suir, and Cahir castle.
Looming over the town of Cashel, the medieval Rock of Cashel is an eerie, magnificent sight, especially at night when it is lit by floodlights. This rocky stronghold was a symbol of royal and priestly power for more than a thousand years.
Rising dramatically out of the otherwise fairly flat Tipperary plain, much of the medieval complex is still standing. It is an outstanding example of Romanesque architecture.
Clonmel is County Tipperary’s principal town. Previously an Anglo-Norman stronghold, it is a bustling lively town with quirky architecture and vibrant nightlife.
The sleepy town of Carrick-on-Suir is well worth a visit for its air of timelessness and old-fashioned grace. Situated on a rocky island in the River Suir, Cahir Castle is one of the most imposing castles in Ireland. Now a popular film set, this well-preserved fortress dates back to the 13th century.