Portlaoise Live Cam

Portlaoise is a town in County Laois, Ireland, with a rich history dating back to the 16th century. Originally known as "Maryborough," the town was founded in 1557 by Queen Mary I of England as a garrison town to control the local Irish population.

During the 17th century, Portlaoise played a key role in the English colonization of Ireland. The town's strategic location made it an important military base, and it was frequently the site of battles and sieges during the Irish rebellions of 1641 and 1798.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, Portlaoise became an important center for trade and industry, with a thriving market and a number of mills, distilleries, and breweries. The town also played a role in the Irish War of Independence, with several key events taking place in the area, including the rescue of Sean Hogan from a train in 1919.

Today, Portlaoise is a vibrant town with a population of approximately 22,000 people. It is home to a number of historic buildings, including the Portlaoise Courthouse, which dates back to the early 1800s, and the restored 18th-century Market House. The town also hosts a number of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including the Electric Picnic music festival and the Portlaoise St. Patrick's Day parade.

Portlaoise Top Tourist Attractions

Portlaoise and its surrounding areas have a number of tourist attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top ones:

• Emo Court: This stunning neoclassical mansion and gardens is located just a few miles outside of Portlaoise. The house was designed by James Gandon in the late 18th century and features beautiful gardens and parkland that are open to the public.
• The Rock of Dunamase: This historic site is located about 10km from Portlaoise and is a popular destination for tourists. The Rock of Dunamase is a ruined fortress that dates back to the 9th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
• Heywood Gardens: These beautiful gardens are located in Ballinakill, about 20 minutes from Portlaoise. The gardens were designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens and feature a series of terraces, fountains, and a large lake.
• The Slieve Bloom Mountains: These picturesque mountains are located to the south of Portlaoise and offer a range of activities for visitors, including hiking, cycling, and fishing. There are also a number of scenic drives that pass through the area.
• Portlaoise Heritage Trail: This self-guided walking tour takes visitors through the historic streets of Portlaoise and highlights some of the town's most important buildings and landmarks, including the courthouse, the old jail, and the Market House.
• Donaghmore Famine Workhouse Museum: This museum is located just outside Portlaoise and offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the Irish people during the Great Famine of the 19th century.
• The Laois Arthouse Gallery: This gallery is located in Stradbally and features a range of contemporary Irish art, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.

These are just a few of the many attractions that Portlaoise and its surrounding areas have to offer. Visitors to the town are sure to find plenty to see and do during their stay.

Portlaoise Climate

Portlaoise has a temperate maritime climate, which is typical of much of Ireland. The town experiences mild temperatures throughout the year, with cool summers and mild winters. The average high temperature in the summer months of June, July, and August is around 18-19°C (64-66°F), while the average low temperature in the winter months of December, January, and February is around 3-4°C (37-39°F).

Rainfall is common in Portlaoise throughout the year, although the summer months tend to be drier than the winter months. The town receives an average of around 800-900mm of rainfall per year, which is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year.

While Portlaoise does not experience extreme weather conditions, it can be prone to occasional storms and heavy rain, particularly during the winter months. Visitors to the town are advised to pack for a range of weather conditions and to check the local weather forecast before traveling.

Portlaoise Geography

Portlaoise is located in the midlands region of Ireland, in the county of Laois. The town is situated in a valley surrounded by the Slieve Bloom Mountains to the south and the Killeshin Hills to the north.

The River Triogue flows through the town and joins the River Barrow a few kilometers to the east. The surrounding countryside is predominantly agricultural, with fields of crops and pastures for livestock.

Portlaoise is well-connected to other parts of Ireland, with easy access to major roads and motorways. It is located just off the M7 motorway, which runs from Dublin to Limerick, and is also connected to the N80 road, which runs from Rosslare to Athlone.

The town is also served by a train station, which provides regular services to Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and other major cities. The local bus service offers connections to other towns and villages in the surrounding area.