Abbeyleix, Co Laois

Town: Abbeyleix, Co. Laois

Location: Situated in the heart of Ireland; practically half-way between Dublin and Cork.

Population: Over 2,000 people in 2006.

Education: Adult Education in Abbeyleix is served by the Further Education Centre which was established in 1991 and offers evening classes in subjects such as Art, Pottery, Photography, Computers and Basic Irish. The courses take place over a 10 week period; with two hours once a week. For details of these classes and the others available contact Helen Kavanagh on 057 8731127 or email info@abbeyleixfec.ie

Economy: Abbeyleix is a beautiful village that benefits from tourists; the sheer number of pubs and restaurants supports this.

History: The village enjoys Heritage Town Status as it is the site of an early Christian Abbey which was built for Cistercians in 1183; and it also boasts many beautiful period buildings.

Culture: There are many festivals and events going on in Laois; this year the Durrow Tri-Centenary Celebrations are taking place; it consists of a series of social, cultural, historical and environmental events. It includes an Eco Week, a National Heritage Week and an Arts Week in September.

The Noel Duggan Memorial Vintage & Classics Show is another must-visit in the area this summer. It will feature displays of cars, motorbikes and tractors dating back to 1910. Food and music will also be provided at the location in Ballinakill.

Sport: Abbeyleix has an impressive golf course and tennis club as well as being renowned as a walker’s paradise due to the scenic surroundings.

Craic: Morrissey’s pub located on the main street is almost a tourist attraction in itself; it has been in the Morrissey family for five generations and still provides a great place for food and drink and a welcoming atmosphere to soak up.