Read on for our 5 eerie places to creep out the kids this Halloween Midterm. (While you secretly get to enjoy the fresh autumn air and beautiful scenery).
Our fave spookalicious places are within 20 minutes of our glampsite…
Explore them all. If you dare! Mohahahah! (evil laugh)
1. ‘The Lost Village of The Cones’
It’s a real life ghost village! Situated in the picturesque Slieve Bloom Mountains, these deserted stone houses are a fascinated sight. Back in 1851, eight families lived here.
Now, trees grow through the windows, and moss & mushrooms cover the walls.
As the forest gradually reclaims the homes, it feels both natural & supernatural.
(There is also a lovely walk through the forest, over streams, and down to a gushing waterfall).
- Free to enter & free to park
- Access from the Ridge of Capard car park
- Snacks at The Falls Café at Glenbarrow
2. Timahoe Tower & Ruined Church
Just ten minutes from the glampsite, the Round Tower at Timahoe has many murderous stories to tell. Start with trying to explain why the secret doorway is located 5 metres off the ground and go from there…
(Legend has it that monks used a rope ladder to hide their treasures (and themselves) from raiders up in the tower. It didn’t always end well).
There is also a ruined church & heritage centre on the site.
The children’s playground opposite is also a popular haunt!
- Free to enter & free to park
- Kids playground opposite the tower entrance
- Ice cream & confectionary in Timahoe shop
3. The Rock of Dunamaise
The scene of many a bloody battle, this ancient hill fort must be bursting with ghosts! And it’s a great place to bring the kids on a spooky outing this midterm.
At the very least, they’ll likely be impressed with the supercool ruined ramparts, which date back to the 12th century.
Situated high on a hill, there are slitted windows for shooting your bow & arrow, and a great vantage point for pouring boiling oil on your enemies.
- Great views of Laois & surrounding counties
- Free to enter & free to park
- Bring your camera
- Pop into Portlaoise for lunch afterwards
4. Mass Rock at Oughaval Woods, Stradbally
If you go down to the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise… Try a trip to discover the Mass Rock in this atmospheric woodland setting. In penal times, (1691 to 1727), mass ceremonies were forbidden. So, people gathered here to celebrate mass in secret.
We can’t guarantee ghosts, but the massive trees, stone cross and alter in the woods make for an otherworldly experience.
- Free to enter & free to park.
- Pop in to nearby Stradbally for coffee afterwards.
5. The ‘White Lady’ of Cullenagh
Wooo! Did you know that we have our very own resident ghost here at Glamping Under The Stars? Known as ‘The White Lady’, on moonlit nights, she is said to emerge from the trees and walk across the field where our ‘Meadow Glampsite’ now stands.
Over the years, there have been several local sightings of the white lady.
Though our guests have yet to report any paranormal activity.
This is not so much of a day trip, as a story for the campfire. And you might need a few toasted marshmallows to settle your nerves before you go to bed!
Happy Halloween!