Explore Laois
Make the most of your visit to Ballinakill with plenty to see and do nearby. From family-friendly amenities to scenic walks and local attractions, explore what’s on offer in and around the village.
Ballinakill & Heywood Trails App
Discover the beauty, history and hidden corners of Ballinakill and Heywood with a collection of easy-to-follow walking trails. Whether you’re looking for a long scenic loop, a short stroll through the village, or a gentle family-friendly route, the app guides you step by step with maps, photos and local stories. Start your journey and enjoy the best of Ballinakill and Heywood.
Our Top Places to Go
Market Sq Studios
Quickly become a village institution. Ice cream and iced coffee in the summer and coffee and cake in the winter. And pick up that gift or special something while you're at it.
Mueller & O'Connell Bakery
If its bread and pastry you want, this is the place. Multi award winning. Stop in for sourdough, croissants, coffee, sandwiches and much more.
Polly's @ Abbeyleix Bog
Coffee, cakes, pizzas, burgers... live music even. A great spot to head to after a dip.
Castlecomer Discovery Park
If you're in the area then here's somewhere for a little more adventure. High ropes, archery, boating zip line, you'll find it here.
Abbeyleix Bog Walk
This local community led conservation project includes a wonderful walk across a restoring peat bog.
Timahoe Round Tower
Visit this historic location to go a way back in time.
Avalon House Hotel, Castlecomer
A family-run four-star hotel beside Castlecomer Discovery Park, with comfortable rooms, on-site dining and a welcoming base for exploring.
Abbeyleix Manor Hotel, Abbeyleix
A family-run hotel near heritage Abbeyleix, offering comfortable rooms, dining and a relaxed base for exploring County Laois and beyond.
Castle Durrow, Durrow
An elegant country house hotel in Durrow, set within historic surroundings, with characterful rooms, dining and beautiful formal gardens.
Ballinakill & Heywood Trails
Twin Trees
Claude's Seat
Gills Pond
Bridge & Water Garden
The Obelisk
Sham Castle & Ruins
The Orangery
Lutyens Gardens
Viewpoint
Bath House
Salesian Cemetery
Entrance Gates & Toilets
Parking
Ballinakill Outdoor Swimming Pool
Ballinakill Amenity Park
Ballinakill Trailhead
Market Sq Studios Coffee
Ballinakill Castle
McGraths Store
Brennans Store
Mass Lough Pond & Walks
Download the App for More
Explore The Area
The Midlands of Ireland, supported by the EU Just Transition Fund and Fáilte Ireland, is a territory dedicated to promoting regenerative tourism, helping local communities affected by the shift to a climate-neutral economy. This area is thriving with sustainable tourism development, thanks to numerous innovative initiatives and tourism projects. Visitors will enjoy the benefits of a diversified regional economy, the preservation of stunning natural habitats and biodiversity, and local communities offering a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.
What Else Is There to Do at the Pool?
The Ballinakill Outdoor Swimming Pool is at the heart of family life during the summer months.