Overview
Clonaslee (Irish: Cluain na Slí – “meadow of the way”) sits on the R422 between Mountmellick and Birr, about 100 km west of Dublin. With a 2022 population of 608, the village exudes a warm, community‑driven atmosphere while serving as the northern gateway to the Slieve Bloom Mountains. Its location on an ancient cross‑country route gives the settlement a sense of historic continuity, and the surrounding landscape provides a playground for walkers of all abilities.
History
The origins of Clonaslee stretch back to the 7th‑century foundation of a church by Saint Manman, after which the original parish was known as Kilmanman. Archaeological hints, such as a nearby ringfort in Larragan townland, point to even earlier settlement. The modern village grew from an Anglo‑Norman town in the late‑12th century, benefitting from the strategic advantage of local eskers for defensive mottes.
From the 16th century onward the Dunne family of Brittas left a lasting imprint. Their former residence lies in ruins at Clara Hill, and the 1680 Ballinakill Castle ruins sit on the east bank of the Clodiagh River. In 1771 Francis Dunne built a thatched parish chapel, later replaced by the present parish church erected in 1814 under General Dunne. The construction was supported by a £800 gift and a £300 loan from the Board of First Fruit, with further contributions for Glebe House in 1830. The village’s growth accelerated after the 1814 improvement of the Mountmellick‑to‑Birr road, bringing a post office, police station and other civic amenities.
What to See & Do
Historic Sites
- Parish Church (St Manman’s) – Built in 1814, this modest stone church reflects the village’s 19th‑century revival.
- Ballinakill Castle Ruins – A 17th‑century tower on the Clodiagh River, offering evocative views of the surrounding countryside.
- Clara Hill Ruins – Remains of a Dunne family residence, a short walk from the village centre.
- Brittas Castle Gateway – Although the tower burned in the mid‑20th century, the gateway on Main Street hints at the estate’s former grandeur.
Outdoor Attractions
- Brittas Lake & Forest – Managed by Coillte, the lake is a popular picnic spot, and the surrounding forest hosts several marked loops.
- Rickets Rock Loop – 4.5 km, moderate grade, mixing minor roads, sandy track and forestry paths. Ideal for families and casual walkers. Map
- Brittas Lake Loop – 6 km, moderate, taking you along the tranquil River Clodiagh and through mature Douglas fir stands. Map
- Glendineoregan Loop – 11.7 km, strenuous, for experienced hikers seeking varied terrain of woodland and open moorland. Map
- Brittas Forest Loop – 5.9 km, strenuous, starting at the Brittas Forest recreation area near the Garda station. The trail follows the Clodiagh River, passes the long‑distance Slieve Bloom Way, and loops back through mixed conifer‑broadleaf forest. Approx. 1 h 30 min. Details
- Slieve Bloom Way – Stage 1 – A 19.5 km moderate stage ending in Clonaslee, traversing the Knockanastumba and Knockachoora slopes. This long‑distance trail links the village to the wider 85 km network across Laois and Offaly.
Community & Culture
- Clonaslee–St Manman’s GAA Club – The local Gaelic Athletic Association club hosts matches and community events.
- Local Pubs – Mary Hickey’s, Fallon’s and Cosy Bar on Main Street provide a friendly spot for a pint after a day on the trails.
Practical Information
Getting There
- By Road: From Dublin, follow the N7/M7 to Portlaoise, exit at Emo (Exit 15) and continue west on the R422 to Clonaslee.
- By Bus: The Slieve Bloom Coach 841 runs three times Monday‑Saturday from Tullamore via Kinnitty, Cadamstown, Clonaslee and Rosenallis to Mountmellick. Bus Éireann 73 passes nearby Mountmellick, offering connections to Portlaoise and Dublin.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Portlaoise, with hourly services from Dublin Heuston to Galway or Cork.
- Parking: A free car park is available at the Brittas Forest recreation area, the trailhead for the Brittas Forest Loop and other walks.
Walking Essentials
- Trailheads are clearly way‑marked with blue arrows on white backgrounds (Brittas Forest Loop) or the familiar yellow walking man for the Slieve Bloom Way.
- Dogs are permitted on most loops, including the Brittas Forest Loop.
- The loops are open year‑round; no admission fee is required for any of the walking routes.
- For guided experiences, the Slieve Bloom Walking Club organises weekly walks and can provide personal guides on request. Join a walk.
Amenities
- Food & Drink: The village’s three pubs serve meals and drinks throughout the day. For a broader selection, Mountmellick’s eateries (e.g., Golden Grill, Roberto’s) are a short bus ride away.
- Accommodation: While Clonaslee itself has limited lodging, nearby towns such as Mountmellick, Portlaoise and Tullamore offer a range of B&Bs, guesthouses and hotels.
- Services: The Clonaslee Garda Station on Main Street provides a point of contact for any enquiries while on the trails.
Connectivity
- Mobile coverage is good from Eir and Three; Vodafone may be spotty in the more remote forest sections.
Seasonal Notes
- The Brittas Lake Loop and Rickets Rock Loop are popular in spring and summer when the forest floor is lush and the lake reflects the surrounding hills. The Glendineoregan Loop, being more strenuous, is best attempted in drier months to avoid muddy sections.
Nearby Attractions
Within a short drive of Clonaslee you’ll find several notable sites worth a detour:
- Abbeyleix – A heritage town famed for its Georgian architecture and the nearby Abbeyleix Bog.
- Emo Court – The 18th‑century neoclassical house set in extensive parkland, ideal for a leisurely stroll.
- Rock of Dunamase – Imposing ruins perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.