Accommodation

The Whelan family have been in business in Borris since 1928 and for over 50 years Daniel Whelan Engineering Works Limited has been an industry leader in the manufacturing and fabrication of architectural metal work, balconies, fencing solutions and waste handling materials, supplying products for some of the largest developments across Ireland. The company vision is founded on quality, value innovation and seeking continuous improvement. A team of highly experienced engineers, fabricators, estimators, and project managers work together in the combined office/workshop environment to ensure excellent communication, high attention to detail and quality management. Daniel Whelan Engineering Works Ltd is committed to providing excellence and value in architectural metal work. The investment in leading-edge technology for design and fabrication ensures the team maximises efficiencies whilst providing uncompromised quality resulting in high customer satisfaction. Website: https://danielwhelanengineering.ie/ Email: info@dwew.ie Number: 059- 977 3178 Eircode: R95 XN56 Social Media Handles: Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanWhelanEngineering/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/dwewltd LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/2778412/

Grass Technology is a thriving manufacturer of agricultural machinery specialising in zero grazers and slurry. Grass Technology has fast become a market disruptor; in a few short years of trading it has established itself as Europe’s largest producer of zero grazers, and has been creating new standards in in slurry handling systems, competing strongly against brand which have been trading for decades. Based in Borris, Co Carlow, the state of the art factory creates high-quality farm machinery and distributes globally, with a mission to enable farmers to cut their costs and grow their margins by utilising the most grass per acre. A range of machinery is produced, with upgrades and innovations constantly being developed. Grass Technology is one to watch! Contact Details Email: info@grasstech.ie Website: http://www.grasstech.ie Grass Technology Borris Business Park Borris, Co Carlow R95 E032 Social media links http://www.facebook.com/grasstechnology http://www.instagram.com/grasstechnology http://www.twitter.com/grasstechnology https://www.youtube.com/c/grasstechnology

Established in 1978, KEENAN is a respected leader in profitable farming solutions and has earned a particularly strong reputation for manufacturing quality diet feeders for the agriculture sector. KEENAN manufacture diet feeders from scratch at their production facility in Borris. KEENAN, a member of the Alltech family of companies since April 2016, feeds and interprets data from more than 300,000 cows from close to 2,000 farms in 25 countries around the world, representing one of the world’s largest field databases on dairy feed efficiency. KEENAN prides themselves on continuous investment into new technology for the benefit of their customers globally. The company has evolved throughout the years, combining cutting-edge technological developments with breakthrough nutritional expertise. A keen advocate for environmental sustainability, KEENAN has developed a range of solutions to enable farmers to overcome agricultural production challenges, improve rumen health and feed efficiency. Contact details: Tel: 059 977 1200 Email: keenaninfo@alltech.com Website: www.alltech.com/keenan Address: KEENAN (Alltech Farming Solutions Ltd.), Clonagoose Road, Borris, Co. Carlow R95 K223 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KEENANGlobal Twitter: https://twitter.com/KEENANsystem

Michael O'Dowd Insurances Ltd was founded in 1994 and opened its office in Main St, Borris. The business is an insurance brokerage, quoting for cars, Jeeps, vans, homes, offices, farms and employers & public liability insurances. Contact Details: Email: odowdmichael@eircom.net Phone: 059-9773673 or 059-9773674

O’Shea’s Hardware is in business since 1934 when Michael O’Shea established a General Merchant business in Borris. Much has changed over the past 80 years but O’Shea’s Hardware continues to provide a service to the local community. We carry a broad range of hardware, building materials, agri, DIY products, garden and household items. Included in these are plumbing and electrical fittings, fixings of all sorts, tools, Dulux paints, cement, timber and dog foods. We also stock a range of garden items which include garden tools, compost, flower + veg seeds (seasonal) and potted flowers (seasonal). We also stock a wide range of fuels, including a variety of coals, timber, gas and peat briquettes. We are located in the Centra car park area on Main Street, Borris. Contact us on (059) 9773106 or email accounts@osheasofborris.ie. Postal address: Main Street, Borris, Co. Carlow R95 C92R.

The Store Craft Shop is a local arts and crafts shop located in the Gate Lodge of Borris House. Borris and its surroundings are home to a number of artists and craftspeople. If you’d like a taste of what they have to offer, head to The Store Craft Shop. This small but selectively stocked craft shop is run by jeweller Emma Jane Champley and feltmaker Leiko Uchiyama, both of whom share a passion for championing local makers. Contact Details Email: emmajanechampley@gmail.com Phone: Emma 085 1325590 Web: http://www.thestoreborris.com Address: The Store, The Gate Lodge, Borris House, Borris, County Carlow, R95Y2T1 Social media https://www.facebook.com/thestoreatborrishouse https://instagram.com/thestoreborris

Style Seekers Unisex Hair salon, on Main Street in Borris, Co.Carlow, is owned by Carol Dowling. Carol is very passionate about her job and is always looking for a challenge. She has 10 years experience, specialising in colour cutting and styling. Contact: Tel: 083 0292697 Email: caroldowling73@gmail.com Facebook: @StyleSeekersHairSalon

Ireland's largest candle manufacturer, based in Borris, Co. Carlow. Creating amazing candles with our unique fragrances. Torc Candles are based in the south east of Ireland in the picturesque village of Borris in Co Carlow. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Leinster. it all started by hand pouring their maiden range and now they are Ireland’s largest candle manufacturer, that did not happen overnight, they have been on quite the journey designing and making luxury fragranced candles for over 50 years. Using a unique blend of natural waxes and innovative fragrances sourced from around the world as their passion and company ethos is to create the perfect burning experience for their customers. They are committed to lead and continue to be at the forefront of all changing trends in fragrance and design with absolutely no compromise on quality. Contact Details Email: sales@torccandles.com Website: http://www.torccandles.com Fenagh Road, Borris, Co. Carlow R95 YV56 Social media links https://www.facebook.com/torccandles https://www.instagram.com/torc_candles/

9 Stones Artists was formed in 2004. Its members are professional artists all of whom are based and work in the foothills of the Blackstairs Mountains in South County Carlow. The group was formed out of the recognition of the need for mutual strength, discussion and inspiration within their community. Over time, each artist’s career has developed and in turn the group is highlighting leading contemporary art practice and enriching the culture of South Carlow. The artists are Michelle Byrne, Cathy Fitzgerald, Remco de Fouw, Rachel Joynt, Annabel Konig, Anthony Lyttle, Martin Lyttle, and Jules Michael. Contact Details Email: 9stonesartists@gmail.com Website: https://9stones.wordpress.com/ Facebook page: https://business.facebook.com/9stonesartists/

Emma Jane Champley graduated in Jewellery & Silversmithing from Loughborough College of Art and Design in 1994. She then worked at a leading studio in London’s Clerkenwell before moving to Ireland in 2003 where she now lives with her family. Emma Jane's greatest passion is working with silver, exploring this beautiful metal's capabilities and showcasing it in its purest form. In her work she employs simple, elegant shapes that are highly polished or roughly hammered. Inspired by the human form, she creates both one of a kind commissioned pieces and statement collections. Emma Jane is a registered member of the DCCOI, a VEC tutor for the Kilkenny and Carlow ETB and a founding member of FORM DesignMade in Carlow. Contact details: website www.emmajanechampley.com email emmajanechampley@gmail.com phone 085 1325 590 link to Emma Jane’s online shop https://www.emmajanechampley.com/jewellery-shop/

Ecological knowledge can help adult creatives and art professionals develop impactful creative works, exhibitions, events, community art programmes, for these urgent times. Haumea Online offers accessible, affordable courses with experienced South Carlow ecoartist Cathy Fitzgerald. Interested in how your creative practice or arts professional work can respond to environmental concerns? If you are a professional creative worker in any art field, or an educator, curator, festival organiser or community worker, ecoartist Cathy Fitzgerald’s online course on ecological knowledge can help you respond more confidently to ecoart issues that are increasingly important across society. Learn online in a self-paced course with experienced ecoartist Cathy Fitzgerald to gain an overview of ecological philosophy, environmental science and ethics, traditional knowledge, and even the new eco-economics that will be essential to inspire our communities towards a better, more just and sustainable world. Cathy’s online courses have featured on Lyric FM and Dublin City FM and attract interest from Carlow and international art professionals. Contact Details Email: cathyart@gmail.com Website: https://haumea.ie/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/HAUMEA.ecoart.notes/ Instagram: www.instagram.com/haumea_learn_ecoart/

Leiko Uchiyama is a felt making artist. Her simple, delicate and daring designs are meticulously crafted and strongly influenced by her Japanese background. Leiko works with natural or hand dyed wool and silk to create wearable, practical and decorative pieces. Each piece is one of a kind. Felt making has enabled Leiko to travel worldwide, exhibiting, lecturing and teaching this ancient skill. Contact Leiko to find out more about her classes and share her love of felt. Contact Details Email: leikofelt@gmail.com Web: www.leikofelt.com The Gate Lodge, Borris House, Borris, Co.Carlow, R95Y2T1 Social media links FaceBook Instagram: @leikofelt

Maker of stoneworks and stone sculpture. Works range from smaller functional work, indoor and outdoor sculpture to large public art commissions, As a stone sculptor, Martin’s work concentrates on natural, organic forms and the composition and texture of the stone. A sense of place and a concern for the natural environment informs his work, with inspiration drawn from the trees, hedgerows, stone walls, bogs and the landscape of the Blackstairs Mountains. It is the “irregularity of nature”, beauty and biodiversity of nature that interests him. Martin works only in local Irish stone, usually Kilkenny Limestone and Carlow Granite. Martin is a member of the “9 Stone Artists” and “FORM DesignMade in Carlow” with whom he exhibits regularly. He has completed several large Public Art Commissions and has been regularly selected for the Royal Hibernian Academy (RHA) Annual Open Exhibition and in 2018 he was awarded by the RHA the ESB Moran Award for Outstanding Sculpture. Contact Details Martin Lyttle Raheen Cross Killedmond Borris Co.Carlow R95 DC7P Tel: 087 601 7051 Email: lyttlemartin@gmail.com Website: https://www.lithicworks.com/

Mairead is an Irish artist who lives in rural Carlow with her market gardner Nick and her artist daughter Aoife, at the foot of the Blackstairs Mountains. She is a visual artist who specialises in watercolours. She also works with creative textiles. She runs workshops in her purpose built studio for a small number of people on demand and will travel for larger groups. Mairead Specialises in watercolour but works in a variety of media. She is a graduate of NCAD with an MA in Education. She works with groups of all ages and abilities. She is a tutor for Kilkenny and Carlow ETB as well with KCAT in Callan. She has had works accepted for the final of the Royal Watercolour Society Contemporary exhibition in London’s Bankside Gallery. She will do commissions and has a blog Website: https://maireadholohan.Wordpress.com Instagram: @maireadholohanartist Email: Maireadholohan57@gmail.com

Three words describe Nicola Brown's textile practice, simple, natural, crafted. The focus of her work revolves around eco printing, a simple but exciting technique where handmade felt, locally woven lambswool, linen vintage fabric and silk is wrapped with garden and hedgerow vegetation then boiled to extract contact prints directly from the organic matter. Nicola grows almost all her own vegetation for the studio and her emphasis is on working in as sustainable, environmentally friendly and health conscious way possible. In addition to exhibiting in group shows nationally and internationally Nicola staged her first solo exhibition ‘Seascapes’ during the 2011 Kilkenny Arts Festival and this was followed in 2016 by ‘From Perennial to Print’. She was featured in a 5 part series called Makers for RTE, the Irish national broadcaster and is regularly interviewed for radio and print media. Contact Details Email: clasheen@gmail.com (the best one to reach Nicola on) and nicola@nicolabrown.ie Website: http://nicolabrown.ie/ Address: Clasheen, Ballybrack, Borris. Carlow via Kilkenny R95 AD62 Social media links Facebook: clasheen Instagram: @clasheen/ Other links: Linktree Nicola Brown Fine Art Textiles Clasheen Ballybrack Borris Kilkenny R95 AD62

The Store Craft Shop is a local arts and crafts shop located in the Gate Lodge of Borris House. Borris and its surroundings are home to a number of artists and craftspeople. If you’d like a taste of what they have to offer, head to The Store Craft Shop. This small but selectively stocked craft shop is run by jeweller Emma Jane Champley and feltmaker Leiko Uchiyama, both of whom share a passion for championing local makers. Contact Details Email: emmajanechampley@gmail.com Phone: Emma 085 1325590 Web: http://www.thestoreborris.com Address: The Store, The Gate Lodge, Borris House, Borris, County Carlow, R95Y2T1 Social media https://www.facebook.com/thestoreatborrishouse https://instagram.com/thestoreborris

We are an Irish scout group based in Borris, Co. Carlow, Ireland. We’re a member of Scouting Ireland. Scouting Ireland is dedicated to enabling and empowering young people to realise their potential, through its core values based on the Scout Promise and Law, fostering active citizenship, and helping create a better community, society, and world. The Aim of Scouting Ireland is to encourage the social, physical, intellectual, character, emotional and spiritual development of young people so that they may achieve their full potential and, as responsible citizens, to improve society. Getting youngsters involved in outdoor adventures and challenges helps them to achieve these aims and have fun. While enjoying themselves outdoors they will make strong friendships, volunteer in their community, learn adventure skills, travel, become leaders and team-members, and appreciate the importance of our outdoor environment. Friendships and memories made in Scouts can last a lifetime. Skills like leading a group, teamwork, planning, project management, dealing with difficulties & weather, packing, budgeting, first aid, cooking, navigation, building structures, volunteerism, and making a shelter will always be useful and underpin future careers and life choices. We are always welcoming new people to 3rd Carlow Borris Scouts both of all ages either youth members or adult members. If you are interested in joining or want to find out more about us, please contact us. Please note that due to restrictions on adult to youth ratios that there may be waiting lists so get in early to book your place, or one better become a adult member to help out. Activities There are nine defined Adventure Skills; Camping, Backwoods, Pioneering, Hillwalking, Emergencies, Air Activities, Paddling, Rowing, Sailing. This range of skill areas has been chosen to provide a framework for an active and adventurous outdoor programme providing fun, friendship and challenge. Competency in specific Adventure Skills allows our youth members to carry out a great variety of Scouting adventures and activities in a safe and competent manner. Approached correctly they will provide our Scouts with a sense of pride and confidence that comes though developing a knowledge and level of competency in the skill areas they choose. They also provide ample opportunity for young people to develop instructing and coaching skills while passing on their skills to others. Adventure Skills encourage young people to progressively increase their skills level. They should be undertaken alongside the Personal Progression Scheme, so that they support their personal development as well as their outdoor skills development. Borris Scouts History Borris scouts was founded in 1984 and over the last 35+ years the scouts in Borris have provided a wide varying programme for over 1000 youth members in our community. We run a programme from youth members from the age of 6-26 years of age and opportunities for adults to help our youth members develop through the different stages of scouting. Scouting in Borris has always been about learning by doing and while experiencing the outdoors. Over the 35 years the group in Borris has been quite successful with over 25 Chief scout awards, 3 all Ireland camping title and we also created opportunities for our youth members to travel abroad on annual camp to countries like Wales, Scotland, England, France, Austria, Croatia, Italy, Slovenia, Switzerland and Sweden. What scouting means is that it gives our youth members to reach their potential and beyond and things they never thought they could do possible. Newsletter In the Borris community for the last 25 years we have been providing local news to all the households through our Community Newsletter. The Newsletter is a weekly addition that is created, printed, and distributed by the scout group to keep the community up to date on current events, club news, advertisements for local business and other fun stuff.

Ballymurphy Celtic AFC was formed in 2000 and is celebrating its 20th consecutive year competing in the Carlow & District Football League. Our Home grounds are located about one kilometre from Ballymurphy Village at Kilmison which is situated underneath the beautiful and picturesque setting of the Blackstairs Mountain range. We cater for all Footballing interests in the South of the County with teams at all levels i.e. Men’s, Ladies and Juvenile. Our players traditionally hail from the Ballymurphy, Borris, Rathanna & St Mullins area of the County. We currently have over 150 playing members with 120 of these being from the ages of 6 to 16 years of age. Our club’s foundations lay in an ethos of a hard working voluntary committee with an undying love for the local community of Ballymurphy and surrounding areas. We have a proud history and achievements since our formation lifting Silverware at all levels, Men’s, Ladies and Underage. Our Men’s team currently represent the Club in the Premier Division and we have competitive teams at all age groups in the Carlow and District Juvenile League. Our Colours are Green and White and our nickname is ‘BALLY’. New Members are always welcome. For further details please contact; Club Chairman & PRO: Thomas Doyle 087-9623421 Club Secretary: John Whelan 087-9000902 Juvenile Committee Rep: Tommy Joyce 086-8184917 Facebook: www.facebook.com/ballymurphycelticafc2017 Twitter: @BmurphyCelticFC

Borris Handball and Racquetball Club provide facilities for our members to use including court, gym, sauna, kitchen and changing facilities. Borris Handball Club was set up in 1978 to provide facilities for the local community to play Handball. Great success came in the following years at Club, County, All-Ireland and International levels. It is recognised as one of the best facilities in the country. In 2015 the Racquetball Club was set up which attracted great interest. The club organises tournaments for its members which brings lots of spectators. Contact Details Phone: 0876 881722 Email: borrisracquetballclub@gmail.com Address: Main Street, Borris eircode: R95 V29P

Borris Lacemakers are a community group established in 2016 and dedicated to the revival of the unique and distinctive Borris Lace which dates back to 1846. We collaborate with local communities to ensure that Borris lace remains part of our local and national heritage. We offer workshops, demonstrations and events that encourage and inspire a new group of Lacemakers to carry on this noble tradition. Becoming a member promises multiple benefits that go above and beyond the skill of lacemaking. It’s an opportunity to meet like-minded people and make new friends. You can learn the skill of lacemaking and create timeless gifts for your friends and family. In today’s busy world, lacemaking is a wonderful way to relax and unwind, whilst playing your part in the revival of Borris Lace. For further information Email: borrislacemakers@gmail.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/borrislace Instagram: @borrislacemakers Twitter: @borrislace

Carlow Libraries provides an inclusive, accessible, free service to members of all ages, both in their four branches throughout the County and through their online eServices. Offering a wide range of services aimed at nurturing literacy, life-long learning and a sense of community, Carlow Libraries, the library service for Carlow County Council, operates from four branches in the towns of Carlow, Tullow, Muine Bheag and Borris. It is free to join the Service and membership offers to patrons access to a large stock of books, cds, and dvds for lending. As well as in-branch stock members can also choose from a wide range of electronic books, audio books, magazines, newspapers and educational courses online. Each branch provides facilities for PC access, printing and free WiFi. Branches regularly host community and cultural events, such childrens’ storytimes, art exhibitions, craft circles and public interest talks. Contact Details: Carlow Libraries HQ Tullow Street Carlow R93 K126 Website: http://www.carlowlibraries.ie Email: library@carlowcoco.ie Social media links: FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/carlowcountylibraries Twitter: https://twitter.com/CarlowLibrariesBorris Library Tel. 059 9771605 Opening Hours Monday 10.00 to 13.00; 14.00 to 17.00 Tuesday Closed Wednesday 10.00 to 13.00; 14.00 to 17.00 Thursday Closed Friday Closed Saturday 10.00 to 13.00 Sunday Closed

Borris National School provides a caring, happy, and secure atmosphere where the intellectual, spiritual, physical, moral, and cultural needs of the individual child are addressed and promoted. We support and promote the principles of respect for all, inclusivity, equality of access, opportunity, and participation by all the school community. Phone: 059 9773402 Email: pcoady@borrisns.com https://www.borrisns.com/

Unfortunately we have not been able to restart this year 2020 due to Covid-19 but are hoping to reopen again early next year 2021. Updates will be posted on our Facebook page named Borris Playgroup. Borris Parent and Toddler group was set up in 2006/2007. It was set up initially, like all parent and toddler groups, to give parents/carers a place to come once a week to meet other parents, in an informal setting and to let their children play together in a safe environment. A parent and toddler group is a great place to meet other people with children of similar age as yours in your area. We welcome not only mothers and fathers but childminders grandparents and other guardians. We welcome new born babies to 4 year old children to come and play in a safe environment. We are a voluntary committee of parents and with the support of all the other parents attending the group it ensures the smooth running of the group from year to year. We charge €3 per family per week which covers our costs for insurance, rent and refreshments for the parents and children. We meet every Wednesday morning between 10am and 12pm in Borris town hall, Main St, Borris in a very friendly and relaxed but safe environment. We follow the National school holidays and do not meet up if the school is closed. Please feel free to contact us for any more information. Via Facebook: Borris Playgroup or Text/Call Natalie on 0874519376 ​​

Community Employment programmes are designed to help people who are long term unemployed (or otherwise disadvantaged) to get back to work by offering part-time and temporary placements in jobs based within local community’s. CE projects are typically sponsored by groups wishing to benefit the local community, namely voluntary and community organisations and, to a lesser extent, public bodies involved in not-for-profit activities. Such projects provide a valuable service to local communities while at the same time providing training and educational opportunities to jobseekers. Borris St Mullins Community Employment programme was set up over 25 years and has been at the forefront in employing many hundreds of local participants to work with over 15 different Voluntary sub-sponsor groups within the south Carlow region with the primary focus being to build, maintain and enhance the high standards of presentation of local villages,public spaces and amenities, community halls and clubs and graveyards etc. The work carried out by the project over the years has helped transform the general appearance of Borris, St Mullins and surrounding areas, resulting in a greater sense of ‘Pride of Place ‘among participants and the local community. In addition, many of those participants have gained huge experience and availed of valuable training and secured full time and part-time work in their local community’s directly as a result of their participation in the community employment programme. The programme currently employs up to 26 participants with our project office based in the Town Hall in Borris and the Programme regularly has vacancies to fill roles such as Environmental operatives, Sports groundpersons, Graveyard and community Building Caretakers, office Administration staff etc. Contact details Borris St Mullins CEP CLG C/O Town Hall Borris Co. Carlow Email: jamesorbinski@borriscommunityemployment.ie Tel: 05991 9773021 087 6849793

Borris Community Development and Borris Tidy Towns work in partnership to develop and maintain our beautiful heritage town as a major Tourist Hub for the South Carlow area. Both Committees are run on a voluntary basis and hold fundraising events during the year to keep the town looking good all year round. All this work is carried out in conjunction with Carlow Tourism, Carlow Enterprise Board and Carlow CDCP. There is approximately 16 committee members involved in both committees, Borris Tidy Towns is over 50 years in existence and Borris Community Development is 8 years Contact details Chairman: Willie Quinn | quinnwm49@yahoo.ie | 0861659115 Secretary: Margaret Quinn Treasurer: Connor McCarthy and Liam Quinn

On the main street, right at the heart of the beautiful village of Borris, sits the Town Hall. Easily accessible, it provides a location to meet a range of needs including social, cultural and recreational for the surrounding community. The Town Hall is looked after by local volunteers and new committee members are always welcome. For more details on renting the hall and/or becoming a volunteer please use the details below. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TownHallBorris Address: Borris Town Hall, Main Street, Borris, R95 V29P

Borris Vocational School is a co-educational school. The school is under the trusteeship of Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board. The school provides Junior Cycle, an optional Transition Year (TY), the established Leaving Certificate and the Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP). In addition, the school has an autistic spectrum disorders unit. A broad and balanced curriculum is offered where students excel in their learning The combination of academic and extra-curricular achievements in Borris Vocational School is unique: excellent State Examination results are matched with successes in many areas. Student performance at extra- and co-curricular activities is outstanding. The school’s musicians have won national music awards, received invitations to showcase best-practice, have played in The National Concert Hall, performed on TV and in St Mark’s Basilica, Venice. Hurling is played at ‘A’ Colleges level; the only school in County Carlow to play at such a level. Writing, Enterprise, Camogie, Environmental, Show Jumping, Soccer and Art awards have been won among many others. The school was the holder of the All-Ireland Show Jumping title in 2016 and represented Ireland at the UK Schools Championships in Hickstead, finishing in 4th place overall. The Senior Team won the event in 2019 and the Junior Team were placed 8th in their competition. The school has also been represented on the Irish Schools Athletics Team. While achieving such successes is wonderful, the school is also very proud of the participation rates in the many activities available, be it, Debating, Chess, Rowing, The School Bank, The School Credit Union, Hunter Trials, Pope John Paul II Awards or any of the activities on offer. Contact Details For further information about Borris Vocational School, please follow all our latest news on our website: www.borrisvocationalschool.ie; follow us on Twitter using the handle @borrisvocschool; or contact the school’s office on 059 9773155 to make an appointment to speak with our school Principal, Mr Pat Coffey.

The Drummin Bog project is a voluntary not-for-profit community education project to restore the only raised bog in Co. Carlow. It is situated close to the River Barrow and the historical site of St. Mullins. It has been supported by Leader and Creative Ireland funding. Situated in the South East of Ireland, close to the River Barrow and the historical site of St. Mullins, The Drummin Bog Project, was formed in 2015 to restore and preserve this unique natural heritage site. The Drummin Bog is of considerable conservation significance with its own particular cultural history. Covering about 20 acres and ringed by native woodland, the rehabilitation of the bog presents an important opportunity to preserve its rare and distinctive ecosystem. Previously the raised bog “Drummin” or “Red” bog was drained and parts were cut away – in some areas it is extensively degraded and dried out resulting in an ingress of mixed scrub and woodland. Returning Drummin Bog to its active peat-forming state will be highly beneficial ecologically. At the same time, the Drummin Bog project will help develop new amenity access, and foster natural heritage education for the surrounding community and visitors to South Carlow. As this site is under restoration, please contact the Drummin bog committee regarding access to this site. Contact Details: Email: drumminbog@gmail.com Website: https://drumminbog.com/ Social media links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Drummin-Bog-Project-St-Mullins-208044596199555 Instagram: @drummin_bog

The IFA is Ireland’s largest farming representative organisation. We have protected and defended the interests of Irish farmers in all sectors for more than 60 years.We represent Irish farmers at home and in Europe, lobbying and campaigning for improved conditions and incomes for farm families. We also provide representation, support and advice to members on an individual basis. IFA is a democratic association, organised in branches, County Executive and National Committees. Through our democratic structure, each member can have their say. The officers of the Borris branch are: Chairperson: Jay Kelly Secretary: Ken Doyle. Delegates: Eoin Hayes and Paul Hatton Contact details: Jay Kelly. 087 7907475. IFA Website: https://www.ifa.ie/ IFA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IrishFarmersAssociation IFA Twitter: @IFAmedia

Mount Leinster Rangers GAA club was founded in 1987 and the amalgamation of three existing club teams Borris, Ballymurphy and Rathanna, within the parish was completed in 1988. Since then it has enjoyed great success in all grades of gaelic football, hurling, camogie and ladies gaelic football. The club caters for ages from under 6 up to adult level in all codes, both male and female. Major accomplishments for the club on the national stage were being crowned All Ireland Intermediate Champions in 2012 and Leinster Senior hurling champions in 2013 followed by an All-Ireland Senior Club hurling final appearance in 2014. MLR GAA Club have extensive playing and welfare facilities at their base in Ballycopigan incorporating 2 full size pitches with additional training area, flood lit astroturf pitch, hurling wall, gymnasium and dressing rooms. Contact Details Margaret Byrne – Secretary Email - Secretary.mtleinsterrangers.carlow@gaa.ie Address Mount Leinster Rangers GAA, R729 Ballycoppigan, Borris, Co Carlow Eircode: R95 NT92 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MLR-Mount-Leinster-Rangers-1499761246970496 Twitter: https://twitter.com/MLRangers

Mount Leinster Wheelers focuses on the more relaxed cyclist, interested in weekly , or bi-weekly cycling to routes planned by the club committee. The club is primarily involved in organising Sunday morning cycle routes, complete with the obligatory coffee, chat and craic break. During late spring and summer month’s ( daylight depending) , Wednesday evening cycles are arranged. All planned cycles commence from the carpark at the Hunters Rest, Fenagh, Co Carlow. Contact: Aoibheann 087 2237559 https://mountleinsterwheelers.wordpress.com/ fb: Mount Leinster Wheelers

The Irish Countrywomen’s Association brings together both rural and urban women with their communities through fellowship and co-operative effort. It is a national organisation with a federation in each county. Each federation has Guilds based on geographical location. Rathanna ICA was established in 2016. We meet on the second Tuesday of the month in Rathanna Hall at 8pm. We hold classes and talks on various topics of interest. We are involved in the local community in terms of participating in local festivals and events and fundraising for local charities. We provide a warm welcome for new members. It is a great way of socialising and making friends. We always end our meetings with a chat and cuppa. For further information please email rathannaica@gmail.com Ph: Helena McAteer: 0871269014 Mary Dunphy: 0876100016

Brenda's family run B & B is located in beautiful Borris, a lovely Georgian styled town, nestling under the foothills of the stunning Blackstairs Mountains in the Sunny South East of Ireland, a veritable haven for healthy holidays. Mention Borris and you are immediately reminded of the historic Borris House, the breathtaking Blackstairs Mountain range, the stunning beauty of Clashganny Lock on the River Barrow and the genuine warmth extended to all visitors both from near and a far. There is a 16-arch viaduct situated at the lower end of the town / right outside our gate. Borris is full of friendly characters who will ensure you get a warm welcome. Here you will be greeted with a warm welcome and treated to all the comforts of home. At Brenda's Bed & Breakfast our accommodation consists of 1 Family Room (King size Double Bed + Single Bed) 2 Double Rooms / 1 Triple Bedded Room. All rooms are En-Suite with Tea/Coffee making facilities / Hair Dryer / TV Broadband is availabe in all bedrooms. Our sun-room & dining room provides a warm welcome in the mornings and our traditional Irish Breakfast will set you up for the day. Our spacious sunroom provides a haven in which to relax, read or just enjoy the stunning view of the surrounding countryside. Spacious Car-Parking is available in our private car park. All in all, your stay in Brenda's B & B will leave you refreshed and relaxed and yearning for a return visit! We look forward to seeing you in Borris soon. Brenda Mc Carthy. Email: info@brendasbandb.ie Telephone: 059-9771860

At Joyce’s, we offer accommodation for families, small groups, couples, and individuals – ideal if you’re attending a function in nearby Borris House, or simply exploring the beautiful South Carlow countryside. Our accommodation consists of a family/group suite of three bedrooms with a shared bathroom, and three separate en-suite king-sized rooms. All guests also have access to a shared kitchenette, sitting room, and our garden. Main St, Borris, Co. Carlow https://joycesbar.ie/accommodation-borris/ Tel : 059 9773468 | 087 922 7362 Email : info@joycesbar.ie

Nestled in the lush countryside of the Barrow Valley, Mount Brandon Cottages are situated only 500 yards from picturesque, historic town of Graiguenamanagh, the Village of the Monks. Approached via a long tree-lined avenue, our two self-catering cottages are 4 * Failte Ireland approved and have been awarded the COVID-19 safety charter. The houses are set in extensive, landscaped gardens, where we have spotted some exciting wildlife, incl. badgers, foxes, hedgehogs and even a barn owl. The properties offer breathtaking views of Brandon Hill and the town below. The Barrow lends itself for kayaking, SUP, canoeing, fishing and gentle walks or cycles along the towpath. Within walking distance there are two stunning forest walks: Silaire Wood (it even has a boardwalk along the river) and Clashganny Wood. For the more energetic, Brandon Hill offers extensive hill-walking opportunities. Base yourself here us to experience Ireland’s Ancient East/the sunny southeast of Ireland. Sleeps 5 in 3 bedrooms 1 single downstairs 2 doubles (not twins) upstairs 1 downstairs bathroom with WC and showerKitchen/dining with all mod cons Sitting room with either open fireplace or wood-burning stove Upstairs bathroom Washing machine/tumble dryer Microwave Hob/oven WiFi access Oil-fired or electric storage heating TV, DVD and CD player Parking for two cars Contact: Andrea Wenner Mount Brandon Self-Catering Holiday Cottages Tinnahinch Graiguenamanagh Co. Kilkenny Ireland R95P046 Email: info@mountbrandoncottages.com Website: www.mountbrandoncottages.com Facebook: @Mountbrandoncottages Landline Tel.: 00 353-59-9724789 Mobile: 00 353-85-7317501

Osborne’s Storehouse is a 12 person self catering tourist accommodation, aimed at groups and families providing a base for visitors to explore the beauty of South Carlow. Located in the centre of the village of Rathanna, the Storehouse tourist accommodation and adjoining Osborne’s Bar provides the ideal base to explore all the the Blackstairs Mountain range and Barrow Valley has to offer. The newly converted Storehouse facility provides sleeping accommodation for up to 12 people in this self catered setting, while the small Victorian bar next door offers a place to relax and soak up the relaxing atmosphere. Ideally suited for groups of adventure seekers or those looking for a gentle stroll in the mountains, this can also accommodate a couple of families looking for a staycation. Osborne's Storehouse Self-catering Tourism Accommodation, Rathanna, Borris, Co. Carlow Phone: Eric +353 (0)85 86 27 891 Catherine +353 (0)85 71 47 994 Email: info@osborne-storehouse.com Website: http://storehouse-rathanna.ie

Nestled just outside the charming village of Borris Co. Carlow, my dream home basks in the tranquility of the Irish countryside, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Borris, affectionately known as 'The Best Small Town in Ireland,' provides a friendly atmosphere and a perfect base for exploring the southeast. Within a 30-minute drive, discover the rich history of Carlow and Kilkenny, the charming port town of New Ross, and the vibrant market town of Enniscorthy. Golden sands and the refreshing embrace of the Irish Sea beckon just an hour away, while a quick 1.5-hour trip connects you to the global hub of Dublin Airport. Surrounded by lush greenery, my dream home offers a haven of peace, a perfect escape from the everyday. It would be a joy to share its serenity with you. Accommodation – Unwind in Comfort Our spacious home boasts a large, inviting kitchen with a dining table perfect for social gatherings. Relax in the cozy living room with a TV. or freshen up in the convenient bathroom with a shower and toilet. Upstairs, two comfortable bedrooms await - one with a luxurious super king-size bed, and another with two double beds. A guest bathroom with a bathtub, shower, and toilet provides added convenience. Step outside and enjoy the serenity of our charming garden seating area. A convenient laundry room is available downstairs. Choose your Perfect Room Super King Room: Indulge in spacious comfort with our super king-size bed. This room includes a delicious breakfast and is available for: • €75 per person per night • €110 per night for 2 people Double Room: Two comfortable double beds offer a restful stay. Breakfast is included: • €70 per person per night • €95 per night for two people Children's Rates: We welcome families! Children aged twelve and under can stay for: • €45 per child night • €70 per night for two children *All prices include shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, hairdryer, towels, and WIFI Car Chauffeur and Travel Companion Let us take the stress out of your travels. We offer a car with a chauffeur service, and for an even more personalized experience, your chauffeur can also double as your travel companion! Service Options: • Book the car for at least 5 and up to 12 hours per day. • Rates are €25 per hour for the first 8 hours and €15 per hour for hours 9-12. • Need an airport transfer? Enjoy a flat rate of €110 (non-stop pick-up or drop-off). • Book a daily driving service for 8 hours or more along with at least 3 nights' accommodation and receive a 10% discount! Relax and explore in style! I'd be delighted to answer any questions you have and help you plan your dream holiday. Kind regards Silvia Silvia Hofstetter Liselican Borris, Co. Carlow R95X7T1 CH +41 79 287 27 15 WhatsApp IRL +353 83 451 20 08 silvia.hofstetter@bluewin.ch Fluent in Swiss German, German, and English

Ecotrails offers Wild Food Foraging, Wild Mushroom Workshops and Celtic Tree Trails plus award winning Shepherds Huts accommodation. Each Hut is warm and cozy and decorated in a rustic style, warm and cosy with a comfy double bed . The restored Eco Barn with showers, wet roo ms, kitchen and big wood stove is where guests chill out. Booking essential. Sorry No Pets. Gold accredited Eco Centre Breakfast included in night rate 9.8 Guest Awards 2021 Fabulous Top 50 Irish Independent 2019 Facilities: Electric Car Charger Bar B Q Wild Swimming in our small lake Canadian Canoe for guests use Hair Dryer WIFI access Overhead Projector Parking Oak Wood Maze Wild Flower Meadow Contact: Facebook : @Blackstairsecotrails Instagram : @Blackstairsecotrails Web: www.blackstairsecotrails.ie Twitter : @whiteecotrails Email: info@blackstairsecotrails.ie Mobile : 087 270 71 89 Landline : 059 97 73184

Stable House is a lovingly transformed former Victorian stables and coach house and is located 2.5 km from the heritage village of Borris, benefiting from magnificent views of the Blackstairs Mountains. This is a quiet and peaceful location, conveniently located to explore the South Leinster Way or meander along the River Barrow. The accommodation consists of 3 ensuite bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a living room with a large sofa and comfy armchairs. The property is also accessible. The property has 9.8 rating on booking.com and 5-star ratings on Airbnb, as well as achieving Super-host status Sleeps: 7 Facilities: 2 Double Ensuite Bedrooms (1 Accessible Wet-room) 1 Twin Ensuite Bedroom (Double and Single) Fully Equipped Kitchen Living Room Oil fire central heating Wi-fi Access Towels and Linen provided Smart TV with Saorview and Netflix Onsite Gated Parking Contact Details: Facebook: The Stablehouse Borris Instagram: @thestablehouseborris Phone: 0857699132 Email: hatton73159@gmail.com Address: Borris, Co.Carlow Booking via: AirBnB

The warm and welcoming atmosphere of this four star, 20-bedroom boutique hotel is designed to indulge, relax and unwind. From the original Gothic detailing of the entrance to the opulence of the interior, this is a place to soothe and inspire. Traditional Irish country hospitality is always evident, from delicious home-cooked breakfasts to freshly baked pastries and beautiful homemade scones. Celebrated head chef Alan Foley ensures that food and wine are at the heart of the Step House experience. The Cellar Restaurant with its archways and vaulted ceilings is the perfect setting for classical French-style cuisine and exclusively selected wines. The menus, carefully crafted by head chef Alan Foley, are designed to benefit from local produce emphasising a strong commitment to organic food. Staying and dining at the Step House Hotel is a truly unforgettable experience. Contact: The Step House Hotel, Main Street, Borris, Co. Carlow R95 V2CR t: 059-9773209 e: info@stephousehotel.ie w: www.stephousehotel.ie Social Media: Facebook: @StepHouseHotel Twitter: @StepHouseHotel Instagram: @StepHouseBorris

Full takeaway menu available including delicious pizza, burgers, kebabs and wraps. Main Street, Borris, Co. Carlow. Order online at https://bennistakeaway.ie/ or by phone: 059 9771845

Bob’s Bar is a little gem in the heart of Borris with a lively atmosphere. We also cater for parties and after’s of weddings. All welcome! BobsBarBreeen@Gmail.com Tel: 087 7790905

Clashganny House Restaurant is rural country house serving contemporary Irish cuisine in beautiful setting close to Clashganny Lock on the river Barrow. Situated in a fine old mid 19th century granite mill house, Clashganny House Restaurant is close to a lush beauty spot with one of Ireland's most famous scenic views nearby. The style is Fine Dining, but with a good dash of rural realism added. The emphasis is on locally sourced top quality ingredients respectfully prepared and lovingly served by husband & wife team Rob & Karen White. The Restaurant is open for Dinner from 6pm Wednesday to Saturday and Sunday lunch from 12.30pm. Contact Details Address: Clashganny House Restaurant Clashganny, Borris, Co. Carlow R95 C792 Telephone: +353 599771003 Website: http://www.clashgannyhouse.com Email: www.clashgannyhouse@gmail.com Facebook: http://www.facebook/clashgannyhouse Instagram: http://www.instagram/clashgannyhouse_restaurant Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/clashgannyhouse

Bulit in 1827 and originally operated as a small hotel supplying grocery, hardware and agricultural provisions, Joyce's Bar was established in 1923 and still has the old grocery and most of the original features remaining intact. Today, Joyce's operates as a pub and undertakers (with the funeral home next door) and is now run by John Joyce and offers: - A friendly, welcoming atmosphere - A great place for a pint and lively chat - Steeped in sporting tradition - Barista coffee and pastries available at weekends. - Private catering can be arranged for parties. - B'n'B planned to open here in 2021. Contact: Email: john66joyce@gmail.com Tel: 0879227362 0599773468 0599773114 Facebook:Joyces-Pub-Borris

This authentic Victorian Bar captures all the charm and character of the bygone era. Nestled at the foot of Mount Leinster, drop in and relax over a pint, or some good coffee or maybe a sweet or two. You never know you might even leave with a pair of wellies or a new shirt, anything is possible. Opening Hours Thursday 7-11.30pm Friday 7-12.30pm Saturday 2.30-12.30pm Sunday 2.30-11.00pm Bank Holiday Mondays 6-11.30pm Osborne's Bar Rathanna, Borris, Co. Carlow Phone: Eric +353 (0)85 86 27 891

O’Shea’s, General Merchants was founded in 1934 when Michael O’Shea purchased from the O’Brien family. Much has changed over the past 80 years but O’Shea’s pub has retained much of the character and style of times past. Customers can sit on a bar stool and enjoy a pint and at the same time buy a fishing rod or a box of nails or a light bulb or a bottle of milk or a loaf of bread. We offer a friendly atmosphere to meet friends for a night out or relax after a walk on the Borris Viaduct, Mount Leinster or down the Barrow line. The ‘Parlour’ offers a relaxing area to enjoy a coffee in the afternoon or to cosy up to the open fire at night. Our ‘Back Bar’ area is an ideal spot for groups to get together after a hurling game or a trip canoeing on the Barrow or walking the mountains. Groups are always welcome. We can offer finger food for groups of all sizes and music can be arranged for your night. If you would like to arrange an event please contact Michael on: Telephone: (059) 9773106 Email: michael@osheasofborris.ie Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OSheaspub/ Postal address: Main Street, Borris, Co. Carlow R95 C92R.

Teddy's Fast Food Takeaway is a locally owned fast food restaurant serving customers since 2000. It offers traditional fish and chips, burgers, chicken, sausages and much more Monday to Sunday. It also caters for variety of occasions and local events, ie birthday parties, sports celebrations etc. Phone orders and credit cards accepted. Opening hours: Monday to Sunday 4pm until late. Contact details. Email: karolinajoyce@yahoo.ie Website: https://teddys-fast-food.business.site/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teddysborris/ Address: Main Street, Borris, Co. Carlow, R95AW29

The Mullichain Cafe is situated on the banks of the river Barrow in St Mullins known as "The Jewel of the Barrow" where you can sit with a glass of wine or a good cup of coffee and watch the river flow by - that's the good life. The café is part of the restored grain store buildings that were used by the Grand Canal Company and then Odlums, the millers. Open 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., weekends in February and daily March – October. Contact details: www.themullichaincafe.ie 051 424440 087 2584663 Martin 086 8288047 Mark mullichaincafe@gmail.com R95 XY93 Social: Facebook - @The Mullichain Cafe Blog -The Mullichain Cafe ,Cafe by The River Twitter - @mullichain LinkedIn - Martin OBrien TikTok - Martin OBrien Instagram- @the_mullichain

Blackstairs Ecotrails offers Wild Food Foraging, Wild Mushroom Foraging and a Celtic Tree Trail. We also offer Company Days Out. If you would like an event outside of our Event Calendar, we can tailor an experience to suit your group and your time scale. Check out our Event Calendar at www.blackstairsecotrails.ie

Borris House is one of the most picturesque country houses in Ireland. Built in 1731 by Morgan Kavanagh, it is now a popular tourist destination, wedding and events venue. Borris House is the hereditary home of the MacMorrough Kavanagh family, former Celtic kings of Leinster. The house is open to visitors from May - September for guided tours. Visitors can also explore the surrounding gardens and parkland. A walk through the gardens of Borris House will take in the breathtaking views of Mount Leinster, the Blackstairs Mountains and the Barrow Valley. The newly-established Lace Garden takes inspiration from Borris Lace, using symbols and shapes from the lace as well as a white colour palette of plants. Be sure to visit The Store which is located in the Gate Lodge of Borris House selling eclectic art, craft and local artisan produce. Borris House is also a premier Irish wedding venue and has been successfully hosting weddings since 2008. The regency grandeur of Borris House, its beautifully romantic gardens and breath-taking views provide the perfect setting for exclusive weddings. Contact Details Website: http://www.borrishouse.ie Email: (General Enquiries ) : info@borrishouse.com (Weddings - Sarah, Wedding Coordinator ) : events@borrishouseweddings.com Phone: (All Enquiries) : 059 -9771884 Address: Borris House Borris, Co Carlow, Ireland Eircode R95 W983 Google Maps: Link Social Media: Facebook: @BorrisHouse Instagram: @BorrisHouse Twitter: @BorrisHouse

An annual weekend gathering of international writers, journalists, musicians, film-makers, and theatre producers, this is one of Ireland's leading literary festivals. The Borris Festival of Writing & Ideas takes place on the grounds of Borris House, and in the Village, in June each year (2021 dates are 11th to 13th June). It is aweekend of stimulating dialogue and discourse, gathering together intriguing international minds from all over the world and inviting them to south County Carlow for a few days. Prize-winning novelists, poet laureates, genre-changing musicians, mind-expanding academics, journalists from far reaches of the globe, but also artists, film-makers, political commentators, musicians, architects - and regular people who have experienced the extraordinary - grace the stages across the weekend. Curiosity might lead a festival-goer from the Middle Eastern front-lines, to first-hand accounts behind the lyrics and music of Florence and the Machine or Pink Floyd, to the latest research in neuroscience, to a forgotten novel penned 50 years ago, or to a local uilleann piper’s call. The Festival of Writing & Ideas has become known for its casual, friendly atmosphere, and for its extraordinary line-up of speakers, carefully curated by a small team led by Vivienne Guinness and Hugo Jellett. Spilling out from the magnificent grounds of Borris House into the pubs and halls of this idyllic village, the festival is a place that the curious find inspiring. In the past years the festival has welcomed Donna Tartt, Fiona Shaw, Michael Morpurgo, Simon Schama, Chrissie Hynde, Dominic West, Kate Tempest, Don McCullin, John Paul Jones, Michael Chabon, Sebastian Barry, PJ Harvey, Antony Beevor, Anne Enright, Martin Amis, Roy Foster, Michael Cunningham, Tommy Tiernan, Michael Harding, Louis De Bernieres, Philomena Lee, Joseph O’Connor, Bob Geldof, Michael Craig Martin, Colm Toibin, Florence Welch, David Simon, David Gilmour, Mary Robinson and many many others. As well as over 70 talks and conversations over three days, the festival features many music performances, often impromptu, and some theatre and film work. Email: info@festivalofwritingandideas.com Web: http://www.festivalofwritingandideas.com Borris House, Borris, Co Carlow Social media links https://www.facebook.com/writingandideas/ https://twitter.com/writingandideas

Glenn Lucas makes salad bowls in native Irish wood and also teaches woodturning. All skills levels welcome on private and group day-long classes. The Glenn Lucas Woodturning Study Centre is dedicated woodturning training center near Garryhill, just 8 km from Borris. Glenn is well-known for his classic salad bowls in native Irish wood, which are very popular gifts and can be bought directly from Glenn’s workshop - just give him a call before you arrive. He also has an online shop selling his bowls, own range of woodturning tools, DVDs, classes, as well as gift vouchers. Since May 2020 Glenn offers Zoom demonstrations and private tuition online. Contact Details Tel: (087) 297 3400 Email: info@glennlucas.com Website: www.glennlucaswoodturning.com Instagram: @lucaswoodturning Facebook: @glennlucaswoodturning Glenn Lucas Woodturning, Flander’s Cross, Garryhill, Co. Carlow, IRELAND R21 PC79

Go with the Flow is an adventure activity provider based on the Barrow river offering canoeing and kayaking for all ages and abilities. Go with the Flow offer guided trips and canoe hire options. Go with the Flow has been operating on the Barrow river for over 25years. The services provided include safe & exciting guided whitewater adventures, guided flat water adventures, 1 day and multi-day canoe hire & camping self guided trails and corporate team bonding adventure days. The business is owned and operated by Charlie Horan - a passionate paddler both in Ireland and abroad. Charlie and his team have a solid reputation for delivering a quality service with an emphasis on positive engagement, safety and fun. You can access a scheduled booking service via a very informative website. Calendar of events operates from May to September. Or if you wish to organise a bespoke event contact Charlie directly - he will definitely have options available. Go with the Flow continues to offer unique events to Corporates as well as families but also regularly work with sports organisations, youth service providers, Hen and Stag groups and just about anyone looking for adventure on the water. Get in touch now by calling or emailing - A ton of fun is guaranteed. Contact details Phone - Text - Whatsapp - 087 2529700 Email - info@gowiththeflow.ie Web - www.gowiththeflow.ie Instagram - @gowiththeflow.ie Facebook - Go with the Flow River Adventures Landline - Voicemail only 056 7801299 Address - The Lockhouse, Clashganny, Borris, Co Carlow

Graiguenamanagh Bike Hire maintains a large fleet of top quality mountain bikes for hire, perfect for discovering the Barrow Way. Explore a natural wonderland cycling along the towpath on a trail which is fringed with fabulous deciduous trees and well-preserved hedgerows. Enjoy uninterrupted and peaceful, quiet travel with the opportunity to encounter some of the local wildlife including heron, otter, pine marten, tree creeper and many more. Graiguenamanagh Bike Hire also hires out electric mountain bikes for those who want to tackle some of the higher peaks in the south Carlow area including Brandon Hill and the Blackstairs Mountains. All bikes come equipped with helmets, hi-vis vests and locks as required and are perfect for families, couples or groups. Graiguenamanagh Bike Hire also offers ecology based bike tours and bike and stand up paddle boarding days in association with local company Pure Adventure. Co. Kilkenny. GPS: 52.540231, -6.953942 t: 059–9724246/086–4084008 e: bike&hike@watersideguesthouse.com w: http:www.watersideguesthouse.com f: https://www.facebook.com/Waterside-Guesthouse- Instagram https://www.instagram.com/graiguenamanaghbikehire/

The Irish Hang Gliding & Paragliding Association is the National Association for the sports of Hang Gliding and Paragliding in Ireland. Founded in 1974 as the Irish Hang Gliding Association, it later expanded to include the newer sport of paragliding. The IHPA is a democratic association of pilots run by its members, from whom the executive committee is elected. As the National Association for hang gliding and paragliding in Ireland, the IHPA's primary purpose is to ensure the highest level of safety for both pilots and the public, and oversees the safety standards and training methods used in flight schools. The IHPA works closely with the Irish Aviation Authority, which has approved its Operations Manual. The IHPA also acts as a nationwide club, keeping members informed and in touch with each other, organising competitions and flying holidays overseas, and maintaining good relations with all the landowners upon whom the sport relies for access to flying sites around the country. Flyable in almost all wind directions, Mt. Leinster is Ireland's premier flying site for hang gliders and paragliders, and offers superb cross country flying opportunities. If you have ever dreamed of flying, the IHPA will help you to get your feet off the ground... and safely back down again! Contact details: Website: www.ihpa.ie Email: committee@ihpa.ie | chairman@ihpa.ie | secretary@ihpa.ie | safety@ihpa.ie | training@ihpa.ie

Mount Brandon Pottery School in Tinnahinch is run by Carmen, who is a potter registered with the Design and Craft Council of Ireland and has been running weekly pottery classes and workshops for adults and children since 2013. We create pieces out of earthenware clay and after bisque firing the creations are ready to be decorated and glazed; the students create work from start to finish (not paint some mass produced ready-made piece of ceramic). Carmen also design and creates her own range of hand built and wheel thrown work like those shown below. Telephone: 085-1108257

Hire a canoe in Borris and paddle down the River Barrow through some of Ireland’s most scenic and beautiful landscapes and locations. Paddle Your Own Canoe offers visitors the opportunity to rent a canoe and camping gear and organise a unique trip passing through lush countryside, rolling hills, and forests and mountain ranges including Mount Leinster, the Blackstairs and Brandon Hill. The supplied two-man open Canadian canoe has enough room to store luggage, paddles, buoyancy aides, helmets, camping gear, dry bags, watertight barrels, tents, sleeping mats and kelly kettles. There is an abundance of wildlife on the River Barrow with plenty of opportunities to see otters, egrets, herons, kingfishers, salmon, trout and many more. Beautiful riverside towns and villages offer ample opportunity for shopping, eating and enjoying a pint or two of Guinness in any of the unique and authentic pubs along route. The river also has a 200-year old fascinating navigation system and some wonderful examples of fine industrial heritage. Contact Details; Paddle Your Own Canoe, Milltown, Borris, Co. Carlow Tel: 087 4140461 Email: info@paddleyourowncanoe.ie w: http://www.paddleyourowncanoe.ie Social Media; f: https://www.facebook.com/PYOCanoe

Specialists in exceptional outdoor experiences and training in outdoor sport s, Pure Adventure is based in Graiguenamanagh on the banks of the River Barrow in the heart of the Barrow Valley. It’s a family run business with passionate, experienced and trained quality instructors. From white water kayaking to a gentle canoeing tour of the River Barrow, visitors can enjoy the weirs and rapids of Ireland’s second longest river. Pure Adventure also offers stand up paddle boarding which gives a real sense of the wilderness, tradition and adventure associated with a trip along the River Barrow. The feeling of walking on water is hard to beat as one watches kingfishers buzzing by, herons fishing on rocks and an otter swimming around. Pure Adventure, The Quay, Graiguenamanagh, Co. Kilkenny (No Eircode available) GPS: 52.539363, -6.953981 t: 087–2265550 e: info@pureadventure.ie w: http://www.pureadventure.ie Facebook: @PureAdventureIreland Twitter: @PureAdventurekk

The former Church of Ireland Church, originally built in 1811, now houses the St. Mullins Heritage Centre, situated beside the monastic ruins and cemetery. All aspects of local history including publications, church records, maps, old photographs and artefacts are displayed here and provide an account of village and rural life over the centuries. The exhibition presents eleven different storylines including Pattern Sunday, St Moling, 1798, the River Barrow and the flour milling connection. Opening times: please refer to facebook page. Guided tours by appointment. Admission: Adults €2, children free. Contact Details; St Mullin's Heritage Centre, St. Mullins, Co. Carlow. GPS Co-ordinates; 52.488967, -6.927657. Tel: 087–9013672 Email: stmheritage@gmail.com Social Media f: https://www.facebook.com/StMullinsHeritageCentre/