Complete Guide to Dublin & Midlands (2025)

The east coast of Ireland, particularly the capital city of Dublin, is often the first stop for many visitors. Nestled at the mouth of the River Liffey, Dublin is steeped in history and culture, home to landmarks such as the 13th-century Dublin Castle, 12th-century St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and 16th-century Trinity College. The city’s old cobbled streets and expansive parks beyond the Grand Canal echo the lushness of the Irish countryside.

Yet, Dublin is more than its historic sites. It has recently flourished in commerce and culture, rivaling other European capitals. The city center buzzes with life each evening, filled with people enjoying lively conversations, music, and plenty of Guinness. A visit to the Guinness factory, where you can enjoy a pint after a comprehensive tour, is essential, as is a visit to the nearby Jameson distillery. James Joyce famously quipped, “Ireland sober is Ireland stiff,” highlighting the spirited local atmosphere.

To the east, the Midlands region, making up about 10% of Ireland’s total area, offers a quieter retreat. Dominated by a fertile valley with numerous lakes and rivers and cut through by the Shannon, Ireland’s longest river, the Midlands are ideal for those looking to escape the bustle of Dublin. Here, you can enjoy excellent fishing, scenic boat rides on the Shannon, and explore significant sites like the 12th-century Birr Castle and the ancient monastic ruins of Clonmacnoise.

Cities of Dublin & Midlands

Dublin

Visiting Dublin, the vibrant capital of Ireland, offers a captivating mix of rich history, lively culture, and warm hospitality. Known for its literary heritage, Dublin is a UNESCO City of Literature and the birthplace of iconic writers like James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Samuel Beckett. A walk through the city reveals a tapestry of historic sites, from the medieval splendor of Dublin Castle to the awe-inspiring Trinity College, home to the ancient Book of Kells. The city’s compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot, whether you’re strolling along the River Liffey, visiting the iconic St. Patrick’s Cathedral, or discovering the city’s museums and galleries that showcase Ireland’s artistic and historical treasures.

Beyond its historical landmarks, Dublin is a city that thrives on its vibrant atmosphere and lively social scene. The famous Temple Bar district is the heart of Dublin’s nightlife, where traditional pubs buzz with live music, and the streets are alive with energy. Dublin’s culinary scene has also flourished in recent years, with an array of restaurants offering everything from traditional Irish fare to modern international cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying a pint of Guinness at a local pub, exploring the lush Phoenix Park, or soaking up the ambiance in one of the city’s many cafes, Dublin offers a delightful blend of the old and new, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both culture and charm.

View our Dublin Guide

History of Dublin & Midlands

Prehistoric Times in Dublin & Midlands

The Dublin & Midlands region has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of Mesolithic hunter-gatherers and Neolithic farming communities. Megalithic tombs such as Newgrange, Knowth, and Dowth in the Boyne Valley reflect advanced knowledge of astronomy and spiritual practices dating back over 5,000 years. These monuments highlight the area’s importance as a ceremonial and cultural hub in prehistoric Ireland.

Dublin & Midlands in the Celtic and Early Christian Periods

During the Iron Age, the region was settled by Celtic tribes who introduced language, mythology, and social structures still echoed in Irish culture today. The hill of Tara, located in the Midlands, was the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, a symbol of political and spiritual authority. With the arrival of Christianity in the 5th century, monastic settlements flourished, including Clonmacnoise, which became one of Ireland’s most influential religious and educational centers.

Dublin & Midlands in the Viking and Norman Eras

The Vikings established a key settlement at Dublin in the 9th century, turning it into a fortified trading port. Over time, Dublin evolved into a wealthy town with connections across the Irish Sea and beyond. In the 12th century, the Norman invasion brought dramatic change, with the construction of castles, churches, and walled towns across the region. Norman rule reshaped governance and land ownership, especially in Leinster and the surrounding Midlands.

Dublin & Midlands in the Tudor and Stuart Periods

The 16th and 17th centuries saw significant upheaval as the English crown extended its control more firmly across Ireland. The Dublin & Midlands region became a focus for military campaigns, religious conflict, and plantation policies. Dublin grew as an administrative capital under English rule, while parts of the Midlands saw rebellion and suppression. This era left a legacy of fortified houses, town walls, and shifting patterns of land ownership.

Dublin & Midlands in the 18th and 19th Centuries

In the 18th century, Dublin emerged as a vibrant cultural and political center, with elegant Georgian architecture and institutions such as Trinity College and the Royal Dublin Society. However, economic disparity and political unrest grew, leading to uprisings such as the 1798 Rebellion. The 19th century was marked by the Great Famine, emigration, and rising calls for independence. Railways and canals transformed transport, linking rural Midlands towns with Dublin and beyond.

Dublin & Midlands in the 20th Century and Beyond

The early 20th century was a time of revolution and transformation. Dublin was the center of the 1916 Easter Rising and later became the capital of the newly formed Irish Free State. The Midlands region contributed to the struggle for independence and later adapted to modernization in agriculture and industry. In recent decades, Dublin has grown into a global city of commerce and culture, while the Midlands continues to preserve its rural heritage alongside economic development and tourism.

Best Time to Visit Dublin & Midlands

Visiting Dublin & Midlands in Spring

Spring (March to May) in Dublin & Midlands is cool and fresh, with temperatures gradually rising from around 9°C in March to 15°C by May. Rainfall is moderate, with occasional sunny days and blooming landscapes. Mornings and evenings can still feel crisp, averaging between 4°C and 8°C. Parks and gardens across towns like Dublin, Athlone, and Portlaoise begin to blossom, making it an ideal time for cultural strolls and countryside visits.

Visiting Dublin & Midlands in Summer

Summer (June to August) is the warmest and sunniest season in Dublin & Midlands, though still mild by international standards. Daytime temperatures range from 17°C to 22°C, with occasional peaks of 25°C during warm spells. Nights are cooler at around 12°C to 14°C. Rain showers are still common but brief. This is peak season for festivals in Dublin, Mullingar, and Stradbally, and perfect for enjoying the outdoors and lively city events.

Visiting Dublin & Midlands in Autumn

Autumn (September to November) sees temperatures slowly decrease from 17°C in September to around 10°C in November. Nights can drop to 6°C by late autumn. The region experiences colourful foliage across its parks and greenways, particularly around Tullamore, Granard, and the Slieve Bloom Mountains. Rain increases slightly, but mild conditions make it a good time for hiking, food trails, and cultural festivals.

Visiting Dublin & Midlands in Winter

Winter (December to February) in Dublin & Midlands is cold and damp, with daytime highs averaging 6°C to 9°C and nighttime lows between 1°C and 4°C. Snow is rare but possible in upland areas like Laois and Offaly. Short daylight hours and overcast skies are common. Despite the chill, Dublin hosts festive lights and holiday markets, while countryside towns offer a quieter, more reflective travel experience.

Annual Weather Overview

January 7°C
February 8°C
March 9°C
April 12°C
May 14°C
June 17°C
July 18°C
August 18°C
September 16°C
October 13°C
November 11°C
December 9°C

How to get to Dublin & Midlands

Getting to Dublin & Midlands by Air

Dublin & Midlands is primarily served by Dublin Airport (DUB), Ireland’s busiest international airport. Located just north of Dublin city, it provides direct flights from major cities across Europe, North America, and the Middle East. The airport is well connected to central Dublin, as well as towns in the Midlands such as Athlone, Tullamore, and Mullingar, through bus and coach services. Car rental and private transfers are also available at the airport for travel throughout the region.

Getting to Dublin & Midlands by Train

Irish Rail offers frequent train services linking Dublin with Midlands towns including Portlaoise, Longford, Tullamore, and Athlone. Dublin’s main stations — Heuston Station and Connolly Station — serve as departure points for different Midlands routes. Trains provide a fast and scenic journey through the countryside, with multiple services running daily.

Getting to Dublin & Midlands by Bus

Intercity and regional bus services connect Dublin and its airport with most towns in the Midlands. Bus Éireann and private operators like Aircoach and Citylink run regular routes to Portarlington, Edenderry, Birr, and Mullingar, with multiple departures daily. Buses are equipped with Wi-Fi and comfortable seating, providing an affordable travel option.

Getting to Dublin & Midlands by Car

Driving to or within the Dublin & Midlands region is convenient thanks to a well-maintained motorway network. The M4, M6, and M7 motorways connect Dublin with key towns such as Tullamore, Athlone, Portlaoise, and Longford. Car hire is widely available in Dublin and at the airport, and the region’s towns are all within a 1–2 hour drive from the capital.

Festivals in Dublin & Midlands

St. Patrick’s Festival
When: March
Where: Dublin
A vibrant celebration of Irish culture and heritage featuring parades, music, dance, and various cultural events throughout the city.
More info: https://stpatricksfestival.ie/

One Dublin One Book
When: April
Where: Dublin
An annual initiative encouraging everyone in Dublin to read the same book during the month, fostering a city-wide book club atmosphere.
More info: https://dublin.ie/live/things-to-do/festivals/

Forest Fest
When: July
Where: Emo Village, Co. Laois
A three-day music and arts festival celebrating community, friendship, and family, featuring a diverse lineup of artists and performers.
More info: https://forestfest.ie/

Dublin Winter Lights
When: November to December
Where: Dublin
A mesmerizing display of light installations across the city, transforming Dublin into a winter wonderland during the festive season.
More info: https://dublin.ie/whats-on/

Athlone Drama Festival
When: May
Where: Athlone
A prestigious event showcasing the best in Irish amateur drama, with performances competing for the All-Ireland Drama Festival Trophy.
More info: https://www.midlandsireland.ie/visit/festivals/

Granard Booktown Festival
When: April
Where: Granard, Co. Longford
A literary festival celebrating books and reading, featuring author talks, workshops, and book-themed events throughout the town.
More info: https://www.midlandsireland.ie/visit/festivals/

Durrow Scarecrow Festival
When: July
Where: Durrow, Co. Laois
An imaginative festival where the village is adorned with creative scarecrow displays, accompanied by workshops, music, and entertainment.
More info: https://www.midlandsireland.ie/visit/festivals/

Fleadh Cheoil
When: August
Where: Mullingar
The world’s largest festival of Irish music and culture, attracting thousands for competitions, concerts, and sessions celebrating traditional Irish music.
More info: https://www.midlandsireland.ie/visit/festivals/

Electric Picnic
When: September
Where: Stradbally Hall, Co. Laois
A renowned music and arts festival featuring international and local artists across multiple stages, along with comedy, theatre, and art installations.
More info: https://www.midlandsireland.ie/visit/festivals/

National Ploughing Championships
When: September
Where: Ratheniska, Co. Laois
Europe’s largest outdoor agricultural event, showcasing ploughing competitions, machinery exhibitions, livestock shows, and entertainment.
More info: https://www.midlandsireland.ie/visit/festivals/