Departure
We will leave for Tipperary from our agreed departing point by luxury
coach. Our first stop will be at the Gandon Inn for tea / coffee and scones.
The Gandon Inn is conveniently located off the motorway en route.
Holy Cross Abbey
This beautiful, restored 12th century Cistercian Abbey was founded by
Donal Mór O Brien on the banks of the majestic River Suir , four miles
from Thurles, Co.Tipperary. It houses relics of the True Cross and has been
a place of pilgrimage for centuries. During a guided tour your attention
will be drawn to the beautiful East Window, the Sedilia, the Hunting
Scene, Masons’Marks and the colourful Rose Window. The Abbey has
been in use as the parish church since its restoration in the 1970s.
Farney Castle
Tucked away on a quiet, country road, Farney Castle is just three miles
from Holy Cross Abbey. It is claimed that Farney Castle is the only round
tower, family home in Ireland. You will get a lovely, friendly welcome from
the owners –the Cullen family. Cyril Cullen is a very successful designer
of exclusive knitwear and porcelain. Following a tour of the castle, you
will have an opportunity to make some purchases in the castle’s gift shop.
Evening Meal
We return to the Gandon Inn for our evening meal. The hotel enjoys a
reputation for good food ,preparing all food in house from locally sourced
produce. A hand picked local entertainer will top off the night with music
and dancing.