Nature and biodiversity take centre stage in Offaly for Heritage Week
County Offaly will come alive this weekend as National Heritage Week 2025 begins, running from Saturday, August 16, to Sunday, August 24. This year’s theme, 'Exploring Our Foundations', shines a spotlight on the landscapes, species, and ecosystems that shape our identity and connect us to generations past.
From the wild expanse of Clara Bog to the tranquil trails of Derryounce Lakes and the vibrant wetland in the heart of Tullamore, visitors will have the chance to join guided walks, family workshops, and hands-on nature experiences led by expert guides and passionate local custodians.
Offaly Biodiversity Officer Ricky Whelan said: “It’s a wonderful time of year to explore nature locally, to take a few hours out of our busy schedules to slow down and experience the incredible biodiversity we have here in Offaly. Heritage Week offers something for everyone, young and old alike.”
One of Europe’s best-preserved raised bogs, Clara Bog will be at the heart of the celebrations. The award-winning visitor centre will host nature arts and crafts drop-in sessions from August 16 to 21, offering creative activities for families, including dragonfly model-making, colouring, and wetland-themed crafts. On Tuesday evening, August 19, from 6pm to 8pm, a guided tree identification walk in nearby Doory Wood will introduce participants to native species, their ecology, and their role in the wider landscape.
Elsewhere in the county, guided walks will explore Offaly’s rich diversity of habitats:
Forelacka–Camcor Nature Reserve (Saturday, August 16, 10.30am-2pm) – a woodland trail led by the Native Woodland Trust.
Tullamore Town Park & Wetlands (Tuesday, August 19, 10am-12pm) – an accessible morning nature walk with Biodiversity Officer Ricky Whelan.
Derryounce Lakes, Portarlington (Sunday, August 24, 10am-12pm) – a leisurely stroll highlighting wildflowers, birdlife, and insects.
All events are free to attend, with many suitable for all ages. Some activities, such as the Doory Wood tree-ID walk, require booking in advance.
Full details of Offaly’s Heritage Week programme, including booking information for selected events, are available at www.heritageweek.ie and www.offaly.ie.