Laois Walks Festival 2026 is set to be one of the highlights of the summer calendar, inviting locals and visitors alike to explore the stunning landscapes, hidden treasures and welcoming communities of County Laois. Running from Friday, June 19 to Sunday, June 28, 2026, the festival features 15 guided walks across 10 days, showcasing some of the county’s most spectacular mountains, lakes, forests, boglands and heritage sites.
The Laois Walks Festival is a community-led event designed to celebrate the county’s natural beauty while promoting health, wellbeing and outdoor recreation. Organised with the support of local communities and tourism partners, the festival offers walkers a unique opportunity to discover parts of Laois that are often overlooked, from tranquil woodland trails to breath-taking mountain viewpoints.
Whether you are an experienced hiker or simply looking for a family-friendly day out, there is a walk suited to every ability. Routes are graded to help participants choose the best option:
This inclusive approach makes the festival one of the most accessible outdoor events in the Midlands.
The 2026 programme includes a diverse range of locations across County Laois, highlighting the area’s rich mix of nature, history and culture. Featured destinations include:
Visitors can expect stunning scenery, local history talks, wildlife encounters and insights from knowledgeable community guides throughout the festival.
Many of the routes take participants through lesser-known trails and beauty spots that are not typically featured in mainstream tourism guides. From ancient woodlands to historic ruins and peaceful lakeside paths, walkers can experience the authentic heart of Laois.
Walking is one of the most effective forms of exercise for improving both physical and mental health. Festival organisers emphasise the positive benefits of spending time outdoors, connecting with nature and engaging with local communities.
The festival is run on a non-profit basis by dedicated volunteers and community groups. Every walk showcases local pride and provides an opportunity for visitors to engage directly with residents who are passionate about sharing their area’s history and heritage.
Families looking for an affordable summer activity will find plenty of options at the Laois Walks Festival. Several Grade C walks cater for children and casual walkers, with routes designed to be enjoyable, educational and accessible. Children’s participation is free, making it an excellent value event for family outings.
Tickets for the Laois Walks Festival 2026 are priced at €5 per adult, while children can attend free of charge. Registration takes place 30 minutes before each walk, with tickets available online through Eventbrite or on the day, subject to availability.
With its combination of stunning scenery, welcoming communities, rich heritage and varied walking routes, the Laois Walks Festival 2026 offers one of Ireland’s most enjoyable outdoor experiences. Whether you want to climb mountain trails, wander through ancient woodlands, explore historic landmarks or simply enjoy fresh air and great company, this festival provides the perfect opportunity to discover the very best of County Laois.
The Laois Walks Festival 2026 delivered ten days of unforgettable outdoor experiences, bringing together communities, families, walkers and visitors to explore some of County Laois’ most beautiful landscapes. The festival featured 15 guided walks from June 19 to June 28, showcasing mountains, lakes, forests, boglands and heritage sites across the county.
From the peaceful shores of Grantstown Lake to the scenic trails of Cullohill Mountain, Brittas Lake, Derryounce, Timahoe and Stradbally, participants were treated to spectacular views and hidden gems throughout the county.
📸 Community Spirit Volunteers, local guides and community groups welcomed walkers of all ages and abilities, demonstrating the community-led ethos that has become the hallmark of the festival.
📸 Breathtaking Scenery Walkers enjoyed panoramic views across Laois’ rolling countryside, woodland trails, tranquil lakes and elevated viewpoints that showcased the county’s natural beauty.
📸 Family-Friendly Adventures With numerous Grade C walks on offer, families had the opportunity to enjoy safe, accessible routes while learning about local history, wildlife and heritage.
📸 Heritage and History Many walks featured local experts who shared fascinating stories about ancient ruins, historic landmarks and the cultural significance of the landscapes visited.
📸 Health and Wellbeing The festival highlighted the benefits of spending time outdoors, encouraging participants to embrace walking as a way to improve physical fitness, mental wellbeing and social connection.
The Laois Walks Festival 2026 once again proved why it is one of the Midlands’ premier outdoor events. Through stunning scenery, engaging guides and strong community involvement, the festival offered participants a unique opportunity to experience the very best of County Laois on foot. Whether tackling challenging mountain hikes or leisurely lakeside strolls, walkers created lasting memories while discovering the county’s hidden treasures.
View the full photo gallery from Laois Walks Festival 2026 and relive the highlights of a fantastic celebration of walking, wellbeing and community in the heart of Ireland.
Follow Laois Walks Festival below on there social media page for updates from 2026 walks and for upcoming walking events 2026/27