Visiting out-of-the-way spots in Ireland by slow (very slow) bike or public transport like Dublin Bus, Irish Rail and Bus Éireann.
I got off the Dublin-Cork train at Ballybrophy and just out the road came across this huge complex in the middle of the countryside: The Donaghmore Famine Workhouse Museum.
It also includes an agricultural museum because the site became a local co-op which eventually was part of the giant Avonmore group.
Miriam Dunne, the guide, is right - the place is really calm and peaceful.
She gave a very good tour, pointing out, for example, that the ground floor windows are raised up to deny inmates the opportunity to catch an accidental glimpse of their loved ones who may be in a group passing by.
Donaghmore Workhouse, Laois, Ireland
The story of Donaghmore Workhouse, an extract from the Laois Heritage Trail promotional film.
An Abarta Heritage Production for Laois County Council with support from Fáilte Ireland (Language: English)
The Story Of Donaghmore
The story of Donaghmore Workhouse, in County Laois, Ireland. Produced in 2016 by Abarta Heritage. Published by Laois County Council, with the support of Fáilte Ireland, through the Ireland's Ancient East Programme. See more at laois.ie/heritage.