River Walks Meet Rebel Tales In This Cozy Irish Town Bursting With Cider, Crafts, And Culture

County Tipperary sits snugly in the heart of Ireland. Known for its verdant fields, strong beef and dairy production, and some of Ireland's most famous historical landmarks, such as the Rock of Cashel, Tipperary is one location that should be on your ideal Irish travel itinerary. And if you are planning on exploring Tipperary, you should definitely check out the town of Clonmel, where river walks mix with rebel tales, cider, crafts, and Irish culture.

Situated directly on the River Suir at the south Tipperary border with County Waterford, Clonmel is a commercial center, bringing together businesses, artists, restaurants, and pubs to create a thriving community. The exact founding date of the town is unknown, though the walls are said to date back to the 13th century. Clonmel was a famous stronghold for Irish Confederate forces during the 1600s. They managed to hold off famed English commander Oliver Cromwell during a weeks-long siege. This knack for rebellion continued in Clonmel well into Ireland's eventual formation as an independent republic.

From Ireland's major travel centers, getting to Clonmel is easy. It's a two-hour drive from Dublin Airport, and an hour-and-a-half from Shannon International Airport in neighboring County Clare. Winding your way through bucolic fields dotted with cows and sheep, you'll understand why Clonmel stands for "honey valley" in the native language.

The River Suir is one of County Tipperary's main waterways, and has long-served Clonmel for recreational, commercial, and defensive purposes. Today, the river is  primarily a spot for folks to take in excellent town views, and walk the banks on The Suir Blueway, a 21km (33.7 miles) trail connecting Clonmel to other towns along the river. It's an easy-going trail that is perfect for walking, cycling, or even paddling at certain points.

In Clonmel, the Blueway passes along some important historical landmarks. A short walk off of the river brings you to The Main Guard. This stunningly restored building was originally constructed in the 1600s for use as a courthouse and barracks for the English dukes who controlled Ireland at the time. Today, The Main Guard serves up a fantastic historical exhibition and can be rented out as an event space.

Another great historical landmark worth visiting is the famous Cahir Castle. Only a 15-minute drive from Clonmel, and the eastern terminus of the Blueway, Cahir Castle is one of the largest and most well-preserved castles in Ireland. Originally built in the 12th century, the Cahir has served as a stronghold during the Irish Confederate Wars, and as a location for TV shows like "The Tudors." Today, visits come with excellent audiovisual exhibits that take you through the castle's long and storied history.

Ireland is known for its affinity for hearty stouts like the increasingly popular Murphy's and the ever stalwart Guinness — whose factory is one of the top tourist destinations in Europe. However, that is not all there is to drink on the Emerald Isle. In fact, Clonmel is the home of Bulmers Irish Cider, known internationally as Magners Cider. The two names come from the collaboration between Clonmel's William Magner and his business partner, Englishman H.P. Bulmer. The business and recipe began in 1935, and today celebrates nearly 90 years as Ireland's original cider. It can be found in pubs and package stores across Clonmel.

Apart from cider, the culture in Clonmel is also exceptional. The town is home to several museums and art centers that are well worth your while to visit. The Tipperary Museum of Hidden History showcases life through the ages in the county. It houses several unique artifacts, including a rare copy of Oliver Cromwell's death mask. A little token of the man who besieged the city over 400 years ago.

As far as arts are concerned, the South Tipperary Arts Centre hosts several classes and artistic exhibitions throughout the year. The Clonmel Junction Arts Festival occurs in July and showcases art, theatre, dance, music, and food vendors from across Ireland. It's a lively time that brings even more color to this fun and vibrant section of southern Ireland.