While we all have destinations we like to return to again and again, it’s always great to discover somewhere new. Every year, Lonely Planet releases the top destinations for the upcoming year, and for 2026, there are a few surprises.
In its list of The 25 Best Destinations in 2026, which included exotic spots from Peru to Botswana, Tipperary in Ireland was highlighted as a must-visit. The travel experts, known for their detailed guide books, highlighted the reasons for the choice as the area’s incredible natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant food scene.
While the old song declares It’s a Long Way to Tipperary, Ryanair flights have made the journey much easier. There are direct flights to Shannon from London, Manchester, and Birmingham, which is about an hour’s drive from the town of Tipperary. You can also take a bus, which has one change in Limerick.
Stay in town and you’ll find lots of independent shops, cosy, traditional pubs, and colourful houses that give Tipperary a unique charm. You’ll find welcoming locally-owned accommodation such as Ach na Sheen Guest House. One visitor said: “From the first moment we felt like home. Sylvia, the owner, was really lovely and welcoming. The room and toilet were spotless, full Irish breakfast was served every morning along with intercontinental options.”
There are plenty of options for day trips, with several impressive castles to visit across Tipperary county. One of the most iconic is the Rock of Cashel, which sits atop a limestone cliff with stunning views across rolling green hills. The tower dates back to the 12th century and there’s also a gothic medieval cathedral, with large parts of the buildings still preserved.
Cahir Castle – which describes itself as one of the largest and best preserved in Ireland – sits on a rocky island on the River Suir. Dating back to the 13th-century, the castle was expanded over the centuries, and as you wander around, you can learn about the times it was captured and its role in the Irish Confederate Wars. Movie buffs may recognise the castle as a filming location for Excalibur, among other cinematic pieces and TV shows.
The lush green countryside that surrounds Tipperary is just waiting to be explored.One of the most popular hiking trails is the Glen of Aherlow, which sits between the Slievenamuck and Galtee Mountains. There are several walking trails that cater to different abilities. The shortest loop walk comes in at half an hour, or there are longer, hillier trails that can take around four hours. The longer walks can be tough, but you’re rewarded with views across the open moorland and can enjoy the natural beauty of mountain streams and unspoilt woodland.
One of Tipperary’s major exports is apples, and you can even visit The Apple Farm near Cahir to see them being grown. Wander round orchards and see the apples being grown, many of them destined to be turned into cider, before heading to the on-site shop to try samples and pick up some bottles to take home.
Tipperary also has a vibrant restaurant scene that’ll impress visiting foodies. The Bishop’s Buttery, which was awarded its first Michelin star in 2024, sits below the Cashel Palace Hotel. This upmarket, yet welcoming and cosy, restaurant has an ever-changing tasting menu that includes local delicacies from Irish lobster to Tipperary lamb.
Close to the Rock of Cashel, Chez Hans is set in a restored church that was turned into a restaurant back in 1968. This family-run restaurant still appears in the Michelin Guide, and offers a seasonal menu with international influences, with Irish ingredients used whenever possible. This includes salmon from Clare Island and scallops from Kilmore Quay.
Finish off your day in one of the town’s traditional pubs, many of which also offer relaxed dining alongside perfectly-poured pints.Try the colourful Nellie O’Brien’s for fish and chips, a pint of Guinness, and all-round cosy vibes. Jim O’ the Mills is a unique pub that only opens one day a week, Thursday. But if you’re visiting midweek, be sure to head down for live music, or sit and enjoy the pretty beer garden in summer. It’s the perfect place to relax after a long hike.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
