Take the long way through Tipperary

Tipperary is well worth a stop off - not only for its for its historical sites and welcoming hostelries, but also for its horseracing heritage, writes Gillian Nelis

The Rock of Cashel is Tipperary’s most famous landmark
The 14th-century Cahir Castle, situated on a small island in the river Suir, is the town’s main tourist attraction

If you happen to be going to a funeral in the village of Fethard in Co Tipperary, it might be sensible to wear flat shoes, because you’ll be taking the long way round.

The reason? Legend has it that in 1650, when Oliver Cromwell arrived there en route to Kilkenny, he fell from his horse on ...