County Offaly is a non-coastal county situated in the central region of Ireland. It is part of the province of Leinster and is bordered by several other counties including Westmeath, Meath, Kildare, Laois, Tipperary, and Galway.
Known by its Irish name "Contae Uíbh Fhailí," County Offaly spans an area of approximately 2,001 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 77,961 (as of the 2016 census). Its name, Uíbh Fhailí, refers to the ancient kingdom of Uí Failghe, which dominated the area during the early medieval period.
The county's terrain is characterized by rolling hills, bogs, and some low-lying floodplains, offering diverse landscapes to explore. It is intersected by the River Shannon, Ireland's longest river, which forms the county's western boundary. County Offaly is rich in historical and archaeological sites, including ancient monastic settlements, castles, and various structures from different eras.
County Offaly also boasts economic diversity, with various industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, energy, and tourism contributing to its economy. Tullamore, the county town and largest settlement, is renowned for its whiskey production, as it is home to the famous Tullamore Dew Distillery.
In terms of governance, County Offaly is administered by Offaly County Council, which oversees local services, infrastructure, and planning within the county. The council is responsible for maintaining public facilities, promoting economic development, and enhancing the overall quality of life for its residents.
