Midleton’s flagship tourist attraction is the Jameson Heritage Center, distiller of fine Irish Whiskey in Midleton since 1825. Visitors are welcomed with a complimentary glass of Jameson Irish Whiskey. The 18th century Mills, Maltings, Corn Stores, Warehouses and Kilns have been beautifully restored to create an outstanding heritage and visual center.

Midleton town is full of interesting historical buildings, many of them now privately owned and lovingly refurbished by their owners. The school, Midleton College, is one of the oldest schools in Ireland. Built in 1717 has amongst its past pupils John Philpott Curran and Issac Butt, founder of Home Rule League. The AIB Bank building in the High Street was built in 1899. An imposing red brick and terra-cotta structure, it is a fine example of the Queen Anne revival mould. Rose’s Coach Inn, once a hotel, then police barracks during the War of Independence, was designed by renowned architect Pugin who revived the Gothic Style in Church Building. The Town Hall built in 1789,is identified by a weather cock of larch on top of the clock tower, stands proudly in the main street.

Two churches of note in the township are St. John the Baptist Church, believed to be the site of the Cistercian Abbey with records dating back to 1302; and Church of the Most Holy Rosary distinguished by its 166ft spire.

To the west of Midleton lies Carrigtwohill, the site of Barryscourt Castle, family seat of the Barry family from the 12th to 17th centuries. The castle is now restored to its former glory with historical exhibition and restaurant.

To the north of Midleton is the Dungourney Open and Farm Museum, Cnoc A Ceo Leahy, displaying life as it used to be 100 years ago on a farm with horse drawn machinery, old tools, gardens , animals and an operational water mill.

Just outside Midleton is the picturesque medieval town of Cloyne, home of renowned hurler Christy Ring, and the location of the Round Tower, one of two remaining round towers of its kind in Ireland. It is the site of the monastery founded by St. Coleman .

Shanagarry is the center of crafts of East Cork. Stephen Pearce Pottery and Shangarry Knitwear and many other craft producers attract visitors from around the world. Nearby is the Ballymaloe Cookery School with magnificent formal continental style gardens.

For shopping and eating out, Midleton town has a wonderful range of eateries and shops.
Award winning restaurants, stylish cafes, character pubs and contemporary bars are all here. Shops offer elegant high fashion, hand-crafted Irish goods, home made foods, antiques, Waterford crystal, Belleck , lace and linen, designer items and more.

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