Day 5 Cycling the 32 counties of Ireland - Portlaoise
🚴🏾♂️ The Black Paddy Rolls into Portlaoise: Forts, Firsts & Fierce Craic
What’s the story, Portlaoise?!
It’s your boy Fabu D, back in the saddle and cruising into one of Ireland’s fastest-growing towns. Portlaoise might be known for its prison and roundabouts, but don’t be fooled—this place is packed with history, hustle, and heart.
I’m cycling around Ireland to raise awareness for Jigsaw, the incredible charity supporting young people with their mental health. Because let’s be real—life can be heavy, and sometimes you need someone to help carry the load. Jigsaw is that someone.
Now let’s talk Portlaoise. From ancient forts to modern vibes, this town’s got layers like a good lasagna.
---
🧠 A Word on Jigsaw
Before we dive into the madness, let’s take a moment. Jigsaw is doing powerful work—giving young people across Ireland a safe space to talk, to be heard, and to get the support they need. Mental health isn’t just a buzzword. It’s real, it’s raw, and it affects all of us.
This cycle isn’t just about the scenery—it’s about showing up for those who feel unseen. If you’re struggling, know this: you’re not alone. There’s help, there’s hope, and there’s healing.
---
🏰 First Impressions: Portlaoise’s Fortified Swagger
I rolled into Portlaoise with Guinness Zero in my bottle cage and a grin on my face. First stop? Fort Protector—the 16th-century stronghold that gave birth to the town. Built by English settlers in 1548, it was originally called Maryborough in honour of Queen Mary. The name changed in 1920, and now it’s proudly Portlaoise.
The fort’s still standing, tucked into the town centre like a historical Easter egg. I stood there imagining knights, rebels, and maybe a few confused tourists.
---
😂 Funny Portlaoise Facts (Because You Know I Love the Banter)
Alright, here’s some mad stuff I learned:
- Portlaoise was once called Maryborough, and the county was Queen’s County. The name change in 1920 was described by one historian as “a fit of pseudo-patriotism.” Spicy.
- In 2007, Rotimi Adebari became Ireland’s first Black mayor—right here in Portlaoise. That’s history with a capital H.
- Back in 1760, one voter said he’d vote for whoever “gives his wife most money.” That’s democracy, Irish-style.
- In 1945, after the Town Hall burned down, a local politician predicted an airport would be built in Market Square. Still waiting on that Ryanair flight to Cork.
- Portlaoise once had a plumber named Bond, James Bond. No joke. He lived at 53 Clonminam.
- In 1776, prisoners nearly escaped by tunnelling 13 feet under the jail. That’s commitment.
- Daniel O’Connell visited in 1843 and was reportedly “menaced by four drunken Orangemen and seven ugly women.” I don’t know what’s worse.
---
🎨 Art, Architecture & Unexpected Elegance
Portlaoise isn’t just roundabouts and retail parks—it’s got style. I passed SS Peter and Paul’s Church, a Gothic Revival beauty that dominates the skyline. Then I wandered through The People’s Park, where locals were walking dogs, sipping coffee, and living their best lives.
I even stumbled on a mural of Rotimi Adebari, reminding me that this town doesn’t just talk diversity—it lives it.
---
🗣️ Chatting with Portlaoise Legends
You know me—I can’t resist a good chat. I met a man named Paddy who told me he once saw a ghost in the Fort. I asked what it looked like. He said, “Like a lad who owed me money.”
I met a woman who runs a knitting club and swears her wool comes from psychic sheep. I didn’t ask questions—I just nodded respectfully.
---
🚴🏾♂️ Cycling Through Portlaoise’s Pulse
The roads here are lively, the traffic’s got rhythm, and the locals know how to wave. I passed through Clonminam, Borris Road, and even did a loop around the Midlands Park Hotel just to admire the architecture.
Portlaoise is a hub—connected to Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and the world. But it still feels like a community. That’s rare.
---
🧘🏾♂️ Mental Health Moments: Portlaoise’s Steady Beat
There’s something grounding about Portlaoise. Maybe it’s the history, maybe it’s the people, maybe it’s the fact that every second shop sells coffee. I sat in the park, sipping my Guinness Zero, and just breathed.
That’s what Jigsaw offers—space to breathe, to talk, to be. If you’re a young person feeling overwhelmed, reach out. You deserve peace.
---
🛏️ Portlaoise Hospitality: Beds, Bants & Breakfasts
I stayed in a local guesthouse run by a couple who insisted I try their homemade apple tart. I did. I nearly cried. The man told me he used to be a prison guard but switched to hosting cyclists because “they don’t try to escape.” Fair logic.
---
💚 Final Thoughts & Shout-Outs
Portlaoise, you’ve been a revelation. From forts to folklore, you’ve given me laughs, lessons, and a deeper appreciation for the Midlands.
To everyone who waved, cheered, or offered directions when I was clearly lost—thank you. To the dog who barked at me from a balcony—respect. To the county town itself—keep growing.
And to Jigsaw, the reason behind every mile: thank you for being the light in someone’s dark. You’re changing lives, one conversation at a time.
---
💚 Thanks for coming along on the ride!
If you’d like to support the cause, here’s the link:
👉 https://www.idonate.ie/blackpaddytour
Until next time,
Stay strong, stay smiling, and mind your mental health.
— Fabu D, The Black Paddy
