The Wallis Arms is convenient to some of the biggest event centres in the country with concerts and events being held regularly at the Green Glens Arena (Millstreet), The INEC (Killarney) and the more intimate Glen Theatre (Banteer). There is a rich traditional Irish culture in the area, with local musicians playing in the pubs and horse fairs held in the town twice yearly. Millstreet and its surrounding areas has a large range of attractions for people of all ages and interests. The town hosted the 1993 Eurovision song contest and now regularly stages concerts, festivals and displays such as Disney on ice.
MILLSTREET (SRAID A'MHUILLINN)
The Present thriving community of c. 1500 people is a far cry from "the village consisting of a small inn, a mill and a half a dozen cabins" as Millstreet was described in the 1750s. There was little thought then of hosting Annual International Horse Shows or a Eurovision Song Contest 1993 (Green Glens).
Millstreet draws its unity from two traditions, from the two great estates, the Wallis Estate (Church of Ireland) and the McCarthy-O'Leary Estate (Roman Catholic). In fact the McMCarthy clan had been in possession of the whole area since c.1261 A.D. Their fortunes rose and fell with the various occupations of the English throne. Being on the "wrong" side in the 1641 Rebellion was their final mistake and by 1725 they had lost control of the Drishane part of their lands. Henry Wallis became the new owner.
The Wallis family were instrumental in the building of the Protestant Church (St.Anna's, only the tower now remains) and also a military barracks on the Main Street in 1790's. At the West End of the town lay the McCarthy-O'Leary Estate. In 1811 this family donated land to the Roman Catholics for the building of a church, a convent girls' school, a boys' school and a cemetery. By 1840 - these had been completed by the very energetic Fr.Fitzpartrick.
Recent history has not changed the character of the town but there have been subtle changes. The Carnegie Hall, built in 1912 is in keeping with the character of the town and now houses the Tourist Information Point, and Millstreet Museum.
www.millstreet.ie for more information about Millstreet.
, Theater in the Glen Theatre, or a good Flick at the Cosey Cinema Kanturk.
There are also many traditional Irish pubs in the area where the entertainment is mighty and the pints and conversations are flowing. Millstreet is also host to several events throughout the years for example:
- Annual Millstreet International Horse Show
- 2007 - 73rd International Caravan & Camping Rally
- 2006 - 29th European Juggling Convention
- 1994 - Steve Collins Vs Chris Eubank - WBO Title Boxing Match
- 1993 - Eurovision Song Contest
- Millstreet international Horse Show
- Horse Fairs
Millstreet country park accommodates for all, set in scenic area with lakes mountains, wetlands, and beautiful gardens there is a host of fun activities and interesting sights including Tours, Duck Races, Fishing, Country Walks, Historical Trails, Visitor Center and Restaurant. Millstreet Country Park
Millstreet Country Park which extends to 500 acres (located approx 6 kilometres from Millstreet Town) is a major tourist attraction.
Available for meetings, seminars corporate functions and all family occasions.
The Park is an ideal venue for group visits and offers excellent value for a special day out.
More Attractions
Millstreet is situated along the Blackwater Valley which is perfect for fishing and angling and scenic walks. People come from all over the world to fish on the green banks of the Blackwater overlooked by rolling hills and wild forests.
People come from all over the world to fish on the green banks of the Blackwater overlooked by rolling hills and wild forests.The Millstreet Area has a number of Antique and Furniture Shops that you can spend time hunting for bargains or that perfect present.
Restaurants: Whether your looking for good old Fish and Chips, a Romantic Dining Experience or a Hot and Spicy Dish the Millstreet area has it all. Just ask our staff and we can help you find what your looking for.
The Wallis Arms is well situated as a starting point to explore the province of Munster. To the west of Millstreet is Killarney which is the gateway to the Ring of Kerry. To the South is a Gealtacht where the locals speak Irish and has stunning rural scenery including Gougane Barra. To the South East is Cork City. To the East is Mallow which hosts the Mallow Races.