“Many visitors come to Laois, passing through the midlands — our job is to remind them that there’s good reason to stay here for a little longer.” So says farmer and brewer David Walsh-Kemmis — his love of the county is as intoxicating as his recently launched craft beers. He welcomes me into Ballykilcavan Farm, his family’s home for 13 generations, and notes his delight that his children can grow up here surrounded by 400 acres of land and forestry — not to mention the abundance of wildlife.
“Being here means that we, as a family, can continue supporting our community,” he adds, “and through our brewery tours, give visitors another reason to stay in County Laois. ” As we explore the beautifully preserved 19th-century stable yard — complete with a lively dove house — David explains that to ensure the farm’s viability, a few short years ago, he diversified by opening the brewery that’s named after the farm and uses many of its resources. “We source the water from our well,” he explains.
“Along with our own barley, we’ve got a small, expanding hop garden.” Sign up to IrishCentral's newsletter to stay up-to-date with everything Irish! For many decades, Ballykilcavan Farm has claimed the country’s largest walnut tree — thanks to the instant success of their brewery, additional awards now weigh down their mantlepiece. One sip of their selection of beer, and it’s easy to understand the fuss.
The more I explore Laois, the more I realize .