Gates of Portlaoise: A Photographic Look at Our Town’s Quiet Entrances

27/07/2025

Portlaoise is full of surprises, lots of them hiding in plain sight. And it's the little things that really catch your eye: a weathered gate, some peeling paint, or the twisty curls of ironwork. This series is a quiet celebration of those everyday gateways: places where public and private meet, where past and present linger.I hope you'll join me in seeing Portlaoise a bit differently, and maybe find some unexpected charm where you least expect it. 

This whole project actually started with one photo, a bright red gate I spotted on Coote St. What really grabbed me wasn't just the gate itself, but the view through it. That got me curious to find more unique gates around town.

1. St Peter's Church of Ireland, Grattan St

Red side gate, Coote St
Red side gate, Coote St

2. People's Park, New Road

People's Park Portlaoise
People's Park Portlaoise

3. Old St Peter's Church, Railway St

Old St Peter's, Railway St
Old St Peter's, Railway St

4. Graffiti Gate, Millbrook

Graffiti gate, Millbrook
Graffiti gate, Millbrook

5. Portlaoise Library, Main Street

Side gate, Church Avenue
Side gate, Church Avenue

I love how something as simple as a gate can make you pause. Whether it's full of history, a bit quirky, or just unexpectedly beautiful, these gates caught my eye as I went about my day. None of them are grand or famous, they're just part of the town, quietly doing their thing.

This isn't a full list, just a handful I liked enough to stop and photograph. I'm sure there are loads more tucked around corners I haven't turned yet. If you've got a favourite gate in Portlaoise, please let me know so I can add to the list.

Thanks for walking (and scrolling) with me.