Things to Do in Limerick

King John’s Castle

On the banks of the Shannon River stands King John’s 13th Century fortress. The fortress was recently renovated to better explain its history, which includes medieval battles, a siege and, naturally, a lot of inter-kingdom trade. With a self-led tour and lots of interactive displays to explore, it’s also home to the best view of the stunning Shannon River that you’ll find.

King Johns Castle

Thomond Park

The home to Munster, the iconic rugby team, representing Ireland’s south province, plays the majority of its home games at this smart, modern stadium. Thomond Park also hosts the occasional gig and colourful storytelling tours for non-event days. Munster is at the very core of Limerick life, making this an essential stop-off.

Thomond Park

St. Mary’s Cathedral

One of two cathedrals in the city, St. Mary’s has been at the heart of Limerick’s religious life since the 12th Century. Being the oldest building in the city, much of Limerick has grown up around this spot and you can touch a little of that history in the scratch marks around the west door where defenders of the city sharpened their swords, during the city siege, eight centuries ago.

The Milk Market

Limerick’s home to all the locally produced fresh food you could ask for (and a growing number of impressive foodie offerings based upon farm products, in particular). The iconic Milk Market is full of great finds, while its surroundings date back more than a century and-a-half, making it one of Ireland’s most enticing markets. While it can be quiet during the week, it really comes to life on bustling Saturdays.

Terra Nova Fairy Garden

For many, the mythical side of Irish life is one of the great Irish experiences. As legend would have it, Terra Nova is a magical garden that contains an ancient fairy fort dating back thousands of years, though the addition of modern fairy statues and magical touches will probably entice most visitors. Atmospheric, to say the least.

Adare

Adare is your typical picture-perfect postcard of a 13th Century village, set against a rural river bank and is just gorgeous. The Heritage Centre, creamery,manor and abbey make it a very worthwhile way of spending a day and gives you a very different sense of what Limerick is, other than the city itself.

Adare Village

The Hunt Museum

A locally themed, ever-changing museum displaying the largest private collection in Ireland, The Hunt Museum mixes art, antiques, early Irish history and the establishment of Christian institutions. There’s a strong collection from Greece and Italy too but it’s the local history, covered in detail through eclectic items, ranging from tribal drinking horns to Celtic cross carvings, that’s the must-see.

Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum

This appealing mishmash of attractions hosts a full-size replica of a B314 flying boat, an exhibition on the history of Shannon River and a nearby 1940s style tearoom. There are also Irish coffees served in this spot that claims to have invented them. The exploration of 1930s and 1940s trans-Atlantic flights, once the the preserve of the uber-rich, is also a highlight.