Best of Ireland Series - Adare Guide 2015

Adare THE BEST OF IRELAND Series

2015

COMPLIMENTARY COPY

Village of the Welcomes

ES

INCLUD

MAP Experience Ireland’s Prettiest Village

County Limerick, Ireland

Adare Guide 

Editor: Rachael Finucane Contributing Photographers: Sean Curtin, Dermot Comerford, Lorcan O’Connell, Rachael Finucane and others (see individual photos for details).

Contributing Writers: Rachael Finucane and Bríana Walsh.

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Adare Guide Contents THE BEST OF IRELAND Series

Contents

4.

A Welcome to All

6.

Explore Adare’s rich past and vibrant present.

8.

Samco’s Growing Power

9.

History & Heritage

Take a trip into the past and see some of Adare’s fine structures and landmarks.

16.

Adare Heritage Centre

The centre at the heart of Adare Village, providing visitor information, retail outlets and an eatery.

41.

The celebrations, both occasional and regular, which showcase Adare’s history, spirit and people.

Visit, stay, or just indulge in some of the fantastic facilities offered by Adare’s hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs.

Culture & Events

An introduction to Adare by Lady Geraldine Dunraven.

Storied Adare

19.

23.

Adare for Activities

Pursuits for all ages whether you want to relax or get your adrenaline pumping.

29.

Food & Drink

Eat, drink and be merry! Experience the best of Adare’s restaurants, cafés and pubs.

Places to Stay

46.

Adarevillage.com

47.

On Adare’s Doorstep

More places of interest for all the family, which are only a short distance from Adare.

53.

Useful Information

Information on shops and services in Adare.

35.

54.

A guide to Adare’s shopping and some of the independent retailers that make an impression.

Get to know Adare using our village guide.

Shopping

Map of Adare Village

A Tourism and Marketing Initiative from Southern Marketing Design Media For enquiries about inclusion in updated editions of this guide, please contact 061-310286 / info@southern.ie No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers. © Southern Marketing Design Media 2015.

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Adare Guide Welcome

Welcome to All of you, our Visitors 4|

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Adare Guide Welcome

Oh Sweet Adare Oh Lovely Vale Oh Soft Retreat of Sylvan Splendour Gerald Griffin, 1803 - 1840

T

hese words, written by 19th century poet, one Gerald Griffin, describe the village which my family ancestors chose to live in, arriving here in the early 17th Century.

“

Our village is amazing. We are approximately 1,500 – 2,000 people living within and trading within its environs

They continue to welcome you, our visitors, as I would also like to do.

Adare, Ath Dara “Ford of the Oak” in modern translation. The Ford was an oak passage across the River Maigue, now replaced by a “new” 12th Century arch bridge across which you may pass on your way arriving or leaving.

Our family name is Wyndham Quin.

The Wyndham came with a lady called Caroline Wyndham when she married and came to live here in 1812. The Quin comes from Corofin in County Clare.

The names were joined in 1822.

You – our visitor, “did you know” – that you may be one of the hundreds of thousands who have chosen to explore Adare.

Our village is amazing. We are approximately 1,500 – 2,000 people living within and trading within its environs. We have small cosy

commercial shops, home grown beef, beautiful clothes, gorgeous shoes, and magical antiques, safe cosy pubs – good coffee and good music and singing.

We have three Abbeys all dating from the 13th to 15th Century. Two in full time use and the third in the middle of a golf course – battle scarred past – bearing up to modern day golf balls.

Into Adare village in the 1940’s came an idea via my mother-in-law, the late Nancy (Yuille) 6th Countess of Dunraven. She brought the idea of the first public Christmas Tree which each year is lit outside our Village Hall in mid December. It is like a beacon for the remembrance of Christmas and leads visitors up the main street – or onwards to the next village or town.

I married and came to live here in 1969 – my husband was Thady Wyndham Quin, the 7th Earl of Dunraven and Mount Earl.

We have one magical daughter, born to Adare Manor in 1972. My husbands’ ancestor, Caroline Wyndham, married in 1812 and built Adare Manor as you see it today, however – it took 35 years to build. Today under new ownership it is a hotel and continues to attract you, our visitors, from worldwide.

Adare has welcomed some delightful guests over the years. The Monaco Royal Family, The Princess Royal of England, Mrs Eleanor Roosevelt, President William Jefferson Clinton and Mrs. Clinton, many musicians, politicians, film stars and many others and we will continue to do so into the future.

I sincerely hope you may enjoy our village as much as we love it.

Lady Geraldine Dunraven Countess of Dunraven & Mount Earl The Best Of Ireland Series

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Adare Guide Welcome

Storied Adare So much to see...

As the old saying goes “from small acorns, great oaks grow” and that is certainly the case with Adare, which has grown into its renown as one of the prettiest and friendliest villages in Ireland.

Today it is a small village with a big difference. Not only does it have an extremely rich history but in its present state, it has a strong community spirit and a booming tourist trade.

Adare in Irish is ‘Áth Dara’, which translates as “the Ford of the Oak” for its setting amid water and woodland. It was founded on a tributary of the mighty River Shannon, the River Maigue, in the 13th century. The lands were originally ruled by the Fitzgeralds—Earls of Kildare.

Situated 16km from the larger Viking settlement in Limerick, Adare was regarded as a strategic stronghold.

Much like today, Adare had a good retail sector and became known as a market town. By the Middle Ages, it was a large settlement boasting Desmond Castle and three monasteries—the Franciscan, Augustinian and Trinitarian Abbeys.

These still exist, either as ruins or in their entirety.

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The 1600s in Ireland brought turbulent times and conflict. It is thought that the original settlement on the Northern banks of the Maigue was destroyed over time. There was a revival in the 18th century when the Dunraven family built the manor. The village sprang up around this estate as it was mostly populated by workers.

Around the 1820s, the Earl of Dunraven took it upon himself to design a layout for the village. He built a lot of new buildings and houses including the famous thatched cottages on Main Street, which he rented to tenants.

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A small village with a big difference

The Dunraven family has made an incalculable contribution towards preserving and restoring sites in and around Adare as well as donating a lot of land to this end.

Adare Guide Welcome

© Sean Curtin The ‘new’ Adare Manor was started in the 1830s and took over 20 years to build. Legend has it that the Earl was hobbled with gout and his wife, Lady Caroline Wyndham, urged him to take on a new project to occupy him.

The result was an opulent, neo-Gothic ‘calendar house’. The Earl did not live to see it finished but his son completed the project; it remained as the family seat until 1982.

It was bought in the late eighties by the Kane family from Florida and they restored it above and beyond its prior glory. Today it is a luxury, five star hotel and part of the estate is occupied by a championship golf course.

Modern Adare has much to recommend it. The village has two other four star hotels in the form of one-time estate coach house and old world hotel, the Dunraven Arms and the modern, Fitzgerald’s Woodlands House Hotel.

Many more guests stay in high quality bed and breakfast and self-catering

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Adare is a

multiple winner in the prestigious, nationwide Tidy Towns Competition

accommodation in the village and surrounds.

It has another fine golf course, Adare Manor Golf Resort, which was built by an Earl of Dunraven. This is just one of many popular activities to do around Adare. Sports of all types are played, particularly Gaelic Games.

Other outdoor pursuits such as hiking and fishing are also prevalent. It has a lovely village park, great for a stroll in any weather.

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Adare is a foodie heaven with numerous fine cafés and restaurants as well as several well-known pubs. The stores here are brimming over with everything from fashion to art; there is something for everyone.

The village hosts regular events, with particular focus on the culture and heritage of the area.

Adare is a multiple winner in the prestigious, nationwide Tidy Towns Competition. It won the overall national title in 1976. A local committee gives time voluntarily to keep the village looking its best. It was the tidiest town in County Limerick in both 2013 and 2014. The village achieved 312 points in 2014—five up on the 2013 score.

The beautiful village and surrounding countryside attracts many visitors from far and wide. The village aims to extend a ‘Céad mile fáilte’ to each and every visitor and ensure their time in Adare is an unforgettable experience. |7

Adare Guide Samco

Samco’s Growing Power

Samco Agricultural Manufacturing Ltd, an award winning company, was established 17 years ago on the outskirts of Adare Village.

The patented Samco 3-in-1 machine was developed to guarantee local farmers a crop of quality forage maize in a cool, less than favourable climate for maize corn growing.

The Samco System now offers farmers around the world a cost-effective way of growing maize in regions where the crop could not traditionally be produced because of climate and soil conditions.

The revolutionary system involves the use of an integrated 3-in-1 maize drill that sows maize corn seed; sprays a preemergence herbicide on the soil; and lays a thin layer of biodegradable film over the soil. This effectively provides a minigreenhouse effect and increases air and

soil temperatures that protects the young seedlings from adverse weather and late frosts. The Samco System can be used in a range of climatic conditions globally.

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Offers farmers

around the world a costeffective way of growing maize

As well as manufacturing the machine itself, Samco also manufactures the biodegradable film for its system and is actively involved with other companies in the research and development of film types. Samco carry out many trials worldwide testing maize seed hybrids and weed control formulations each year to ensure total customer satisfaction.

Crop growing around the world is changing and Samco is playing a big part in this change. Samco was awarded ‘Best Exporter of the Mid-West Region’ in 2012 and in 2013 they were finalists in the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and ‘Best Overall Company of the Year’ at the Limerick Chamber Regional Business Awards. Samco has just been short listed as one of Ireland’s ‘Best Managed Companies’ by Deloitte.

Samco is visited by clients from all over the world to view their extensive trial plots in Adare and the company regards itself to be very fortunate to be situated on the outskirts of such a beautiful village.

Samco’s clients and staff use all the local amenities and take full advantage of Adare’s wonderful hotels and restaurants. Samco takes great pride in showing visitors around the historic village, which the Shine Family has been synonymous with for hundreds of years.

Proud to be an “Irish Family Business” and based in Adare, Samco looks forward to many more years supporting both the local economy and farmers worldwide.

For more information on Samco and its products, call 061-396176 or see www.samco.ie.

Main Pic: Samuel Shine, MD Samco, Gordon Shine, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney, Matthew Shine and Robert Shine, Director Samco.

Bottom Left: Samco’s visitors from the UK, who stayed at Adare Manor during summer 2014.

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Adare Guide History & Heritage

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Adare abounds with rich history and strong heritage, which remains ever present in its monuments, its streets and its people.

History

&Heritage The Best Of Ireland Series

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Adare Guide History & Heritage

History & Heritage

Steeped in Desmond Castle

The majestic Desmond Castle has been overlooking the River Maigue from the north bank since the 13th century.

The medieval fortified castle - one of the few existing examples of a Norman castle in Europe - consists of a large square keep behind huge walls and a moat.

You can imagine yourself supping with the Earls of Desmond in the great hall, which has a stunning view of the river through the original windows.

It is thought that there has been a fortress on the site since the late 12th century, built by the rulers of the area - the O’Donovans. It then passed on to the Fitzgerald clan, who most likely built

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the structure still there today, before the Desmond family took over.

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One of the few existing examples of a Norman castle in Europe

It is situated close to the main road-bridge on the N21 approaching Adare Village from Limerick and the view from there is impressive.

There is ongoing conservation and restoration work at the castle so public access is restricted to supervised tours in the summer months, which can be organised through Adare Heritage Centre on 061-396666.

Adare Guide History & Heritage

Augustinian Friary

Augustinian Friary This friary dates back to the 14th century and was formerly known as the ‘Black Abbey’ because the friars wore a black habit.

The first Earl of Kildare, John Fitzthomas Fitzgerald, invited the friars to Adare and founded the building around 1315.

“

restoration; it retains many original features including the 15th century square tower.

In 1807, it became the local Church of Ireland parish church, St Nicholas, and is still in regular use today. St Nicholas National School is now situated in the former abbey’s refectory.

The church has several monuments to the Dunraven family, who carried out a lot of restoration work throughout the 19th century. Caroline, the dowager Countess of Dunraven, was responsible for most of the magnificent stained glass windows.

The friary is in good condition because of consistent preservation and restoration

The friars lived and worshipped in peace until the reign of Henry VIII and his policy of suppressing Irish monasteries.

Before the end of the 16th century, the Augustinians fled to Limerick City.

The friary is in good condition because of consistent preservation and The Best Of Ireland Series

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Adare Guide History & Heritage

Trinitarian Abbey 061-396172 www.adareparish.ie

The Catholic Holy Trinity Church is on the site of what was once the Trinitarian Abbey on Main Street, which is nearly eight centuries old.

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The church has some beautiful ornamentation such as a bronze screen designed

by Pugin

Founded around 1230, the church underwent significant restoration in the 19th century and is currently raising money towards its restoration fund, a testament to the great community spirit in Adare.

The monastery was called the ‘White Monastery’ because of the colour of the order’s habits; after its suppression during the Reformation it descended into ruin. The remains of the tower, nave and part of the choir of the church were incorporated into the present day

structure when the Earl of Dunraven rebuilt it in 1811. Two original ‘piscinas’ (sacred basins) were preserved from the ancient church.

In 1852, the third Earl of Dunraven made further improvements like lengthening the nave and adding a porch and new chapel. The church has some beautiful ornamentation such as a bronze screen designed by Pugin; numerous stained glass windows and some striking statues.

Trinitarian Abbey 12 |

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Adare Guide History & Heritage

Franciscan Friary The ruins of the Franciscan Friary, sometimes called the ‘Poor Monastery’, are located just outside Adare village within the grounds of Adare Manor Golf Club.

Thomas, Earl of Kildare, and his wife founded the friary in 1464. It was consecrated two years later and was dedicated to St Michael the Archangel.

The ‘poor’ label came from the fact that the friars were from the order of the ‘Minors of the Stricter Observance’ and depended on the kindness of others.

The friars faced many challenges. The friary was briefly suppressed in 1539 and those who returned in 1573 were expelled again eight years later.

Although the friary is exposed to the elements, the semi-intact structure is in reasonably good condition and a lot of the architectural features have been preserved. It includes a tower, nave, cloisters and living quarters.

The site is accessed through the golf club so watch out for flying golf balls and shouts of “Fore!” Visitors should check in with the clubhouse on 061-396204, before going onto the course to ensure it is safe to proceed.

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timeline

Adare’s History 12th Century First reports of a settlement in the area. Fortress founded 1230 Trinitarian Abbey founded

1316 Augustinian Priory founded

1390-1410 Stone bridge into Adare built

1464 Franciscan Friary founded

1536 Fortress is surrendered to the Earls of Desmond; it becomes known as Desmond Castle

1811 Trinitarian Abbey is restored to be the Catholic parish church by the Earl of Dunraven

1820s Second Earl of Dunraven redesigns streets of Adare

1832 Building begins on Gothic-style Adare Manor

1852 Major restoration of Augustinian Priory begins

1911 Adare Village Hall built

1984 Adare Manor is sold to American, Tom Kane, who later restores it to become a luxury hotel

1995 Adare Golf Club championship course is added on Adare Manor grounds

2008 Last time Adare senior hurlers won the county championship (for the fourth time in seven years)

2011 Seventh Earl of Dunraven passes away, leaving the title to lapse | 13

Adare Guide History & Heritage near the ruin of the Franciscan Abbey at least one time and a stone now marks the place. The local Methodist community holds an annual meeting on this spot.

­Adare Methodist Church

­ dare Methodist A Church Black Abbey Road 061-396236

Adare Methodist Church and sister congregation in nearby Ballingrane form the Adare & Ballingrane Methodist Circuit, which is one of the most historic circuits in Ireland.

Adare Village Park/ Washing Pool In the heart of the village is a pretty oasis and gathering place in the shape of the public park.

The land for the park, like a lot of Adare, was once part of the massive Dunraven estate. It has winding, tree-lined paths to go for a pleasant meander and benches to lounge on.

The first Methodist chapel in Adare was built around 1794 but the present church dates to 1873 when the Countess of Dunraven laid the foundation stone.

There have been several additions over the years.

John Wesley, founder of the Methodist Church, visited the local area on several occasions from the mid 1750s to 1778. It is said that he preached under an ash tree The ‘washing pool’ - beside the park’s entrance - is a small triangular pool with access to a local stream. It was once a watering hole for animals and horses. But in the days before washing machines, the women of the village gathered here to wash clothes and exchange local news (and gossip no doubt!)

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Today, there are

an estimated 14 million Methodists in America

Worshippers from this general area emigrated to the United States and established the church there. Today, there are an estimated 14 million Methodists in America.

The weekly Sunday service is at 10.15am (Ballingrane at 11.45am).

Without the benefit of detergents, they would have had to do their washing on ‘spittle stones’ on the stream bed or by pounding the clothes with wooden mallets.

The pool was restored during the European Architectural Heritage Year in 1975.

The park is carefully maintained with trimmed green spaces and colourful flower-beds dotted around. A small tributary of the river Maigue also runs through it.

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In the heart of the village is a pretty oasis

A prominent feature is a lovely thatched wooden gazebo, which plays a part in village events and is a popular photographic background for the many weddings that take place in Adare all year round.

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Adare Guide History & Heritage

Adare people

A Long Line of Dedication A place is nothing without its people and there have been many figures, past and present, who have shaped Adare into what it is today.

The Quin family has been instrumental in the history of Adare and the wider area. This true Gaelic family is descended from the Chiefs of the Clan Hy Ifearna and eventually became the Earls of Dunraven. Valentine Quin—an ancestor of Thady Quin—built the first Quin manor at Adare by

the River Maigue. His grandson, also called Valentine, was made a Baronet of Great Britain in 1781—advancing to the title of Baron and then Viscount.

He became Viscount Adare and the first Earl of Dunraven and Mount-Earl in 1822.

Just two years later, he was succeeded by his son, Windham Henry Quin.

The second earl was afflicted by gout and was encouraged by his wife, Lady Caroline, to undertake an ambitious restoration of his home to occupy himself. This little ‘project’ started in 1832 resulted in what is now the magnificent Adare Manor Hotel. The building work provided much needed labour for local people in a time of great poverty and famine.

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By that time, the earl was the biggest landowner in the area and his estate was many thousands of acres. Around this colossal estate, the village of Adare sprang up with many of the villagers working on it.

Successive earls and their spouses have made an unparalleled contribution to Adare. They made generous financial and land bequests to both Catholic and Protestant institutions. They funded many public buildings, houses and restoration projects.

The seventh Earl, Thady WyndhamQuin played an active role in the community until his death in 2011 and his wife, Lady Geraldine, continues to do so. | 15

Adare Guide Adare Heritage Centre

Adare Heritage Centre

Adare Heritage Centre 061-396666 info@adareheritagecentre.ie www.adareheritagecentre.ie

A

www.facebook.com/AdareHeritageCentre

dare’s rich history is a treasure trove just waiting to be discovered and the natural first port of call for visitors is the charming Adare Heritage Centre.

Conveniently located on the main street with a large car/coach park at the rear, the complex embodies the tourist information point, local library, a historical exhibition, restaurant, craft shops and Curran’s heraldic service.

The imposing montages of photographs and depictions of Adare when you walk in the front entrance give an impression of a village that is extremely proud of its past.

The tourist information point to the right offers a free map to visitors and the knowledgeable staff can offer advice on things to see and do, as well as information on nearby accommodation and amenities. The information point also carries a variety of Ireland, Limerick and Adare-themed merchandise.

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Adare’s rich

history is a treasure trove just waiting to be discovered

The historical exhibition located within the centre is open to visitors free of charge and offers a reconstruction of

the foundation of Adare and its progress through the ages. It traces Adare’s eventful past including the arrival of the Normans, the construction of the abbeys in the Middle Ages and the instrumental role of the Earls of Desmond.

A guided tour of Adare Village and the Desmond Castle, one of the few authentic Norman castles in Europe, is also available throughout the summer season.

Desmond Castle The Best Of Ireland Series

Adare Guide Adare Heritage Centre

Dovecote Restaurant 061-396449 info@adareheritagecentre.ie www.adareheritagecentre.ie

www.facebook.com/AdareHeritageCentre

The Dovecote is all about casual dining without compromising on quality of cuisine.

The service is fast and friendly. The room is bright and airy with colourful work by local artists adorning the walls.

There is a terrace with outdoor seating too.

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Bright and airy

with colourful work by local artists adorning the walls

This restaurant is especially known for its homemade fare and selection of delicious quiches. Breakfast is served daily from 9am and lunch menu options are worth checking out. Browse the hot food or salad counters for something delectable or select from one of the daily specials.

Soup, sandwiches and a variety of salads are available. If you would prefer a special treat, the homemade dessert menu offers a wide range. Select from the freshly brewed coffee menu.

The Dovecote also provides a home catering service; why not ask one of the team to discuss your individual catering needs?

Curran’s Heraldry

Curran’s Heraldry 061-396961 info@curransheraldry.com www.curransheraldry.com

The family crest experts at Curran’s Heraldry can shed light on family names, histories and coats of arms and this unique knowledge is within your grasp.

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A shop of impeccable quality, Curran’s Heraldry is a family business with its own unique history

Highly recommended on TripAdvisor with comments such as “In all of Ireland I didn’t find such a comprehensive heraldry shop of impeccable quality”, Curran’s Heraldry is a family business with its own unique history.

It dates back to the late 1800s when an ancestor of the present owner, G.P Curran, took a special interest in the intriguing field of family name histories and coats of arms.

The visitor outlet in Adare Heritage Centre contains the largest repository of Irish, British and European family crests available anywhere today. If your crest is not in the store, they can ship it to you.

From their database of over 200,000 Irish, British and European family names, they can print a beautiful family history scroll on the spot.

Curran’s Heraldic workshop is located at Ballycasey Design Centre in Shannon, Co. Clare (061-362460).

location

Nearby Towns & Cities Dovecote Restaurant

Adare is situated on the N21­, giving it an ideal location for all visitors.

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Distance

Time

Limerick

19km

15 min

Ennis

55km

45 min

Shannon Airport

40km

30 min

Tralee

79km

1hr

Cork

94km

1hr 10 min

Galway

116km

1hr 15 min

Waterford

142km

1hr 50 min

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Adare Guide Adare Heritage Centre

Black Abbey Crafts

Black Abbey Crafts 061-396021 blackabbeycrafts@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/blackabbeycrafts

Taking its name from a term commonly used to describe Adare’s Augustinian Abbey, this craft shop has a large selection of Irish made gift items. It has built a reputation for having that special item to suit every taste.

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The range is extensive with a great selection of silver and some very unique ceramic pieces

Limerick was once renowned for the intricate production of lace and Black Abbey Crafts stocks a nice selection.

The shop also stocks a wide range of Irish linen including doilies, napkins, tablecloths and more.

Black Abbey Crafts also has quite a bit of jewellery on display. Many items have a Celtic influence but the range is extensive with a great selection of silver and some very unique ceramic pieces.

The shop’s costume jewellery display and amazing Irish made ceramic figures are definitely worth a look.

There is something for everyone here including pottery, food, novelties, soaps, and the full range of Irish souvenirs.

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Adare Woollens

Adare Woollens 061-396922 info@adarewoollens.com www.adarewoollens.com

The tagline on the sign of Adare Woollens reads “Look good, feel good” and how true it is!

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There is

something to suit every taste from classic to casual

Did you know?

Olympic athlete, Niall O’Shaughnessy, was born in Adare in 1955. In his career, he competed in the 800 metre and 1,500 metre events at age 20 in the Olympic Games in Montreal in 1976. There is a running trail in Adare to mark this achievement.

It follows a 2.3km loop of Adare Village. He attended the University of Arkansas and currently resides in the USA.

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In walking through you will be greeted by the array of Irish products from the familiar Aran sweater to the more unusual handcrafted leathers and sterling silver.

The shelves abound with an array of styles, colours and textures. It doesn’t matter if you are shopping for yourself or another, there is something to suit every taste from classic to casual.

The selection includes famous Irish fashion knitwear, men’s and ladies hats and caps, warm and fashionable scarves, children’s clothing, Celtic and dress jewellery and perfumes.

Have your purchases mailed worldwide, letting you travel lightly.

Adare Guide Culture & Events Adare Weekend of Welcomes 2013 Š Sean Curtin

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Adare has a variety of festivals and events to enjoy so whatever the time of year or your interest, there is something for everyone.

Culture & Events The Best Of Ireland Series

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Adare Guide Culture & Events

Events Galore!

Adare Weekend of Welcomes 2013 © Sean Curtin

Adare may be small but it hosts festivals and other events throughout the year, as well as a proud history of hosting prominent events.

F

éile Na Maighe is Adare’s annual festival, which celebrates the unique culture, history and heritage of the area and is generally held in May. It drew inspiration from its previous incarnation in the 1970s when it was held in honour of the 18th century Maigue poets, or ‘Filí na Máighe’, and took place all over east Limerick.

The engaging programme aims to include poetry readings, live concert performances, workshops, street entertainment and traditional music sessions. Events vary year on year.

Whatever incarnation it takes, song and ‘spraoi’ often echo through the streets of Adare. The village’s pubs, hotels and even local churches regularly play host to live music and concerts. Adare Heritage Centre also hosts events year round like the annual Culture Night, which is a nationwide initiative.

Adare Village Hall, established in 1911 by the Dunraven family, hosts a variety

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of events big and small all year round.

Every Saturday, it is the site of the village market from 10am-2pm. The market sells fresh fruit and vegetables, baked goods and more. It is also the venue for the Adare Christmas Fair and more.

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Adare Village

Hall, established in 1911 by the Dunraven family, hosts a variety of events big and small all year round

Adare to Survive—a 7.5km military style obstacle race in Clonshire Equestrian Centre and the only event of its type in the region—has been running since 2013. The challenging course features man-made and natural occurring military style obstacles designed to test body and mind. The tagline is:

Adare Guide Culture & Events

© Adare to Survive

© Adare to Survive “Endeavour, Endure and Enjoy” and competitors are urged to do all three. The September event is a welcome boost to the local economy and more than 5,000 people are expected to pass through the village on the day of the 2015 event.

For horseracing enthusiasts, Limerick Racecourse is located nearby in Patrickswell. The course—which has top class hospitality and conferencing facilities—holds several meetings a year, including Twilight Racing in the summer and the Christmas Racing Festival in late December.

The village is a big name in the world of golf and some of the sport’s most outstanding players have graced the local fairways for prestigious events.

Adare Golf Club’s championship course, on the picturesque 840 acre grounds of the Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort, has hosted the Irish Open, the Ladies World Cup of Golf, the JP McManus Invitational Pro Am and the Donal Walsh Celeb-AM Golf Classic to name but a few.

Adare Golf Club hosted the McManus Pro Am event in 2005 and again in 2010.

The brainchild of Limerick businessman and philanthropist, JP McManus, the proceeds from the tournament are given to various charities around the mid-west region. Over €95m has been raised since the inaugural tournament in 1990.

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More information on festivals and events in Adare, Limerick City and wider county Limerick can be found in local media and on websites such as www. adarevillage.com and www.limerick.ie.

The village is a big name in the world of golf

World-class golfers have taken part such as Tiger Woods, Ernie Els, Colin Montgomerie, Darren Clarke, Pádraig Harrington, Jim Furyk, Martin Kaymer, Graeme McDowell, Sandy Lyle and Paul McGinley.

Celebrities and sports personalities have also played alongside the pros. These include Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Douglas, Hugh Grant, Catherine ZetaJones, Michael Flatley and Niall Quinn.

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Adare Guide Culture & Events

DESTINATION ADARE Famous Visitors to Adare Adare attracts thousands of visitors year on year but many famous personalities have also walked its pretty streets and been captivated by the scenery of the Golden Vale.

Hollywood actress and Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly and her husband, Prince Ranier, visited Adare in 1961. They stayed at the Dunraven Arms Hotel and also dined that evening with Earl and Lady Dunraven.

Senator Edward (Ted) Kennedy—brother of JFK—visited Adare during his visit to Ireland in 1964. He dined in the Dunraven Arms Hotel with some of his distant Irish relations. Senator Kennedy’s grandfather, John Fitzgerald—nicknamed ‘Honey Fitz’—hailed from nearby Bruff.

Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort has played host to everyone from heads of state to celebrities to world-class athletes.

The then American president, Bill Clinton, stayed at the hotel on his visit to Limerick in 1998 and more recently in July 2013, Hollywood actor, John Travolta, enjoyed a stay there.

Others opt to play a round or two of golf on the famous course, which was the last designed by eminent designer, Robert Trent Jones Snr. The 18-hole championship course opened in 1995. One of many features includes a 14 acre lake. The course record of 64 was shot by Lee Westwood during the Irish Open 2008.

The long list of well-known golfers there also includes Hollywood stars such as John Travolta, Samuel L. Jackson, Michael Douglas, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Peter Gallagher, Kyle MacLachlan, Hugh Grant and Aidan Quinn. Also from the world of entertainment, dancer Michael Flatley and members of pop-group, Westlife, have been to visit.

Soccer stars Niall Quinn and Jamie and Harry Redknapp have played the course, as well as a ‘who’s who’ of professional golf: Tiger Woods, Darren Clarke, Pádraig Harrington, Thomas Bjorn, Luke Donald, Ernie Els, Jim Furyk, Martin Kaymer, Graeme McDowell, Sandy Lyle and Paul McGinley.

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Adare Guide Activities

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There is a lot to see and experience in and around Adare so make sure to explore and enjoy this unique place where you’ll never be short of something to do.

Activities

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Adare Golf Club Adare Guide Activities

Adare Golf Club

Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort 061-605200 www.adaremanor.com The award winning championship course, Adare Golf Club, is located on the grounds of the five star Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort.

The internationally acclaimed 18-hole Championship Course was designed by the much lauded Robert Trent Jones Senior. It is beautifully set amid magnificent mature trees and incorporates many aquatic features, including a 14 acre lake anchoring the front nine holes and the River Maigue, which meanders through the entire golf course.

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Internationally

acclaimed 18-hole Championship Course at Adare Golf Club was designed by the much lauded Robert Trent Jones Senior

Adare Golf Club

The course measures 7,453 yards and occupies 230 acres of lush Irish countryside.

The course has a legendary reputation and is a favourite among professionals, amateurs and celebrities alike. It has been chosen to host many prestigious tournaments including the Irish Open and the JP McManus Invitational Pro Am.

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Adare Golf Club has been consistently voted as the Number One Parkland Course in Ireland for nine years running (2006-2014) by Golf Digest Ireland Magazine.

For more information on golfing at Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort, call 061-605200 or email golf@adaremanor. com.

Adare Guide Activities

Adare Manor Golf Club Adare Manor Golf Club Limerick Road 061-396204 info@adaremanorgolfclub.com www.adaremanorgolfclub.com

Close to the prettiest village in Ireland, golf has been played for well over 100 years over these pleasant parklands at Adare Manor Golf Club.

The nine-hole course was laid out by Ben Sayers on the request of the then Earl of Dunraven. Eddie Hackett was responsible for the conversion of the course to 18 holes in 1991.

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Wesley, preached to the people of Adare in 1756. This place is marked by an inscribed stone beside the 14th green.

Also adjacent to this green, are the ruins of the Franciscan Friary built in 1464 in which the Roman Catholics have a dawn mass on Easter Sunday, complete with a bonfire, with breakfast in the clubhouse afterwards.

The imposing 13th century Desmond castle also adorns the course and the green for the 15th hole and tee box for the third hole are close to this. When

playing the 18th hole, an old graveyard and ruined church come into sight.

This ancient burial ground is still used and has been known to hold up play on the 13th tee.

The presence of mature trees demands accurate shots from tee to green throughout and is a true test for any golfer.

The restaurant is committed to perform to the highest standards. A friendly welcome is guaranteed to all visitors.

The presence of mature trees demands accurate shots from tee to green throughout

The course is unique. It is reputed to be the only one in the world to suspend play to allow two religious ceremonies each year. The Methodists hold a meeting by the spot that founder, John

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Adare Guide Activities

“ Take it in Your Stride

riverside pavement walk is very easy and is suited to all levels of walkers. It is reccomended that you bring comfortable walk or trekking shoes, raingear, fluids and mobile phone. Many services are located along the walk.

Walking in Adare

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The Adare route is particularly convenient because it is easy to follow, well lit all year round, caters for all fitness levels and there is adjacent car parking.

The IHF recommend 30 minutes of physical activity at a moderate intensity, such as brisk walking, five days a week to keep your heart in good shape.

Map Reference: 1.

Adare Tourist Office 2.

Village Fountain 3.

Trinitarian Priory (1230) 4.

Parochial House (1852) 5.

Thatched Cottages (1825) 6.

Augustinian Priory (1315) 7.

Desmond Castle (1202/1226) 8.

Church of St Nicholas &

Chantry Chapel 9.

Franciscan Friary (1464) 10.

Courthouse (1840) 11.

Village Hall 12.

Methodist Church 13.

Christian Brothers School 14.

Washing Pool & Public Park

Lim eric

This recently launched ‘path to health’ (which is the English translation) is a 500-metre-long loop walk around the grounds of Adare GAA Club. All Slí na Sláinte routes are marked at 1km intervals to help walkers know what distance they are covering.

Adare is regarded as being Ireland’s prettiest and most picturesque village.

Situated on the river Maigue, a tributary of the River Shannon, Adare is steeped in history dating back to 1200AD and is on the N21. The Adare Village

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Adare has its own Slí na Sláinte, which is a unique initiative by the Irish Heart Foundation to encourage people to get more active by walking.

Adare Village and Riverbank Walk

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Adare Slí na Sláinte

The Adare route is particularly convenient because it is easy to follow, well lit all year round and caters for all fitness levels

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Adare Guide Activities

Clonshire Equestrian Centre Adare 061-396770 info@clonshire.iol.ie www.clonshire.com

The proverbial dark horse of activities around Adare is the superbly equipped Clonshire Equestrian Centre.

Located roughly two kilometres outside the village, the centre provides tuition in horseriding, training camps/ holidays and therapeutic riding for all levels of experience and ages.

Dan and Sue Foley have been managing the centre for 20 years. The AIRE approved equestrian tourism centre has fantastic facilities including 120 acres of parkland cross country course; a very large outdoor arena; two sizeable indoor arenas, a stable block and other outbuildings.

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The centre, established in 1991, has a cohort of ponies and horses and the expert staff is on hand to guide you through the experience every step of the way.

Clonshire specialises in dressage, crosscountry and show jumping but welcomes visitors of all abilities.

Individual coaching can be organised and Clonshire also run classes in each disipline several days a week.

Clonshire has a variety of programmes such as a five-day programme, a pony camp, an adult camp and a residential

programme for younger riders. It also runs camps for children on Saturdays and Monday to Friday during school holidays. The Kids Mini Camp runs from 10am-1pm and the Kids Full Day Camp runs from 10am–4pm.

The centre also has a dedicated therapeutic riding facility, offering equine assisted learning; riding for people who are disabled or have special needs and pony interaction.

Clonshire has a very active riding club and a range of membership options.

Clonshire Equestrian Centre

The proverbial dark horse of activities around Adare

The Manor Fields

Adare Recreation & Community Complex (ARCC), or The Manor Fields as it more commonly known, is a 25 acre complex with a range of facilities.

The community-owned amenity has been open since 2009 and is due to undergo significant development over the coming years. The first allabilities playground in Limerick is located here.

multipurpose pitches, walking trails and a pavilion building with changing facilities.

It is estimated the development of the entire 25 acre site will cost in the region of €2m to complete and fundraising is ongoing. The complex is located just

outside the village. Take the turn at the traffic lights on the Newcastle West Road and it is beyond Adare Pitch & Putt Club.

For more details, see www.facebook. com/pages/The-Manor-Fields-AdareRecreation-Community-Complex.

There are sports pitches on the site and several local teams train there. It is also the home ground of Limerick Cricket Club.

The next phase of the project will include the provision of a floodlit Astroturf pitch for GAA, soccer and rugby. This will be the first pitch of its type in west Limerick that will be able to accommodate full matches.

The eventual aim is to provide tennis courts, a cricket oval, additional The Best Of Ireland Series

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Adare Guide Activities

Activities in Adare

As the old saying goes “idle folk have the least leisure” but that should be no problem with all the activities in and around Adare.

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Healthy and hardy pursuits are a common fixture. The beautiful landscape and the River Maigue present many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors such as walking, hiking, orienteering, birdwatching, boating, canoeing along with some good old-fashioned country hobbies like hunting, archery and clay pigeon shooting.

Fishing is another favourite. The River Maigue is right at Adare’s heart and is teeming with the likes of trout, pike and bream. There are restrictions in place according to season and general regulations. Be sure to enquire first and fish later!

Castleroberts Salmon and Trout Fishery is close to Adare and has a 2km section of the Maigue available to fish, which is managed by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). If you prefer to fish from one of the local lakes, boats can be hired. Equipment hire and fishing tackle are available in Adare village. There are experienced local fishermen such as Paddy Dunworth of Celtic Angling (069-68202), who act as guides, run tours and give lessons. The Shannon estuary is not far away for sea fishing expeditions. Information on booking and permits is available from the IFI (061300238).

Horseracing can be enjoyed in Limerick Racecourse (061-320000) nearby in Patrickswell with meetings taking place several times a year. For The Best Of Ireland Series

adrenaline junkies, there is go-karting close to Adare in Kilcornan Karting (061-393733). A game at Adare Pitch & Putt (061-396078) is a great way to pass some time.

For a true taste of the great outdoors, feel free to wander around Curraghchase Forest Park in Kilcornan (061-337322). Managed by Coillte, the 777 acre park is located between Adare and Askeaton and offers picturesque scenery and walks galore.

It includes a children’s playground, gardens and the remains of Curragh Chase House. There are a number of looped way marked trails in the park for walking and cycling to suit all abilities.

Opening times vary and there is a charge for parking.

Aside from the many family activities in and around Adare, there are some tailored specifically to children. At Stonehall Visitor Farm & Wildlife Park in Kilcornan (061-393940), there is a multitude of flora and fauna to interact with. There are picnic facilities, tearooms, nature trails and a play area.

Buttercup Farm in Ballygrennan, Croom (061-397556) has a large collection of tree-trails and natural paddocks as well as farm equipment on display. Visitors can sit at the picnic tables and enjoy some tasty farmhouse refreshments. There is also a kiddies’ play area. Opening times vary for both farms with the seasons.

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Adare Guide Food & Drink

Adare is a pleasant location to eat, drink and be merry with a great choice of fine restaurants, cosy cafés and vibrant pubs with a world of ‘ceol agus craic’.

Food & Drink

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Adare Guide Food & Drink

Pat Collins Bar and Restaurant

Pat Collins Bar and Restaurant Main Street 061-396143 collinspub@gmail.com www.patcollinsbaradare.com

Whether it’s golfers relaxing after a round, natives discussing local news or tourists taking a break from sightseeing, Pat Collins Bar makes everyone feel at home.

Popular for its good pint and homemade dishes, the bar was also

Aunty Lena’s Bar Main Street 061-396114 info@auntylenas.com www.auntylenas.com

This bar is steeped in tradition and has been a fixture in Adare since 1806, keeping the locals fed and watered since then.

You can’t miss its distinctive mustard and black frontage and the inside does not disappoint with its solid wood bar furniture and decorative stained glass.

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Popular for its

good pint and homemade dishes

­Owner, Michael Collins, has cultivated a great sporting pub and the air is alive with conversations about the future of Munster Rugby and the trials of Striking pictures include one of the entire staff of the tobacco factory formerly located in the village.

The owner is Charlie Chawke—a well-known racehorse owner and a great supporter of the local hurling club who owns a chain of pubs including the famous Goat Bar in Dublin. He was born in the village and named the bar after his aunt, Lena, who was the original owner.

Classics like

bacon and cabbage, bangers and mash

The walls are something to behold with rare photographs of Adare and representing key parts of its history.

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recently redecorated inside and out. It retains its character with a plethora of wall decoration including framed old newspapers and Irish currency.

Aunty Lena’s Bar The Best Of Ireland Series

the county hurling championship.

The staff is attentive in every sense but particularly to settle a playful argument over who won what and when.

It does a bustling lunchtime trade with gourmet sandwiches and fish dishes like prawn salad and scampi a prominent feature on the menu. This is along with Irish favourites like bacon and cabbage beside modern fare like a lovely sizzling house stir fry.

By night, the bar’s traditional Irish music on Wednesdays and live music at the weekends is a big draw too.

Bar manager, Dave and his staff members are a friendly bunch who are always on the ready to serve drinks and food. The menu is varied with sandwiches and classics like bacon and cabbage, bangers and mash and crispy, beer battered fish and chips.

By night, there are live music sessions on Fridays and on weekends.

Adare Guide Food & Drink

Seán Collins and Sons Bar Main Street 061-396400 info@seancollinsbaradare.com www.seancollinsbaradare.com

Seán Collins and Sons Bar Adare is a most traditional style bar run by Sean and Bridie.

The carefully selected menu features locally-sourced fish, meat, vegetables and salads and is available every day from 12.30-9.30pm.

With the increasing interest in Irish craft beers, Sean has carefully selected five of his favourites with an Irish pale ale, two ales and two lagers. The pub has a large selection of Irish whiskey from the big and small distilleries.

With awards for ‘Irish Music Pub of the Year’, their music sessions on Monday and Friday night at 8.30pm are very popular. It is advisable to book a table for meals on these big nights.

Bill Chawke’s Bar Rathkeale Road 061-396160 info@billchawkes.com www.billchawke.com

Bill Chawke’s Bar is a homely bar with a lively twist, which is spacious inside and out.

Chawke’s (also owned by namesake, Charlie) has beautiful signage and a neat exterior—a common trait with bars in Adare. A framed Adare GAA jersey to the left as you come in the door makes

Tables can be configured to cater from two to 50 people. If you like, you can have a barbecue in the garden area.

The menu includes homemade fish cakes, steamed and baked salmon and cod, our famous Irish stew, chargrilled steaks and homemade 8oz burgers, great salads, pizzas and gourmet wraps. There is a large gluten-free menu available too.

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With awards

for ‘Irish Music Pub of the Year’, their music sessions on Monday and Friday night at 8.30pm are very popular

it clear that sports fans are welcome and there are several screens inside for watching. The décor is modern with nice touches like fireplaces.

Handsome manager, Alan, stamps his personality on this pub so it is regarded as a friendly spot by locals and visitors alike. It has a cosy little pool room to enjoy a pint and pool combo.

It celebrates being the “only bar in town with a large beer garden”.

Chawke’s has a special barbeque area, which comes into its own in good weather.

Whether you’re looking for a small

Seán Collins and Sons Bar

or large meal to satisfy your hunger, the all day food menu has a good selection.

Sandwiches and paninis feature, as do dishes like the tasty Bill Chawke’s gourmet burger.

There is traditional music here on Tuesday nights and live music on the weekends.

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Bill Chawke’s Bar is a homely bar with a lively twist

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Adare Guide Food & Drink

The Blue Door Restaurant

Main Street 061-396481 info@bluedooradare.com www.bluedooradare.com The blue door into the restaurant of the same name leads back in time but strangely, to high quality, modern cuisine.

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freshly made to order.

The eatery is open daily from midmorning so visitors can stop in for a hot beverage and in high season, for afternoon tea. It serves lunch and dinner.

The early bird runs every day and some dishes feature on the evening menu with appealing choices such as deep fried king prawns in katafi pastry, beechwood smoked duck breast salad,

fillet of cod with chardonnay sauce and sirloin steak.

Dinner options include trio of warm St. Tola’s goats cheese and cranberry parcels, confit of duck and grilled Connaught lamb cutlets. The homemade dessert menu sweetens the deal with such classics as sticky toffee pudding, warm chocolate brownie and vanilla panna cotta.

A cosy bistrostyle ambience sure to leave an impression

The Blue Door is based in one of the iconic thatched cottages built in the 1830s. Although it has moved with the times, it still has a cosy bistro-style ambience sure to leave an impression.

Under the able guidance of host Brian Hayes, the staff make customers comfortable while each dish is being

The Wild Geese Restaurant

Main Street 061-396451 wildgeese@indigo.ie www.thewild-geese.com Acclaimed chef, David Foley, has tamed the unpredictable art of fine dining with ease in The Wild Geese Restaurant.

Looking onto Main Street opposite the Dunraven Arms Hotel, its sunny yellow exterior yields to smart, country house style décor. There is a good value set

The Blue Door Restaurant

menu and separate vegetarian menu. The thinking behind the food is to capture the vibrancy and flavour of fresh ingredients by cooking them simply. The suppliers are mostly local and regional, organic where possible.

This philosophy is reflected in dishes such as the parcel of Kenmare smoked salmon stuffed with crabmeat, baked Bluebell Falls goats cheese in a curry crust, terrine of chicken liver parfait and smoked Limerick bacon, pan-fried medallions of monkfish, roast rack of Irish lamb, pan-seared scallops and chorizo and roast breast of barbarie duck.

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The vegetarian menu and dessert selection is equally delectable. With Mr. Foley and co-proprietor, Julie Randles, at the helm since 1999, the restaurant has garnered recommendations from the likes of the Bridgestone Top 100 Restaurants Guide and Georgina Campbell’s Jameson Guide from 1999 to date.

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The thinking behind the food is to capture the vibrancy and flavour of fresh ingredients

It was short listed for the Gilbeys Gold Medal for Fine Dining in Ireland Awards. It was also finalist as best chef and awarded best restaurant in Munster by the Restaurant Association in Ireland.

It is listed in Frommer’s, Foder’s, Karen Brown’s and Lonely Planet Guides.

The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday to Saturdays from 6.30pm.

Lunch is served on Sundays from 12.30pm.

Adare Guide Food & Drink

1826 Adare

Main Street 061-396004 info@1826adare.ie www.1826adare.ie

Called “the opening of 2013” by both Tom Doorley and John McKenna, 1826 Adare has already been critically acclaimed, having won Best Restaurant in Limerick and Munster 2014.

It offers high quality cuisine with a relaxed atmosphere to create a unique dining experience.

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Service is

efficient, friendly and attentive, but be sure to leave room for dessert

Proprietor and chef, Wade Murphy, and his wife Elaine strive to offer the best locally sourced ingredients at reasonable prices in the bijoux setting of Adare’s iconic thatched cottages.

The muted beige and mushroom tones and country chic inspired furniture inside are offset by sparkling white walls that let the colourful food speak for itself.

The menu changes on a monthly basis to reflect seasonal availability of ingredients but some standout dishes include the ‘Head to Tail’ pork tasting

Did you know?

Adare played a vital role in the development of the religious movement, Methodism, globally.

Before a church was ever built in Adare, the founder of Methodism, John Wesley, visited this area to preach on 10 occasions in the 18th century. In 1749, schoolmaster and leader of the Palatine community at Ballingrane heard Mr Wesley preach in Limerick and shortly after formed the first Methodist society in the area.

The Palatine community fled to Ireland from Germany in the early 1800s in search of a better life.

1826 Adare

plate, pan fried chicken livers, pickles & piccalilli aioli and pan fried black sole on the bone, Grenobloise garnish, prawn, herb & seaweed butter. The house fish pie comes with a 75 degree egg—a sure indicator of the technical proficiency of the chef!

The service is efficient, friendly and attentive, but be sure to leave room for dessert as the chef’s attention to detail does not stop at mains. All the bread is baked fresh in-house too.

In 1826 Adare, nothing is ordinary, every dish is a wonder and it comes as no surprise that Wade won the Best Chef in Munster prize from the Restaurant Association of Ireland & Life Magazine Irish Restaurant Awards 2012 and the Good Eating Guide 2013.

Adare Cuisine

Adare Produce There is rich farmland around Adare and the wider Golden Vale region.

Some of Adare’s restaurants, bars and hotels use produce from around the county such as Springfield Walled Garden Organics, Glin Valley, Ponaire coffee and more.

Adare Farm Foods is one of the most successful food businesses in Limerick, earning national acclaim. The familyrun farm just outside the town has been operating since 1963.

In 1760, Palatines, Philip Embury and his cousin Barbara Heck were among a group, who emigrated from the Rathkeale area and settled in New York.

With his cousin’s encouragement, Embury became the first Methodist Pastor in North America. Today, over 250 years later, there are millions of Methodists in America and around the world. These include former Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton; film producer George Lucas and author, Stephen King.

Descendants of the founding Palatine families still play an active role in the life of the Adare & Ballingrane Methodist Circuit today.

John Wesley

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Adare Guide Food & Drink

The Good Room Café Main Street 061-396218

The Good Room opened in Adare in the spring of 2008 and is located opposite the Dunraven Arms Hotel.

The Good Room, formally a derelict building, has a light and airy feel to it with a very relaxing atmosphere.

It’s a key meeting place for many locals serving a wide range of homemade products. The scent of fresh baking drifts onto Main Street and the scones with homemade jam are renowned.

The sociable staff have waited on some well-known Irish personalities such as Mary McAleese, Aidan Quinn, Dana, Alan Quinlan and Rory McIlroy, but everyone gets the star treatment.

It serves breakfast with lighter options such as traditional porridge or granola with yoghurt/fruit to a full Irish with a

healthy slant like avocado.

Lunch includes soup, killer gourmet hot sandwiches, salads and scrumptious sourdough bruchettas. If you want something more filling, options include homemade quiches and fishcakes, pasta dishes and daily specials.

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It’s a key meeting place for many locals serving a wide range of homemade products

In the evening time, the ‘Snack, Eat, Sip’ menu is perfect for all occasions.

If it’s just a few tapas and wine or pasta and a beer they have something for everyone.

They are also widely known for their attention to dietary requirements supplying a wide range of gluten free and vegetarian options.

In all this is a family friendly café with something for everyone including free Wi-Fi for all, large outdoor seating area and phone in takeaway service for those on the run.

The Good Room Café opens every day Monday to Saturday from 8.30am, Sundays from 10am and all public holidays from 11am.

The Good Room Café

Seán Ó Riada’s

Fond Memories of Adare Composer and champion of Irish music, Seán Ó Riada, was born on August 1, 1931 in Cork City. His family moved to Adare when Seán was a young age and while living there, he started to learn the piano and violin.

He was quoted in a newspaper in the mid-sixties praising Adare: “I have loved music for as long as I can remember.

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Both my father and mother were traditional fiddlers and we often had local musicians in our house—that was when we were living in Limerick, where there was a very good school of traditional fiddlers.” Ó Riada produced the musical score for the film, Mise Eire and his creative use of traditional music along with his compositions in this and later work, made him a household name.

Between 1961 and 1969, Ó Riada was leader of a group called Ceoltóirí Cualann and they performed widely as well as making recordings. Ó Riada is credited as one of the most influential figures in the revival of traditional and the ‘Sean Nós’ style.

He passed away in 1971 and there is a small memorial to him in Adare.

Adare Guide Shopping

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Whether you have a passion for fashion or are scouting for special gifts and souvenirs, you can shop to your heart’s content in Adare.

Shopping Wares around the original fireplace in a 200 year old Adare thatched cottage, which now houses a shop (Lucy Erridge) The Best Of Ireland Series

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Adare Guide Shopping

Adare Cottage Shop Main Street 061-396422 sales@adarecottage.ie

Located a few doors from the original Adare Manor gates and housed in one

of the thatched cottages is the Adare Cottage Shop. Its pretty garden, the colourful display of goods on the buttercup colour walls of this 18th century cottage entice the visitor to pass through the red door of Adare’s first gift shop.

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Main Street 061-396898 lucyerridge1@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/lucyerridgeHome of Irish Crafts, Fashion & Art

fibres in exclusive knitwear created by Lucy herself, and fashion, accessories, hand painted silk scarves, watercolour paintings and hand stitched textile pieces as well as handcrafted jewellery inspired

by Celtic art. Many pieces are made exclusively for this shop.

Original art works adorn the walls— batik, textiles, hand embroidery,

For those who appreciate quality, style and flair, step into Lucy Erridge, Home of Irish Crafts, Fashion & Art, situated in a 200 year old thatched cottage opposite the Trinitarian Abbey.

The decorative cottage garden leads you into a shop where design is the key element. They design, here in Adare, their own knitwear, the Adare Silver Crosses, accessories, prints and notelets and many more pieces. They also work with other designers to create a unique and diverse selection of clothing, gifts and art.

Imagine rich, colourful, designer knits, crafted from nature’s finest 36 |

Opened 40

years ago, many national and international celebrities have passed through its door

Brands including Belleek, Irish Dresden, Waterford Crystal, InisMeain Knitwear, Donegal Design, John Hanley Woollens, Harris Tweed and St. James fashion are represented. This unique shop also has a beautiful selection of ladies footwear by brands including Mephisto and Hogl.

A warm Céad Míle Fálte awaits all who visit!

Open 7 days 10am-6pm including bank holidays.

Adare Cottage Shop

Lucy Erridge Home of Irish Crafts, Fashion & Art

Opened 40 years ago, many national and international celebrities have passed through its door and discovered for themselves, a shop full of beautiful gifts.

Inside the rooms are home to the best of what Ireland has to offer in giftware, cashmere knitwear, baby alpaca and merino wool knitwear, Irish linens, crafts and jewellery.

creations of local artists and designers.

There is a range of gifts to suit all tastes and pockets, and you can be sure that whatever you find at Lucy Erridge will be of the finest quality.

Lucy Erridge. Home of Irish Craft, Fashion & Art is open all year, seven days a week 9.30am-5.30pm.

Lucy Erridge. Home of Irish Crafts, Fashion & Art The Best Of Ireland Series

Adare Guide Shopping

Draíocht Art and Gifts

Adare GAA Adare GAA Club was founded in 1929 although its history goes back to the late 18th century. The village has enjoyed and continues to enjoy success at all levels. At the time of publication, Adare has won the Limerick Senior Hurling Championship five times, the County Intermediate Football Championship once; the County Junior B Football Championship once, the County Junior A Football Championship twice, the County Junior Hurling Championship once, the Limerick Under-21 Hurling Championship four times and the Limerick Minor Hurling Championship three times.

This is only the beginning of the honours with school-age teams having won no less than 14 other titles!

Adare clubman, Mark Foley, played in two all Ireland finals and won two all-stars with Limerick. He captained the county team many times and in 2009, became Limerick’s most capped player with a record 47 senior championship appearances. Current Adare players, Declan Hannon and Wayne McNamara, are also members of the Limerick senior hurling team, and in 2013 were part of the team to win Limerick’s first Munster title in 17 years.

Adare also has camogie (ladies’ hurling) and Gaelic football teams at various levels. Many players have represented Limerick in the past and the present. Adare is the only club in Limerick to have dual senior status in both hurling and football.

The club colours are red and black and the home clubhouse and pitch are located 1km west of Adare on the Blackabbey Road. For further information, see www.adaregaa.ie.

Draíocht Art and Gifts Main Street 061-395539 draiochtadare@gmail.com www.draiochtadare.ie

Draíocht Art and Gifts brings a little touch of magic to the village with its wealth of original art by established and emerging local talents.

Its vibrant window displays draw you inside to two sizeable rooms, which have the balance between art gallery and retail down to a tee.

Affable co-owner, Andrew, explained the ethos of carefully selecting the art, maintaining close contact with the artists so that the shop is a constantly changing canvas.

Art in adare

A Wealth of Talent

There is a wealth of talented artists and craftspeople in County Limerick. Several local artists are on display in Adare’s own Draíocht Art Gallery.

The talented Barrett sisters— Ailbhe, Louise and Ester—hail from nearby Granagh. They are all self-taught and have been full time artists since their teens.

Ailbhe’s paintings are mainly landscapes but architecture features frequently. Ester is known for her equine paintings and bronze sculptures. Louise’s paintings include hunt scenes, portraits and seascapes.

Henry Morgan was born In Adare in 1952. He studied at the Limerick The Best Of Ireland Series

Interesting pieces include beautiful raku sculptures by Liz Burgess and Syra Larkin’s figurative paintings.

Draíocht stocks an extensive selection of the Irish Handmade Glass by the original Waterford glass-blowers.

Jane Hilliard and Vivienne St Clair are another two artists featured on the walls and depict classic scenes from nature or still life. Alec Good Ceramics give ‘Renaissance’ life to another display.

Draíocht’s resident artists include the Barrett sisters, Robert Ryan, Sheila Richardson and Adare artist, Henry Morgan.

The varied display includes art in many media, unusual furniture and smaller craft and gift items such as candles, jewellery and turned woods.

School of Art and Oslo University. He has exhibited all over Ireland and his works are in collections as far afield as Australia, America, Russia and Dubai. His work includes rugged landscapes including the Clare Glens and The Burren.

Robert Ryan—from Lough Gur, County Limerick—draws inspiration for his paintings from many subjects such as ecosystems, how living things interact and how we see ourselves.

He graduated from Limerick School of Art & Design in 1987, worked abroad and has also travelled all over the world. | 37

Adare Guide Shopping

Footprints by Laura

Footprints by Laura Adare Style One of the famous visitors to Adare was style icon, Grace Kelly, who once famously said “I don’t want to dress up a picture with just my face”. It’s a good thing, then, that those who share that sentiment are spoiled for choice when shopping in the village.

Princess Grace first achieved fame as a Hollywood actress in films such as High Noon, To Catch a Thief, Rear Window, Dial M for Murder and The Country Girl—for which she won a Best Actress Oscar.

In 1956, she married Prince Rainier of Monaco and it was with her husband that she visited Adare in 1961. She was equally famous for her fashion sense as for her acting and humanitarian work.

Kelly was a member of the International Best Dressed List since 1960. There have been many exhibitions documenting her faultless style including a recent display of her dresses and accessories in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

She was a patron to designers such as Christian Dior and Chanel and very loyal to the quality clothes she bought, so much so that she was reluctant to throw anything away. One of the French fashion designers she so loved, Yves Saint Laurent, once said that “fashions fade, style is eternal”. That could have been spoken about Grace Kelly but either way, remains a mantra for modern fashionistas.

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Main Street 061-605060

If you want to put the pep back in your step, be sure to pop in to Footprints by Laura.

This shoe emporium may be compact but offers a large selection of ladies, gents and children’s footwear.

Footprints by Laura offers a range of sizes and styles as well as the leading brands.

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Whether looking for casual or formal shoes, work or school wear, the store has a great selection—varying with the seasons. It also stocks handbags, scarves, umbrellas and footwear products and accessories.

The friendly and attentive staff aims to please and will have you walking on air in no time!

Footprints by Laura opens Monday to Saturday, 9.30am-6pm and Sunday 2-6pm.

You want to put the pep back in your step, be sure to pop in to Footprints by Laura

In the ladies’ section, brands include Marco Tozzi, Caprice, Jana, Heavenly Feet and S. Oliver and for gentlemen, Dubarry, Wrangler and Morgan—to name but a few.

There is a full measuring service available for kids and some of the big names stocked include Geox, Start-Rite, Superfit and Ricosta.

Don’t Forget! Fashion in Other Shops!

Adare is a fashion destination in County Limerick, particularly for occasion wear. There are several other well-known boutiques and shops here stocking clothing, shoes and accessories.

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They include: Isobel’s, the K Boutique, Catherine McCormack International Collections, Aisling Maher Boutique, Lady Penelope, Serendipity Shoe Boutique and Joli Accessories.

Aibhéil of Adare bridal boutique is very popular too (viewings are by appointment only).

Adare Guide Shopping

Vokes Giftshop and Hardware Main Street 061-396213 vokesdiygift@eircom.net www.vokesadare.com

Gifts and hardware are nearly opposite ends of a scale but Vokes combines the two effortlessly in one place.

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weddings, retirement and that special thank you. Irish brands, Newbridge Jewellery, Tipperary Crystal, Max Benjamin candles and Belleek blend perfectly with international brands such as Bodum cafetiers, Le Creuset, Steller, Portmeirion and Orla Kiely kitchen and homewares.

The yellow and black shop frontage, a throwback to an earlier time is a hint that Vokes have been here for years.

Like the street it is situated on, the shop has obviously seen many changes over the years, but you can be sure that the friendly and helpful service in this award-winning shop has never wavered.

A delightful array of gifts to celebrate every milestone in life

The shop interior is deceptively large carrying a comprehensive range of D.I.Y, garden supplies, homewares and gifts. There is a delightful array of gifts to celebrate every milestone in life. From babies birth, house warming,

Adare Pharmacy

Main Street james@adare-pharmacy.ie 061-396147 The team at Adare Pharmacy pride themselves on providing a friendly, caring service to the community and visitors passing through and on meeting all health and beauty needs.

Vokes Giftshop and Hardware

The pharmacy has been owned and run by husband and wife, James and Carmel Collins, since 1997. They and their team do everything in their power to provide advice on any medical requirements visitors to Adare might have.

Both pharmacists, the Collins’ offer all the regular services including filling prescriptions and giving advice on medical matters. They can also

Adare Pharmacy The Best Of Ireland Series

assist visitors who have forgotten their medication, for example. There is a room for private consultation.

Adare Pharmacy sells travel accessories and travel-size toiletries as well as a vast range of health and beauty products, including skincare (Neostrata, Clarins), make-up (Rimmel, Isadora), perfume and more.

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Providing a

friendly, caring service to the community

The spacious store also supplies photographic material including batteries, memory cards, disposable cameras, baby supplies and hosiery. The pharmacy has gift products such as photo frames, photo albums and jewellery.

The store has a health monitor which measures weight, blood pressure and body mass index. There is also a digital photo printing machine.

The pharmacy has been a long-term fixture in Adare; the building dates back to the late 1940s. The tradition of helpful and informative service continues to this day.

Adare Pharmacy opens Monday to Saturday, 9am-6.30pm. | 39

Farmers’ Market

Adare Guide Shopping

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dare Farmers’ Market combines old world charm and new age value with its range of local, homemade and organic products.

The small but charming market is held in the historic community hall at the top of the village every Saturday from around 10am to 2pm.

The number and type of stalls varies but some popular items—with stallholders and shoppers—include fresh fruit and vegetables, flowers, free range eggs, fresh homemade baked goods, jams, preserves, honey and occasionally handmade crafts.

It is a pleasant amble on a weekend morning and a great way to support local producers and makers.

For further information, see www. facebook.com/Adare.Country.Market.

Adare in Numbers

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1929

1856

The year Adare GAA Club was founded.

The year Adare Railway Station opened. It closed to passengers in 1964.

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2 The number of golf courses in Adare.

21 The number assigned to the main road through the village (N21, Limerick-Tralee).

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A pleasant amble on a weekend morning and a great way to support local producers and makers

52 The number of chimneys on the Adare Manor house—one for each week of the year.

1997 The year Adare farm machinery company, Samco, was established.

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The distance in kilometres from Adare to Shannon Airport.

The number of primary schools in and around Adare.

24 The area in acres of Adare Recreation & Community Complex (ARCC).

1752 The year Valentine Richard Quin, the first Earl of Dunraven, was born.

Adare Guide Accommodation

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To experience true Irish hospitality, visitors should relax, indulge and stay in any one of the hotels and guest accommodation in Adare village and its surrounds.

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Adare Guide Accommodation

Magnificent

Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort

Adare 061-605200 reservations@adaremanor.com www.adaremanor.com For a genuine experience in opulence, the magnificent five star Adare Manor Hotel is the place.

The story goes that in the 1830s, the second Earl of Dunraven was hobbled with gout and took on the task of replacing the house as a distraction. The Neo-Gothic manor has traits of a lavish chateau with features like its towers and stone gargoyles. The enormous manor is a ‘calendar house’ with 365 stained windows and 52 chimneys. The third Earl continued the job, adding stunning gardens to the 840 acre estate.

Now a luxury five star hotel, Adare Manor is renowned for exceptional service and quality of experience, attracting international visitors all year around. A championship 18 hole golf course, designed by the renowned Robert Trent Jones Senior, was added in 1995 and has since hosted many prestigious tournaments.

To really play at being a lord or lady, staying in the manor itself will fulfill that fantasy. There is a selection of rooms. Lady Caroline’s Room is the most special in the house with its flamboyant décor and antique furniture.

The Dunraven Staterooms have hosted heads of state and celebrities. They 42 |

boast period features like hand carved fireplaces and four-poster beds. The regular staterooms provide an excellent stay with the utmost comfort. Even the deluxe and classic rooms come equipped with marble bathrooms and gorgeous furnishings too. There are eight bedrooms in the refurbished Carriage House. If guests desire more privacy, they can opt for one of the two and three bedroom townhouses just a three minute walk from the house. There are also three and four bedroom villas 15 minutes from the house. The self-catering lodgings have plush, contemporary furniture and fittings.

Adare Manor has two first-rate restaurants. The Oakroom, with a lovely river view, is the ultimate in fine dining. The fare is Irish in style, flavour and produce but with classical and modern touches. Cuisine changes with the seasons but sample dishes include Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort

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foie gras; pan-fried sea bass; crispy skin salmon fillet and local pheasant.

There is an eight course tasting menu available. The Carriage House restaurant is more informal but does not eschew attention to detail. Sample dishes include traditional fish and chips; beef or chicken strogonoff and beef burger. The Tack Room is the atmospheric bar downstairs where guests can relax with a drink. The manor is much sought after for weddings and guarantees a magical experience whatever the style, size or requirements.

There is a range of activities available on site such as archery, clay pigeon shooting, falconry, walks, hot air balloon flights, wine / whiskey tasting and fairy trails. There is a leisure centre with a 15m pool, steam room, a fitness room and Lavender Cottage has beauty therapists doing treatments, massages and wraps.

Adare Guide Accommodation

Wonderful

Woodlands Fitzgerald’s Woodlands House Hotel Adare 061-605100 reservations@woodlands-hotel.ie www.woodlands-hotel.ie

Fitzgeralds Woodlands House Hotel & Spa is a luxurious, family run hotel that boasts stunning facilities and an unrivalled air of tranquility.

Set on 44 acres of ‘Golden Vale’ countryside, the hotel’s modern exterior comes into view after the tree-lined driveway. The Woodlands has 89 spacious deluxe bedrooms, family rooms and suites in addition to an excellent spa, a White Flag leisure centre, a bar and two restaurants.

Guests can avail of complimentary parking, free Wi-Fi and morning newspapers with lots of outdoor seating.

Visitors are also in a constant stream, whether for a work-out, a meal in Timmy Macs Bistro or to get a pampering in Revas Spa & Hair Gallery.

The spa offers a true haven away from the stresses of everyday life with some unique features and treatments, which include a Turkish Mud Rasul Chamber, two romantic duet treatment rooms, outdoor heated rock pool and a luxury thermal suite. Eighteen treatment rooms are dedicated to every type of pampering paired with a beauty, nail and hair salon makes this an exclusive retreat. From massages to facials, there is something for everyone.

Timmy Macs Bistro is the epitome of old country Ireland with a rustic hearth in the centre of the room and filled with memorabilia such as restored bicycles.

With fresh daily home baked breads and desserts and dishes such as bacon and cabbage or a thick juicy Irish Angus Sirloin, it endeavours to host the finest food the region has to offer.

The recently refurbished, plush interior of Fieldings restaurant offers unrivalled table d’hôte and a la carte menus offering fresh and exciting modern dishes. Seasonal, local, and fresh ingredients are used to enhance the flavour and attentive waiting staff will ensure quality of service at every sitting.

Fitzy’s Bar always has a mix of guests and locals in its relaxed surroundings modern decor, soft lighting and lots of comfortable sofas. It has the latest sports action on show and live music most Saturday nights.

The leisure club has a 20m pool, sauna, jacuzzi, steam room and fully equipped gym. Trained staff can provide individually tailored fitness assessments and programmes. The hotel is naturally family friendly—with a separate kiddies pool and play room. The Leisure Club also operates Woodys Kids Fun Club during school holidays and most Saturdays (which is free to residents).

They say that from ‘little acorns, great oaks grow’ and the Fitzgerald family is a testament to that. Owners, Mary and Dick, opened a four-bedroom guesthouse in 1983 and today, the Woodlands has transformed into a four star hotel.

Second to none for hospitality, the hotel is part of Irish Country Hotels and is one of the few hotels with a ‘Guaranteed Irish’ award.

For more information and updates see www.woodlands-hotel.ie, facebook. com/woodlands.adare or Twitter @ WoodlandsHouse.

Fitzgerald’s Woodlands House Hotel The Best Of Ireland Series

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Adare Guide Accommodation

Deluxe

Dunraven Dunraven Arms Hotel Main Street 061-605900 reservations@dunravenhotel.com www.dunravenhotel.com

Dating back to 1792, the Dunraven Arms combines four star luxury with old world charm to make it one of the most popular country house hotels in Ireland.

The hotel was awarded Georgina Campbell’s ‘Hotel of the Year 2014’ and ‘Value Hotel of the Year 2014’ in the H&C Gold Medal Awards.

Originally a coaching inn on a vast estate owned by the Earl of Dunraven the hotel now boasts 86 bedrooms, the Hunters’ Bar, the Maigue Restaurant, a separate Conference Centre and a Health and Leisure Centre.

The Dunraven Arms is renowned for its wonderful staff and attentive service overseen by proprietors Louis and Hugh Murphy.

The luxurious bedrooms are each individually styled with period fabrics and furnishings with private dressing rooms and en-suite bathrooms. The six suites and 24 junior suites have the added indulgence of authentic, antique four-poster and canopied beds.

The award-winning Maigue Restaurant has a wide-ranging menu with a focus on Irish classics with a modern twist. Famous for its roast beef and baked Limerick ham carved from the trolley, it seeks out locally sourced, seasonal produce. The hotel also 44 |

provides the options of private dining experiences and banquets and weddings in the beautiful ballroom with its own bar and bathroom facilities.

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Four star luxury

with old world charm

The Hunters’ Bar has the ambience of a private club of old with solid oak paneling, leather banquettes and fireplaces with an extensive cocktail menu and delicious food served all day.

The Health & Leisure Centre includes a 17m swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and a gym. Special classes such as

Dunraven Arms Hotel The Best Of Ireland Series

aqua aerobics or yoga can be arranged for guests and aqua fun and games for younger guests. Guests may also indulge in a range of beauty and body treatments with an in-house specialist in The Beauty Rooms.

A stand alone, state of the art conference centre suitable for 10 up to 200 delegates is the most recent addition to the Dunraven Arms. The bright, naturally lit room, hi-tech facilities and free Wi-Fi will ensure high productivity.

The hotel is also renowned for equestrian holidays. With the Murphys being keen horsemen they can make arrangements for fox-hunting, cross-country riding in Clonshire Equestrian Centre or racing at the nearby Limerick Racecourse.

Adare Guide Accommodation

DID YOU Know?

Adare on the Big Screen

Adare Manor house and grounds was one of the locations used in the 1977 American comedy film, The Last Remake of Beau Geste. The film is a satire loosely based on the novel Beau Geste—a story of brothers and their misadventures in the French Foreign Legion. Although the film got mixed reviews, it had a star-studded cast including Marty Feldman, Ann Margaret, Michael York, Peter Ustinov, James Earl Jones and Spike Milligan.

Coatesland House

The Prettiest Village in Ireland

Adare is widely referred to as “the prettiest village in Ireland” and a lot of work has been done to keep it that way. A designated heritage town, it was the overall national winner of the Irish Tidy Towns Competition in 1976. It has maintained a stellar record in the competition. Adare won Tidy Towns silver medals in 2008 and 2009 and the award for Ireland’s Best Kept Small Town in 2008. It was the tidiest town in County Limerick in both 2013 and 2014.

Adare’s influence reaches to Antarctica Cape Adare in Antarctica was named in honour of the third Earl of Dunraven, Edwin Richard Wyndham-Quin. It was so named by his friend, naval officer and explorer, Captain James Ross, in January 1841. The cape is in the furthest northeastern peninsula in Victoria Land and is the site of the largest Adélie penguin rookery in the world with roughly 250,000 nesting pairs.

Adare’s Famous Thatched Roofs There are many fine examples of thatched cottages in Adare. Thatching is the craft of building a roof with dry vegetation like straw, water reed, sedge, rushes or heather—whatever material is easily available. In Adare’s case, some of the roofs are made from reeds cut from the banks of the River Shannon. It is estimated that there are between 150 and 226 thatched buildings in County Limerick, which is one of the highest volumes in Ireland. A thatch roof is typically between three and four feet deep and can last up to 15 years.

Coatesland House Bed & Breakfast (3 star) Tralee Road (N21), Graigue 061-396372; 087-2477351 coatesfd@indigo.ie www.coateslandhouse.com

Since its establishment in 1990, Coatesland House B&B enjoys continued success and popularity with its many guests over the years.

It is a Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence 2013 Winner—putting it in the top 10% of businesses on the popular tourist review website. Coatesland House boasts many glowing reviews too!

They specialise in walking tours, golf groups, wedding groups, families etc. with seasonal special rates and an eco-friendly ethos, pet friendly classifications.

Coatesland House B&B is located just a 10 minute walk to the beautiful village of Adare, with all its wonderful scenic walks, golf courses, restaurants and pubs. The six bedroomed B&B, all ensuite, offers much more than just a facility, it’s a home away from home.

The Hogan family takes pride in their

very high repeat business, all due to the comforts, warmth and hospitality of the proprietor, Florence Hogan.

Flexibility and the acknowledgement of guests’ special requests are both a given. Some of the many extras include an ample monitored, secure and well-lit parking area to the rear of house, enabled free Wi-Fi, fridges in all rooms, satellite TV and an outside covered smoking area. Guests are encouraged to relax in the tranquility of landscaped gardens after a day’s travelling.

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Relax in the

tranquility of landscaped gardens

The breakfast menu incorporates all Irish produce and is prepared specifically for all guests to include a varied buffet, continental and traditional full Irish breakfast.

Early bookings are advisable during peak holiday seasons to avoid disappointment.

Good To KNow

Additional B&B facilities

Berkeley Lodge B&B Station Road, Adare 061-396857 berlodge@iol.ie www.adare.org

Clonunion Farmhouse B&B Croom Road, Adare 061-396657 clonunionhouse@eircom.net www.clonunionhouse.com

Carrigane House B&B Rienroe, Adare 061-396778 info@carriganehouse.com www.carriganehouse.com The Best Of Ireland Series

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Adare Guide Website

www.adarevillage.com

County Limerick, Ireland

Adare’s website, www.adarevillage.com, has been experiencing significant growth in traffic since it was relaunched in its new format.

Total website hits for 2014 amounted to 52,717, up 7% on 2013, with 51% visits from Ireland and 26% from USA with the balance from the rest of the world.

The website is mobile-friendly and can be easily accessed by visitors during their stay in Adare.

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The website contains comprehensive information on accommodation, B&Bs, hotels, restaurants, bars, local stores, places of interest and where to find local entertainment and traditional music.

Hotels and B&Bs have received very significant booking referrals during 2014.

Contains

comprehensive information on accommodation, B&Bs, hotels, restaurants, bars, local stores, places of interest The Best Of Ireland Series

The website provides information on buses, trains, airports, medical services, taxi firms, golf courses, visitor attractions and more.

Click on www.adarevillage.com for all you need to know about this wonderful village.

Adare Guide Further Afield

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After enjoying the spoils Adare has to offer, broaden your horizons by visiting some of the highlights in Limerick city and county and the neighbouring counties.足

Further Afield The Best Of Ireland Series

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Adare Guide Further Afield King John’s Castle

Historic Splendou King John’s Castle King’s Island, Limerick City 061-360788

King John’s Castle has been an imposing fixture on the banks of the River Shannon since the 13th century.

Following a recent redevelopment of the visitor experience, the castle is now even more of a landmark to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages.

After Limerick was awarded its first Charter and Mayor in 1197, the AngloNormans wanted to make their mark on the city and fortify its defenses.

King John ordered a castle to be built and work started around 1200, going on for over a decade. It was a magnificent feat of construction and though it was attacked many times, much of thestructure remains intact.

The castle’s life is illustrated with the help of the interactive visitor experience through touch screen technology, 3D models, discovery drawers, computer generated imagery, animations and projections. There are activities designed just for kids and are equally loved by adults.

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The castle courtyard bustles with authentic activities including a blacksmith’s workshop and in high season, actors interact with visitors explaining their roles as a master mason, a constable and more. Archaeological digs in the grounds have been opened up for viewing and some of the 1,000 items discovered here are on display. There is a spectacular 360 degree view from the tallest turret.

A visit to King John’s Castle can take up to three hours. Opening hours are: April-September, 9.30am-5.30pm (last admission 4pm) and October–March, 9.30am-4.30pm (last admission 3:15pm).

Opening hours are subject to change.

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A landmark to be enjoyed by visitors of all ages

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Bunratty Castle & Folk Park Bunratty, Co. Clare 061-360788

At one of Ireland’s premier visitor attractions, you are invited to explore three wonderful experiences—the spectacular 15th century Bunratty Castle, the 19th century Bunratty Folk Park and the Village Street.

The site on which Bunratty Castle stands was a Viking trading camp in the 10th century and the present structure is the last of four castles to be built here, built by the powerful MacNamara family in 1425. By 1475, it had became the stronghold of the O’Briens, who were later forced to surrender the castle and grounds with the arrival of the Cromwellian troops.

The estate was granted to various plantation families, the last of which left the castle in 1804. Viscount Lord Gort purchased the castle in the mid 1950s and extensive restoration work was carried out, opening to the public as a National Monument in 1962. Bunratty

Adare Guide Further Afield Bunratty Castle

Craggaunowen

Evening Entertainments

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is the most complete and authentically restored castle in Ireland. It features mainly 15th/16th century furnishings, tapestries and works of art. Guided tours are available.

Castle and neighbouring castles in Clare, Knappogue Castle and Dunguaire Castle located in Kinvara, Co. Galway as well as the Traditional Irish Night in Bunratty Folk Park.

The 26 acre Bunratty Folk Park and Village Street is a unique open-air museum featuring around 30 buildings, including farmhouse dwellings, a school, Ardcroney Church, doctor’s house, printers, McNamara’s pub and Bunratty House, former home to the castle’s last inhabitants. Visitors can enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes and scents of this enchanting place through live demonstrations by costumed characters in high season. There is a also a walled garden to enjoy.

All three castles offer medieval banquets with excellent food, drink and traditional music fit for a king. Guests can enjoy all the pomp and ceremony of the occasion, while mingling with characters in period dress and relaxing in the authentic surroundings. Savour a glass of honey mead before enjoying a sumptuous, four course banquet where the candlelight and long oak tables reflect the style of the medieval era. Every castle has its own style of entertainment including live instrumental music, the dulcet tones of the castle singers and storytelling/literary readings.

Admission is all year round (closed December 24-26), 9.30am-5.30pm; last admission 4pm (folk park 4:15pm).

Evening Entertainments Multiple locations 061-360788

There is a range of evening entertainments available at Bunratty

At Bunratty Castle, the banquet runs nightly year round at 5.30pm and 8.45pm. At Knappogue Castle, the banquet runs April-October at 6.30pm.

At Dunguaire Castle, admission is twice nightly at either 5.30pm or 8:45pm.

Reservations are necessary with all banquets. At the Traditional Irish Night in the Corn-Barn guests can enjoy Irish traditional music, song, storytelling and The Best Of Ireland Series

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park dance as well as dining on a four-course dinner.

This runs nightly from April to October at 7pm.

Craggaunowen Co. Clare 061-360788

Dubbed “Ireland’s original award winning pre-historic park”, Craggaunowen allows visitors to step back over 1,000 years ago to explore the roots of our Celtic ancestors, who shaped how we live today.

Immerse yourself in the traditions and dwellings of the Celts and Bronze Age people, wander through the woods to see real wildlife and see the magnificent, leather hulled ‘Brendan Boat’, built

by Tim Severin, who sailed across the Atlantic Ocean re-enacting the voyage of St Brendan.

For more information on all of the listed sites and more, see www.shannonheritage.com.

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Adare Guide Further Afield

One of a Kind

Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum

Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum Foynes, Co. Limerick 069-65416 info@flyingboatmuseum.com www.flyingboatmuseum.com

The role played by the west Limerick village of Foynes in the establishment of passenger flights across the Atlantic is excitingly captured in this museum, located in the original Airport Terminal Building.

The story is told by way of original film in a 1940s style cinema and the museum showcases the war years, airline memorabilia and uniforms from that era.

Here, you can board the only Boeing B314 Flying Boat replica in the world and step back in time to 1943 in the 3D holographic exhibition which recreates the night that chef, Joe Sheridan, invented the first Irish Coffee.

The new Maritime Museum deals with the history and personality of the River Shannon from Limerick City to Loop Head. It features many artefacts and exhibits including charts and maps.

Information on the river pilots, dockers, the tragic story of the Colleen Bawn, transportation, emigration, exports, notable ships and more is explored.

The village of Foynes, situated on the Wild Atlantic Way, boasts a new playground and beautiful wooded walks.

Enjoy a snack or lunch in O’Regans Restaurant or take a drive further west on the N69 for stunning views of the Shannon Estuary.

Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum opens 9.30am-6pm daily, mid March to mid November (closing at 5pm March, April, October and November).

The exact sat sav co-ordinates are: 52.6115, -9.1097. For more information, see www.flyingboatmuseum.com.

Wild Atlantic Way The Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland’s spectacular coastal driving route, which stretches 2,500 kilometres all the way along the west coast from Donegal to West Cork.

world. You can access it driving west from Limerick City, east from Kerry or even by taking the ferry from Killimer, Co. Clare to the nearby terminal at Tarbert.

The pretty village of Foynes—situated on the N69 road—is featured on the longest defined coastal drive in the

The Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum (see above) is a big part of the reason why the village features but there

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are more delights to sample. You can try an Irish coffee where the popular drink was invented or try the Foynes Wood Walk with excellent views over the Shannon Estuary. The picnic area is the perfect spot to stop off for a bite. More information on www.wildatlanticway.com.

Adare Guide Further Afield

“ most successful

The biggest and

shopping complex outside of Dublin

Crescent Shopping Centre Limerick

061-228560 www.crescentshoppingcentre.ie Limerick is home to premier retail destination, the Crescent Shopping Centre Limerick is the biggest and most successful shopping complex outside of Dublin.

Celebrating 41 years in operation this year and covering a massive 37,000 square metres of space and 2,500 free parking spaces, the Crescent is a mecca for fashionistas and families alike.

There are over 90 outlets, including big brand and independent stores, a 12 screen Omniplex cinema, numerous eateries, a drop-in crèche and much more.

The centre’s main anchor tenants are Tesco, Penney’s, Shaw’s Department Store, Heaton’s, Argos and Boots to mention a few.

Some of the hottest trends in ladies’, men’s and children’s fashion are to be found here in stores such as Next, Zara, H&M, River Island, Monsoon,Tommy Hilfiger, Pamela Scott, Mego, Diesel, Carraig Donn and Mothercare to name but a few.

From jewellery outlets, health & beauty outlets, shoe emporiums, hobby shops to bookshops, giftware stores and don’t forget the sports outlets, there is The Best Of Ireland Series

truly something for everyone. There are also a range of services on offer including hairdressers, a locksmith, banks, ATMs, a post office and a travel agent.

The qualified staff in the drop-in crèche located inside the Shannon Mall entrance will look after your little ones while you take that well-deserved break for some retail therapy and coffee.

The newly opened Crescent Playground is proving very popular with children and parents.

If you’re in need of a boost after shopping, there is a selection of food outlets from BBs Coffee and Muffins, O’Brien’s Sandwich Bar, Costa Coffee, Quigley’s, McDonald’s, Subway, KFC, Butler’s Café, Ristorante Del Arte and Franklin’s Restaurant.

It also hosts events like Inspire— Munster’s biggest fashion event—and a spectacular arrival of St Nicholas to Santa’s Grotto during the festive season. There is also a Crescent gift card available, which can be used in all stores. News and special offers regularly appear on www.facebook.com/pages/ Crescent-Shopping-Centre.

With an emphasis on value, comfort and choice, the Crescent Shopping Centre is well worth a visit. Opening hours are Monday-Wednesday and Saturday, 9.30am-6pm; Thursday and Friday, 9.30am-9pm and Sunday 12 noon-6pm. | 51

Adare Guide Further Afield

More to Enjoy!

L

imerick City and the towns and villages surrounding Adare boast a huge variety of sites and experiences not to be missed, most only a short drive away.

Lough Gur Heritage Centre (Lough Gur, Co. Limerick; 061-385386) lies 21 km south east of Limerick city and is one of Ireland’s most important archaeological sites. Aside from its glassy lake and undulating hills, there are stone circles, ancient dwellings, megalith tombs, crannogs and castles to see here. There is a visitor centre and guided tours are available.

The medieval village of Askeaton (Askeaton, Co. Limerick) was once a stronghold of the Munster Geraldines, the Anglo-Norman Earls of Desmond.

Today, the impressive ruins of Askeaton Castle are an imposing sight in the town, as are the remains of the well-preserved 14th century Franciscan Friary and the 17th century building which hosted Askeaton’s Hellfire Club. Tours are available.

Kilmallock Museum & History Trail (Kilmallock, Co. Limerick; 063-398097) takes you through the rich history of the ‘crossroads of Munster’—an important Norman town, which was at the centre of Ireland’s political development from the 13th-17th centuries. The rich architectural heritage including a partially intact Dominican Friary and medieval walls with a huge castle gate.

Ballyhoura Trails (East Limerick/ north Cork; 063-91300). The trails are 52 |

a favourite for outdoor activities. For hikers/walkers, there are signage-led routes and walking tours available. For mountain biking, Ballyhoura has the largest cross country trail network of its kind in Ireland with 98 km of various tracks.

“

A huge variety of sites and experiences not to be missed, most only a short drive away

The Hunt Museum (Rutland Street, Limerick City; 061-312833) holds the important private art collection of the late John and Gertrude Hunt, gifted to the people of Ireland. It is housed in the former Custom House of Limerick. The collection includes over 2,000 antiquities from ancient Greece and Rome through to a programme of contemporary art.

Lough Gur

in the country outside Dublin. LCGA has a selection of Irish 18th to 21st century art in all media and several other collections. It runs a constantly changing exhibition programme.

The University of Limerick Sports Arena (Castletroy, Limerick City; 061213555) is Ireland’s largest indoor sports complex. World-class sporting facilities available for public use include a 50m swimming pool and a massive gym.

For more things to do and sights to see around Limerick, see www.limerick.ie.

The Hunt Museum

The Jim Kemmy Municipal Museum (Limerick City; 061-417826) illustrates the history of Limerick and its people. Its displays include archaeological artifacts, sporting memorabilia, Limerick silver and lace, exhibits on the struggle for Irish independence and much more.

The newly extended and renovated Limerick City Gallery of Art (Pery Square, Limerick City; 061-310633) has one of the finest municipal art collections The Best Of Ireland Series

University Sports Arena

Adare Guide Useful Information

Useful Information Useful Websites For Adare Village www.adarevillage.com

Useful Numbers for Adare Village Adare has many other shops and services and here is just a selection...

Adare Tourist Office 061-396666

Emergency:

Adare Garda Station 061-396216 Adare Medical Centre Rathkeale Road 061-396561 Adare Family Doctors Station Road, Adare 061-396999 Limerick Doc (Out of Hours GP Service) 087-7551570

Financial:

Other:

Rathkeale & District Credit Union Station Road 069-64444

Costello’s Butchers Main Street 061-396207

Taxi:

Post Office Main Street 061-396120

AIB Bank Adjacent to Adare Heritage Centre 061-396544

Adare Hackney Services 087-2061106 Platinum Cabs & Limousine Hire 087-2276970/087-3142421 Johnny Carey 061-396777 Stephen O’Donoghue 087-2255932 Limerick Taxi Cabs 061-313131

Public Transport: Bus Eireann 061-313 333

Iarnroid Eireann 061-315 555 / 1850 366 222 The Best Of Ireland Series

Lohan Centra Main Street 061-396211

Boyle Sports Bookmakers Rathkeale Road 061-605009 Adare Pharmacy Main Street 061-396147 Adare Veterinary Clinic Station Road 061-396390 John Noonan (Vet) Gortnagrour, Adare ­­061-396775 Adare Physiotherapy Clinic Castleroberts, Adare 061-396888

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Adare Guide Map Map Reference: Section A • Adare Heritage Centre • Adare Woollens • Black Abbey Crafts • Curran’s Heraldry • Dovecote Restaurant • Dunraven Arms Hotel • Public Restrooms Section B • Adare Cottage Shop • Lucy Erridge, Home of Irish Crafts, Fashion & Art • Restaurant 1826 • The Blue Door Restaurant • The Good Room Café • The Wild Geese Restaurant Section C • Berkeley Lodge B&B Section D • Aunty Lena’s Bar • Vokes Giftshop and Hardware • Draiocht Arts & Crafts Section E • Adare Pharmacy • Bill Chawke’s Bar • Footprints by Laura • Sean Collins Bar & Restaurant • Adare Pharmacy N21 (Limerick) • Adare Manor Golf Club • Bunratty Castle • Clonunion Farmhouse B&B • Craggaunowen Riverbank Walk • Crescent Shopping Centre • King John’s Castle • Limerick City • Shannon Airport N21 (Kerry) • Coatesland House Bed & Breakfast • Clonshire Equestrian Centre • The Manor Fields N69 • Curragh Chase Forest Park • Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum Black Abbey Road • Adare Methodist Church Croom Road • Fitzgerald’sWoodlands House Hotel • Carrigane House B&B

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Adare Guide Map

The Best Of Ireland Series

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