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Things To See
Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
Probably the most famous castle in Ireland, this magnificent 15th century castle of dramatic history was once the stronghold of the O'Briens, kings and later earls of Thomond. It is now Ireland's most popular attraction having being restored in 1954 to its former splendor with many of the original furnishings and tapestries. Within the grounds of the castle is Bunratty Folk Park where Irish life at the turn of the century is recreated with typical 19th century urban and rural dwellings. There are 8 farmhouses, a waterfall, a blacksmiths forge, a village street complete with post office, printer's, doctor's house, drapery shop, school, pawn shop and a village hotel and pub. A visit to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park offers the opportunity to see what life was like in earlier times in Ireland. Of course no visit to Bunratty would be complete without a visit to Dirty Nelly's where you can sample some traditional Irish fare along with a pint of the "Black Stuff ".
Open daily year round from 0930H - 1730H.
Contact : 353 - 61 - 360788 for further information.
Bunratty Mediaeval Castle Banquet
Join the Earl of Thomond for a glorious banquet. This is a truly enchanting evening, Ê from the time of arrival where you are greeted with a glass of Bunrattys famous honey mead, through an aristocratic feast accompanied by the world famous Bunratty Entertainers. A great evening for all ages but watch out that you don't end up in the dungeon. This is the highlight of many peoples visit to the Limerick Region and is a great way to round off your visit to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.
Held twice nightly subject to demand at 1730H and 2045H all year around.
Contact : 353 - 61 - 360788 or Free Phone 1800 - 269811
King John's Castle
A dramatic city fortress of Norman times standing guard over Limerick on the river Shannon. The castle was built in 1210 under orders from King John. It is one of the finest examples of fortified Norman architecture in Ireland With an imaginative exhibition, multi-vision show, excavations, war machines, 800 years of history unfold within its battlements. Features of the castle include 13th century King John's Castle restored and interpreted Models and displays interpreting 800 years of Limerick's and Ireland's History. An audio-visual show that takes you from the city's foundation through to the present day. Excavated pre-Norman houses, fortifications and siege mines Battlement walkways along the castle's walls and towers which afford a great view of Limerick City.
The castle is open daily from mid-April - October 0930H - 1730H and from November to Mid-April the castle is open Sundays 1200H - 1600H.
Contact : + 353 - 61 - 411201 for further information.
The Hunt Museum
The Hunt collection is an internationally important Collection of some 2,000 original works of art and antiquity. It is a personal Collection formed by John and Gertrude Hunt who selected each piece according to the quality of its design, craftsmanship and artistic merit. These criteria were applied to objects from all periods of the past - from the Stone Age to the Twentieth Century. Craggaunowen - the living past What was it like to live in early Celtic Ireland Visit Craggaunowen and see this past come alive. There are a number of exciting exhibits to see at this attraction. See the unique exhibit that is the "Brendan Boat", a leather curragh ( type of boat ) in which the renowned explorer Tim Severin sailed from Ireland to America,re-enacting the voyage of St.Brendan the Navigator. At the residence of a 5th century farmer you will be shown around by his wife, who will show you her skill at weaving and also show you the many features of her home. You will be shown around the Crannog where you will experience life during the Bronze age. There are also a number of refreshments to be had including freshly baked scones. There is also a picnic area with tables and a visitors shop where you may purchase souvenirs of your visit.
The attraction is open daily from mid-March to mid-October from 1000H - 1800H.
Contact : + 353 - 61 - 367178 for further information.
Historical Walking Tours
Kings Island and St.Mary's Parish Limericks most historic area Guided walking tours daily at 11.00am & 2.30PM Assembly Point St. Marys Action Center 44 Nicholas Street Limerick
For further information contact smidp@iol.ie
Ideal for Tourists and Students.Experienced Tour Guide Tour Rates IR4.00 Per Person Family Rate IR7.50 Group Rates Groups of 3 Upwards IR2.50 Per Person The route of the Historical Walking Tour has a duration of 90 minutes approx. and will include the following locations.Merchants Quay # St. Mary's Cathedral.The Exchange.King John's Castle # Treaty Stone # Bishops Palace.Dominican Priory # Sir Harrys Mall.The Abbey River McNamara's Band St.Mary's parish is better known as ' The Parish ' and is Limerick's best known historical area. Situated on the Abbey and Shannon rivers, the area features King John's Castle.
Knappogue Castle Mediaeval Banquet
A beautifully furnished 15th century castle. Knappogue was once the seat of the McNamara clan. Restoration of the main tower house, and its 19th century castellated additions is brilliantly achieved. Its colourful history is retold in a sound and vision exhibition. In a courtly 15th century setting, enjoy a sparkling good-humored evening with delicious food and wine in the best tradition of the castle's hospitality. Story, song and dance form a captivating pageant of colour woven around the famous Celtic women of Ireland's past.
Lough Gur Heritage Centre
With its lake sheltered by limestone hills, this tranquil place of prehistoric mystery and story is notable for the variety of its bird life as well as for the wealth of antiquities. A Neolithic house has been imaginatively reconstructed for the visitors' center.
Castle Lane Castle lane
An authentic 18th/19th century Irish streetscape comprising buildings from Limerick's urban architectural heritage. The streets run alongside the 13th century King John's Castle which is already known throughout the region as a highly successful tourist attraction. The development houses such attractions as the Limerick Civic museum, a retail outlet and Castle Lane Tavern. The Tavern is typical of such a building of the 18th/19th century is spread out over two levels. The ground bar area includes all that is great about a traditional Irish Pub, friendly staff, good food and the best informal sessions of traditional and modern music. The Officer's Club on the second floor hosts an exciting new entertainment. The entertainment reflects a ' Festival of Modern Ireland ' , where a cast of 13 young Irish entertainers display the artistry and originality of modern Irish music and dance. The evening begins with dinner at 7.30pm. Guests order from a full a la carte menu prepared with the finest fresh produce available in Limerick. The meal is served by the young entertainers, which affords guests the opportunity to engage in conversations. During the meal there is informal entertainment as the artists give their guests a taste of what is to come. Following the meal, the artists take to the stage for a spectacular show incorporating the energy, artistry, imagination, and sheer exuberance which has become throughout the world as the contemporary Irish Tradition in music and dance. With state of the art sound and lighting systems the 45 minute performance promises to put Limerick on the map as one of the great music venues in Ireland. The evening does not end here however. After a short break, a ballad group entertains with modern and traditional music. The ensuing ' hooley ' which will include audience participation goes on until closing time. Full bar facilities are available throughout the evening. The club will seat 110 people.
Contact : 1800 - 269811
Croom Mills
This is the story of an Irish country mill from the glorious days of its success to its demise in the late 1940's. It is the story of the family who built it, and the local community who supplied the grain, or worked the mill; the life of the village that revolved around the Croom Mills. Includes a heritage centre for tourists to visit.
St. Mary's Cathedral
This cathedral is still in use for weekly services. The site (his former home) was donated by Donal Mor O'Brien in 1172 as a means of buying his entry to Paradise! The front door of the church is reputed to be the original door of Donal's house. The cathedral incorporates many architectural treasures in its construction and furnishings. The cathedral is open daily throughout the summer season from 0900H - 1700H. There are daily services conducted in the cathedral usually at 9.00am. There are also Sunday Services which are held at 11.00am and 7.00pm.
Foynes flying boat Museum
This museum recalls the heyday of Foynes as the terminus for transatlantic flights. It commemorates the flying boats, the famous people who travelled on them between Europe and the US, the people in Foynes who provided the operational support, and of course, the original recipe for the now world-famous pick-me-up Irish coffee. The Foynes museum recalls this era with a comprehensive range of exhibits and graphic illustrations. The museum features The original terminal room. The radio and weather room, with original transmitters, receivers and Morse Code equipment. An Introduction to the first transatlantic passenger service. Foynes during the war years. A souvenir shop and Tourist Information Point is located on site.