Must See Sights and Landmarks in Ennis Area

"An obdurate and brooding Norman mass over the River Shannon, Limerick's showpiece castle, with its vast curtain walls and towers, was built on the orders of King John of England between 1200 and 1212. The massive twin gate towers still stand to their full height. A multimedia experience that provides an excellent potted history of Ireland in general, and Limerick in particular, is followed by exposed archaeology in the undercroft and a tour of the courtyard and fortifications."

"King John’s Castle looms over the River Shannon in Limerick City. (Chris Hill / Tourism Ireland). Built in the year 1210, King John’s Castle comes as a striking sight for anyone following the course of the River Shannon through Co."

"If you’re driving then a place I would recommend going to near Limerick is Bunratty Village and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. I actually visited here on a family holiday when I was about 11 and loved it!. I drove through the village on my way from Shannon to Limerick this time and it brought back so many memories. The buildings in the village are very typical Irish stone built buildings and many of them are home to B&B’s now if you need somewhere to stay nearby."

"Step back to medieval and Victorian times with a full-day admission ticket to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park near Shannon Town. Explore the 15th-century castle to see its rich furnishings, chambers and artworks, and wander through the folk park, a recreation of a 19th-century Irish village brought to life with costumed animators. See the replica cottages, shops, farmhouses, and Bunratty Walled Garden, and learn about traditional village life over a century ago."

"You will be charmed as you visit the farm houses and cottages and watch the tasks of rural Irish families. Make sure you see the baking of the griddle bread next to the fire and tasting it hot with fresh creamery butter."

"The Williamite War came to an end in this city in 1691 with the second Siege of Limerick. Catholic Irish and French Jacobite forces were eventually defeated by the Protestant Williamites, from Ulster, England, Scotland, the Netherlands and Denmark. The Treaty of Limerick was signed on 3 October 1691, and was a turning point in Irish history, leading to the “Flight of the Wild Geese”, when 24,000 Catholics left the country for France."

"Wildlife parks are a great day out for families and luckily we have one right here in Limerick!. Allow your kids to learn about colourful parrots and fall in love with cheeky alpacas. As well as these the park hosts both wild and domestic animals, including Ostriches, Emus, Rheas, Wallaby’s, Meerkats, Birds of Prey and tortoises."

"North of the Square, Ennis Friary was founded by Donnchadh Cairbreach O'Brien, a king of Thomond, between 1240 and 1249. A mix of structures dating between the 13th and 19th centuries, the friary has a graceful five-section window dating from the late 13th century, a McMahon tomb (1460) with alabaster panels depicting scenes from the Passion, and a particularly fine Ecce Homo panel portraying a stripped and bound Christ."

"The original Knappogue Castle was constructed in the year 1467 by Sean Mac Conmara, who was the son of Sioda Mac Conmara; it is a large medieval tower house, that originally served the purpose of a watchtower during the midst of much military conflict. During the 19th century, like many castles in Europe and Ireland, Knappogue Castle was restored into the style of the Gothic and Medieval era, after being acquired by Theobald Fitzwalter Butler, 14th Baron Dunboyne, in the year 1855; they spent a large amount of time renovating and restoring the castle, whilst also adding several additions to it, such as the drawing-room, the long room, and a west wing. Where: County Clare, IrelandWhen: 1467Style: MedievalOpen for visit: Yes, for more information check here."

"One of Ireland's most famous prehistoric grave sites, Gleninsheen lies beside the R480 7km south of Ballyvaughan. It's thought to date from 4000 to 5000 years ago. A magnificent gold gorget (a crescent of beaten gold that hung round the neck) found here and dating from the late Bronze Age is now on display at the National Museum in Dublin. Note: the access gate to the tomb is sometimes locked, and signage is poor."

"Texas Steakout has a great location on O’Connell Street and is usually very popular with a long queue reaching the door so it’s usually best to book a table before arriving. The restaurant has a Texas western theme, which is evident from the music they play to the décor inside. It makes for a great atmosphere, helped by the fact that the staff are really friendly and attentive."

"In the heart of Limerick city, Texas Steakout is well known for its warm atmosphere, attention to detail in their décor and unique selling point of being entirely underground. But did you know they also do amazing burgers?. Bring your appetite to Texas Steakout because all of their burgers weigh a thick and juicy 8oz."

"When my boyfriend brought me to Texas Steakout for dinner at Christmas I have to admit, at first, I turned my nose up - I just didn't like the idea of the name. My judgement was quickly swayed when our food was put in front of us. It was absolutely delicious and came in at a very fair price."

"1-2 Lower Glentworth Street, Limerick V94 WF63 IrelandAsian, Thai, HealthyLunch, Dinner, DrinksDelivery, Takeout, Reservations, Seating, Street Parking, Serves Alcohol, Wine and Beer, Free Wifi, Table Service[email protected]+353 61 591 043http://zozabb.ie"

"The star attraction of this popular coffee shop in Thomond bridge is the patio, overlooking the Shannon River and King John’s Castle, and considered by many locals to have the best view in the city. You’re a short stroll from almost all the core attractions, and as well as Jack Monday’s coffee, there’s a fantastic Belgian hot chocolate, wraps, waffles, bagels and soup to keep you sated. Essentially everything you need for a warm lunch stop off."

"Everyone in Limerick knows this restaurant, conveniently located in the middle of the city on O’Connell Street. Their menus are always amazing. Whether you’re in the mood for pasta, steak, chicken, fajitas or fish and chips, Marco Polo can be depended on to really have something for everyone."

"3 O'Connell Avenue, Limerick, IrelandTakeout, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Waitstaff, Television, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Serves Alcohol, Full Bar, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Digital Payments, Free Wifi, Delivery, Reservations, Accepts Credit CardsIrish, Bar, European, Pub, Contemporary, Gastropub, Vegetarian Friendly, Gluten Free OptionsLunch, Dinner, Breakfast, BrunchHK$39 - HK$220+353 61 316 949"

"Bobby’s first opened in 1963 and serves carvery lunch every Sunday from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Bobby’s is well known for being a cosy, quaint, traditional pub in the heart of Limerick serving heart-warming traditional Irish food with great drink and music. Sunday lunch starters include homemade tomato, and black pepper soup served with homemade brown bread."

"A much-loved city centre bar since 1953, Bobby Byrnes offers food at the warmth of an open fireplace. Special events include the Twenty Thursday: order a meal for two for €20 between midday and 3pm, and Bobby's Summer Lunch: €18.95 for two courses, every Sunday from noon to 4pm."