Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Adare

"At the start of this decade Limerick’s fabled castle on the River Shannon was given a multimillion-Euro update. A new visitor centre was added, along with interactive exhibitions, touch-screens and CGI displays. These tell the tale of one of Europe’s most complete Norman castles, ordered by King John of England in 1210."

"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."

"Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is a must on your itinerary to Ireland. This is your chance to experience Ireland’s past and explore the famous 15th century Castle and the 19th century Folk Park."

"Irish prehistory is always gripping, so you should be sure not to miss this archaeological site 20 kilometres south of Limerick. In hilly countryside, Lough Gur is a horseshoe lake with all sorts of megalithic remains on its banks. This pocket of land has been occupied by humans for more than 5,000 years, and has ring forts on the higher ground, traces of Stone Age houses, the Grange stone circle and three crannogs (Neolithic artificial islands)."

"Located beside the Limerick City Gallery of Art, People's Park is the most popular green space in Limerick. Dating from 1877, this is a tranquil oasis and the city's main park, a perfect spot to enjoy a picnic, bathe in the rare sunshine, or merely enjoy a wander in the fresh air. A large selection of mature deciduous and evergreen trees dot the park and, during the spring and summer, visitors can admire a wonderful display of flowers."

"One of the city’s most prominent green spaces, the People’s Park is the place for a breather after a busy day exploring Limerick. Unveiled in 1877, the park takes after Dublin’s elegant Mountjoy Square, complete with elaborate drinking fountains, a bandstand, and trees with elephantine trunks. Perfectly located in the city centre, the park is a stone’s throw from the Newtown Pery shopping district."

"Adare Desmond Castle in Limerick is a pinnacle example of medieval architecture, with a strong fortified and stronghold history. The castle is situated on the north bank of the River Maigue, which proved an important and strategic location for the castle’s role in history, as it was able to control river traffic and keep a watchful eye. Much of the original castle still remains today, for example, the large square keep stands as the defensive centre of the castle, which is enveloped by a walled ward, that has a large moat running around the outside."

"A glance at the Ireland of old is on offer at this riverside, long-ruined castle. Adare Desmond is essentially a shell of the old structure, but there’s enough left to justify tours, and the buildings and their surrounds make for a fantastic slightly off-the-beaten-track exploration. There’s a sacred fairy ring just around the corner, and very little development visible from the sight, giving this a real sense of the Ireland of its 13th century construction."

"Just outside the town of Adare (which we recommend in its own right, see below) Adare Desmond Castle is a 13th-century riverside fortress, now in ruins, sat right next to an ancient ring fort. Regular tours during the summer give an insight into the spot’s revolutionary history while an exhibition gives a sense of life at the castle through the Middle Ages."

"Within a 170-hectare forest 800m south of the centre, this stunning 'lost' garden was the private domain of the wealthy Vandeleur family – merchants and landowners who engaged in harsh evictions and forced emigration of local people in the 19th century. There's a simple cafe and a garden centre. Woodland trails wind around the surrounding forest, which has a colourful array of plants including magnolias, acacias, acers, oaks, monkey puzzle trees, bamboo, ferns, banana trees, hydrangeas and a beech maze."

"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."

"The mythical side of Irish life (which is still fairly widely loved, if perhaps seen locally as a little clichéd) is one of the great Irish experiences for many people. Terra Nova is a magical garden that contains an ancient fairy fort dating back thousands of years, though the addition of modern fairy statues and magical touches will probably entice most visitors. Atmospheric, to say the least."

"Limerick, winner of the Best Garden in Ireland, it is a magical day out for families and gardeners alike and is home to Ireland’s Largest Fairy Gift Shop."

"Within a 170-hectare forest 800m south of the centre, this stunning 'lost' garden was the private domain of the wealthy Vandeleur family – merchants and landowners who engaged in harsh evictions and forced emigration of local people in the 19th century. There's a simple cafe and a garden centre. Woodland trails wind around the surrounding forest, which has a colourful array of plants including magnolias, acacias, acers, oaks, monkey puzzle trees, bamboo, ferns, banana trees, hydrangeas and a beech maze."

"A stunning property occupying a large corner site on the city’s most gracious Georgian square - overlooking a leafy park and only a minute’s stroll away from the City Art Gallery - this is the luxurious boutique hotel that discerning visito ..."

"This chicken and burger concept restaurant in Limerick City have a mouth-watering menu of delicious rotisserie chicken and beef burgers, as well as an array of ribs, chicken wings and salads. Known for its friendly service and children’s menu with a wide variety of options for even the fussiest little ones, Coqbull is a great option for a quick bite while you’re out with the kids or family lunch any day of the week."

"If you are a chicken wing enthusiast and haven’t sampled the wings here you are missing out. The food is real comfort food, with the likes of chicken, burgers, pizzas and pasta all included in their menu. It’s the perfect place for a well deserved comforting dinner after a long hard week."

"21/07/2021: Lovely food great prices and very friendly staff. 18/07/2021: I’ve been here twice now and I love it!. First time was September last year then second time was last month very kind and helpful staff food is delicious and their cocktails are incredible!"

"Their shop in Limerick, opened in 2005, was the first O&F in Ireland. At first it was a small Bottega, situated on Little Catherine street, at the heart of Limerick. In August 2010 it was completely renovated and the Caffè area was added."

"Olio & Farina isn't a uniquely Limerick Italian dining option, but its omission would be a shame. Its décor has a bohemian texture and the service is friendly and intimate. The food is rustic and authentic and the menu is priced fairly."