Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Bunratty

"Originally constructed in the 13th century, and is situated upon the King’s Island, in the Irish city of Limerick; it towers beautifully above the River Shannon and is a very scenic site, that attracts many tourists. Though the existing castle dates back to the 13th century, upon the order of King John in the year 1200, the site actually dates back to the year 922, where the island had been inhabited by the Vikings. The castle was built during the Middle Ages, and is one of the most impeccable well-preserved Norman Castles in the entirety of Europe; between the years 2011 and 2013, the castle was massively renovated, to restore it back to its former glory."

"There’s just something magical and fairy-tale like about them and King John’s medieval castle in the heart of Limerick is no exception. The castle is ideal for kids, as it has interactive features to stimulate children’s interest in the medieval castle’s history, such as 21st-century touch-screen technology, 3D models and discovery drawers. Explore the castle turrets and meet characters from the past such as the stonemason."

"Although establishments date back to 922 AD, the catsle was built in the 13th century on the orders of King John. A pristine and strategic location, the castle was built on an Island off the coast of Limerick. in 1194, the Anglo-Normans finally captured the area in 1195 under John, Lord of Ireland."

"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."

"The medieval and Victorian 15th century Bunratty Castle with its 19th century Folk Village will be a perfect historic retreat in the County Clare. The Bunratty Castle now acts as a history museum with its furnishings and tapestries dating back to 15th and 16th century and a number of historic artworks. The highlight of the tower house is the Medieval Banquets held in the evening where the &ldqu...Read more"

"Just 20 kilometres south of Limerick you’ll find Lough Gur, doused in 6,000 years of history. It’s the only area in the entire country that you can see evidence of every era since Neolithic times, so history buffs won’t want to miss this. Address: Lough Gur, Bruff, County Limerick"

"In Newtown Pery, the People’s Park was imagined in the first decades of the 19th century as a grand Georgian place in the vein of Mountjoy Square in Dublin. But the development was curtailed by the Great Famine, and only one terrace of flat-fronted mansions was completed. The park was opened in 1877 and is the main parcel of greenery in the centre of the city."

"This beautiful wooded park in the heart of the Georgian city is an excellent place to take a breather while on a Limerick tour. A large selection of deciduous and evergreen trees characterize the landscape. From spring to late summer, you’ll find a beautiful floral display here."

"Opened in 1877, The People’s Park is perfect for a picnic and also has a children’s playground!. It is the home of a fully refurbished drinking fountain, a band stand and access to Limerick City Gallery of Art."

"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."

"Not an overly impressive sight in its own right, Limerick’s Treaty Stone symbolises an agreement that ended the Williamite War. The truce didn’t last for long, and the events that led to it still echo on. It’s not an overly impressive relic in its own right, but it has fantastic views, a plaque explaining the history (which dates back to 1691) and offers a real sense of stepping back in time."

"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."

"Lough Gur Stone Circle is one of Ireland’s archaeological and historical gems. The beautiful and enchanted lake lies 21 km south east of Limerick city. From the level surrounding countryside it unfolds in beauty its placid waters and rugged hills – a fairyland of stone circles, ancient habitation sites, megalith tombs, crannogs and castles."

"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 boutique 12-bedroom property located in the heart of Limerick City. Lovingly restored, with original architectural features and stylish modern touches, this heritage townhouse is just the place for an urban luxury escape. Guests can choose between the Chic, Elegant or Suite bedrooms and avail of the Parlour Room hideaway and Rooftop garden to unwind."

"The Bedford Townhouse & Café is a boutique property set in the heart of Limerick. Among the various facilities are a gym and a roof garden. Free WiFi is available and The Hunt Museum is 500 metres away."

"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."

"Sean Collins & Sons Bar Adare, situated at the top of the main street is a very comfortable and welcoming old style pub. The Bar and Restaurant has established a great reputation for quality, locally sourced, Irish food. The menu comprises of steaks from Costello’s local butcher,  fresh cod and chips, pasta, pizza, homemade burgers and more."