Limerick city is a place full of little “wows”. First off, there’s its location – right on the River Shannon in the mid-west of Ireland. Then, there’s its history, from brutal sieges in the 17th century to the grand Georgian era of the 18th century. This vibrant city is a place of tragedy and regeneration, of culture and “craic” (fun), of little secrets and famous locals. And it’s a place that gets under your skin. Walk through these city streets, and you’ll discover stories everywhere, from St Mary’s Cathedral – the oldest building in the city in continuous use – to the University of Limerick, set on the banks of the River Shannon.
The Hunt Museum, Limerick city
Courtesy Fáilte Ireland
Few places bring Limerick’s history to life better than King John’s Castle. Perched on King’s Island beside the Shannon, the castle has been here for more than 800 years. Built on a site with earlier Viking connections, it now features multimedia exhibitions detailing tales of medieval life, devastating sieges and a fascinating cast of characters.
For artefacts and artworks including works by Picasso, Renoir and Jack B Yeats, don’t miss the Hunt Museum. This exceptional collection, sourced over a lifetime by John and Gertrude Hunt, is housed in the historic 18th-century former Custom House.
Georgian elegance and rugby greatsIt’s just a short stroll from here to Limerick’s Georgian Quarter, where the streetscape opens up into wide, elegant avenues lined with grand architecture.
The People’s Museum of Limerick has a fascinating collection of items and artefacts, but it’s the building itself that’s the real showpiece – a beautiful example of 18th-century architecture. Just down the road, the Limerick City Gallery of Art keeps things fresh with changing contemporary art exhibitions.
On the other side of the River Shannon is Thomond Park Stadium, home of the Munster Rugby team. If you can catch a game here, it’s well worth it – the atmosphere is electric, and the roar of the crowd is enough to give you goosebumps.
Bunratty Castle, County Clare
Chris Hill Photographic
The beautiful village of Adare in County Limerick, with its rows of thatched cottages, makes a great day trip from Limerick, but the region around the city is also rich in history, with Bunratty Castle a particular highlight.
Fancy some watersports? Follow the River Shannon up to Lough Derg, where you can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding and more. Limerick is also well placed for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way – head north and Loop Head, the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren are within reach.
Or take a trip south and you’ll reach the “kingdom” of Kerry, with the Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head beckoning. If you want to uncover more of Ireland’s past, detour inland to experience the wonders of Ireland’s Ancient East at County Tipperary’s iconic Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle.
