World-class rugby experience opens in Limerick

If you’re a rugby fan, touchdown in Limerick to visit the new topclass visitor attraction celebrating the game and its international heroes.

With Ireland’s rugby team officially hailed as the world’s number one, it is fitting that a new world-class rugbycentred attraction has recently opened on the island.

The International Rugby Experience takes visitors into the heart of the game, its history and its legends and is aptly located in Limerick, one of the great centres of rugby on the island of Ireland.

Presenting fascinating rugby stories, gathered from all corners of the globe, and featuring tales from across the generations, the interactive, multi-sensory experience is a unique celebration of the sport.

Visitors pass through six zones on a journey from the grass roots of rugby right up to legendary status. Each stage is rooted in World Rugby’s values of Passion, Discipline, Integrity, Solidarity and Respect.

You will hear the inspirational stories of global stars of the sport who, through passion and hard work, have become legends of the game. And, you’ll discover how rugby has impacted politics, brought rivals together, transformed communities and improved lives.

More than simply a feast of statistics and rugby facts and figures, it is a fully-immersive, hands-on experience designed to engage and inspire. Vast media installations bring all the exciting energy of game day. Immersive theatre spaces relive some of the most famous moments in rugby history, and a series of huge, game-style interactive trials put the visitor’s own running, kicking, strength and handling skills to the test.

The experience is housed within a building of striking architecture, designed to reflect the bonds and connections within a rugby team and community. It rises up from the street into a modern tower from where you can enjoy panoramic views over the city.

A unique sculpture in the foyer reflects the sport’s international dimension. The intricate spherical piece acts as a global map, with the locations of rugby clubs and international teams highlighted by glowing glass lenses.

Guided and self-guided tours are available. There is also a café and gift shop stocking local and national artists and brands, from Limerick art, contemporary ceramics and wellness products to rugby-inspired prints, books and clothing.

After visiting the International Rugby Experience make sure to see Limerick City’s other great sights.

King John’s Castle, overlooking the riverfront, encapsulates 800 years of history, which is told through interactive exhibitions and brought to life through costumed re-enactments.

More of the city’s history can be discovered in its many museums while a pleasant afternoon can be passed browsing the stalls of the bustling Milk Market.

The newly opened International Rugby Experience has been crowned Ireland’s favourite building for 2023.

The Limerick museum came out on top in the Public Choice category at the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) Awards, finishing ahead of 53 other shortlisted nominees