Things to do in Limerick

King John’s Castle

King John’s 13th Century fortress on the banks of the Shannon River was recently renovated to better explain its history, which includes medieval battles, a siege and, naturally, a lot of interkingdom trade. With a self-led tour and lots of interactive displays to explore, it’s also home to the best view of the stunning Shannon River you’ll find.

Thomond Park

Munster, the iconic rugby team representing Ireland’s south province, plays the majority of its home games at this smart, modern stadium. Thomond Park also hosts the occasional gig and colourful storytelling tours for non-event days. Munster is at the very core of Limerick life, making this an essential stop-off.

St Mary’s Cathedral

One of two cathedrals in the city, St Mary’s has been at the heart of Limerick’s religious life since the 12th Century. As the oldest building in the city, much of Limerick has grown up around this spot, and you can touch a little of that history in the scratch marks around the west door where defenders of the city sharpened their swords during the city siege eight centuries ago.

The Milk Market

Limerick’s home to all the locally produced fresh food you could ask for (and a growing number of impressive foodie offerings based upon farm products, in particular), the iconic Milk Market is full of great finds; while its surroundings date back more than a century and-a-half One of Ireland’s most enticing markets, it can be quiet during the week but really comes to life on bustling Saturdays.

Terra Nova Fairy Garden

The mythical side of Irish life 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.

Adare

A picture-postcard 13th Century village set against a rural river bank, Adare is just gorgeous. The Heritage Centre, creamery, manor and abbey make it a very worthwhile way of spending a day and give a very different sense of what Limerick is, other than the city itself.

The Hunt Museum

A locally themed, ever-changing museum displaying the largest private collection in Ireland, The Hunt Museum mixes art, antiques, early Irish history and the establishment of Christian institutions. There’s a strong collection from Greece and Italy too, but it’s the local history, covered in detail through eclectic items (ranging from tribal drinking horns to Celtic cross carvings), that’s the must-see.

Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum

This appealing mishmash of attractions hosts a full-size replica of a B314 flying boat, an exhibition on the history of Shannon

River and a nearby 1940s style tearoom. There are also Irish coffees served in this spot that claims to have invented them. The exploration of 1930s and 1940s trans-Atlantic flights (the preserve of the uber-rich) is also a highlight.