Historical Limerick
Limerick has a rich history and strong heritage, both of which remain ever present in its structures, its streets and its people. From King John’s Castle, St. Mary’s Cathedral and Folk Park, to the Treaty Stone, Foynes Flying Boat and Lough Gur, this beautifully modern city is truly a historical oasis that must be seen to be believed.
Step into an entertaining and informative walking tour through the Jacobite history of Limerick, back to the sieges of 1690 and 1691 that led to the broken Treaty of Limerick. Discover where the battles were fought, meet Patrick Sarsfield, and uncover the hidden story of the war of the three Kings.
Located in the heart of Limerick’s medieval quarter, step inside the walls of our city’s most iconic landmark, King John’s Castle. Situated on the banks of the roaring Shannon River, this spectacular 13th-century Norman castle includes a treasure trail, a host of interactive exhibitions and even the chance to climb the ancient towers for spectacular views. Children will love the dazzling array of computer-generated animations and ghostly projections, as they travel back through time. The Education & Activity Room is also bustling with tasks to stimulate their curious minds. The visitor centre boasts a range of state-of-the-art interpretive activities and exhibitions, including touch screen technology, 3D models and a number of discovery drawers, all of which are designed to connect you to tales of siege and warfare.
Use GEORGE15 to receive 15% off admission when you book online
One of the oldest domestic buildings still in use in Limerick, The Limerick Civic Trust took over The Bishop’s Palace in 1986, when it was a complete ruin. They then expertly transformed it into the building it is today – a magnificent piece of historical architecture that houses some of the finest art exhibitions found anywhere in Ireland. Adjacent to King’s John’s Castle, there has been a building on the site of the palace as far back as the 1500s, with the current building dating back to around 1740. Steeped in folklore and history, The Bishop’s Palace is open to the public daily, where you can enjoy the Carroll Collection – one of many ‘Walks Through History’ to experience at Limerick Civic Trust HQ.
Angela’s Ashes Walking Tour is a fantastic walking tour in Limerick that takes in locations featured in Dr. Frank McCourt’s Pulitzer Prize winning biography. Angela’s Ashes is his famous memoir that describes the story of the McCourt family as it attempts to survive daily life and hardships in Limerick during the 1930 and 1940s.
King’s Island is the oldest part of Limerick and is the administrative heart of the city. The city has been run from here for centuries and the area’s imposing buildings span that time. From earliest times, the administrative centre of the city was situated in English Town, first with the construction of King John’s Castle and later with the establishment of the Tholsel, which was the city’s first town hall, built in 1449. Other medieval gems you can enjoy across the city include St Mary’s Cathedral and the remains of Bourke’s House, a fortified tower house.
Located on the edge of the picturesque village of Adare, this historic castle was erected with an ancient ringfort around it in the early part of the 13th century. It quickly became a strategic fortress during the following turbulent years. It was the property of the Earls of Kildare for nearly 300 years until the rebellion in 1536, when it was forfeited and granted to the Earls of Desmond who gave the castle its present name. Tours of this magnificent 13th-century Norman Castle operate daily from June to the end of September, by shuttle bus from the Heritage Centre on the main street. Groups may be accommodated outside of these months on request. Please note that tours are conducted through English. Multilingual options are available by request but booking is essential.
The Barringtons moved to England in the 1920s and in 1927 they sold their majestic castle and its surrounding lands to the Benedictine Order. It became an abbey in 1957, to which visitors are always welcome. While here, you can walk in the extensive grounds, including the 17th-century terrace garden. You can also participate in the community’s worship (at set times throughout the day), visit the Icon Chapel (by arrangement) and browse in the Abbey Book and Gift Shop.
Located just a short stroll from the hotel, The Cathedral of Saint Mary Blessed Virgin has had a long and eventful history. It was founded in 1168 on the site of a palace donated by Donal Mor O’Brien, King of Munster. Experts believe that parts of the palace are incorporated into the present structure of the Cathedral. The most prominent is the West Door, which legend has it was the main entrance to the palace. The palace had been built on the site of the Viking meeting house. This had been the centre of government in the early medieval Viking city. The Cathedral has seen many changes as the city expanded around it and it remains today the oldest and most historic building in Limerick.
