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31 Best Stops Between Birr and Ennis
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Birr to Ennis?
The direct drive from Birr to Ennis is 78.9 mi (127 km), and should have a drive time of 1 hr 24 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Birr to Ennis, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Limerick, as well as top places to visit like Donaghmore Workhouse & Agricultural Museum and Lough Boora Discovery Park, or the ever-popular Slieve Bloom Mountains.
Visiting Birr or Ennis? See our Birr Trip Planner and our Ennis Trip Planner.
78.9 mi
Total Distance
1 hr 24 mins
Drive Time
31 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top city between Birr and Ennis
The top city between Birr and Ennis is Limerick. It's 1 hour from Birr and less than an hour from Ennis.
1
Limerick
Limerick, located in the southwest of Ireland, is a picturesque county with a rich history and stunning landscapes. The city of Limerick boasts the impressive 13th-century King John’s Castle, situated on an island in the Shannon River. Visitors can explore the Hunt Museum, housed in the old customs house, which showcases a diverse collection of art and antiquities.
Most popular city on this route
5 minutes off the main route, 64% of way to Ennis
Best stops along Birr to Ennis drive
The top stops along the way from Birr to Ennis (with short detours) are Rock of Cashel, King John's Castle, and Clonmacnoise Monastic Site. Other popular stops include Birr Castle Demesne, Dunguaire Castle, and Cahir Castle.
1Martin W — Google reviewDeclan D — Google reviewSarah G — Google reviewBuddah — Google reviewBrid C — Google reviewSiobhan R — Google reviewSam D — Google review•
Slieve Bloom Mountains
Mentioned on
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Mountains
The Slieve Bloom Mountains, located in the south of Offaly, rise gracefully above farmland and bogs. Despite their modest height, reaching just 526 meters at the peak of Arderin, these mountains exude understated charm. The area is home to Ireland's first organized system of gites, offering comfortable self-catering accommodations in restored farmhouses.
I loved this place. A great getaway for the weekend. You need to find the right trail that could take you through beautiful woods and waterfall. I didn’t know about it so missed the waterfall
Kanchan K — Google review
Beautiful place, but unfortunately Google maps directed us from the village of Clonaslee via narrow forestry roads for about 10 km which is a long and winding rough road takes you about 30 minutes to reach a locked gate with the correct parking area /road on other side where you can see the correct route.... but you have to go all the way down the wrong route again. Not a pleasant experience and the worst Google maps experience ever !!!!
I must have hiked this in the wrong direction as I could only follow the signs for so long until I just ended up wandering aimlessly through a field!! I found a road on Google maps and just headed for that in the end up. Had a great time, saw some tiny waterfalls and a few deer.
I parked at the Glenbarrow car park and did the blue route. A moderate walking route. Lovely waterfall on the route.
Brilliant few days camping and raving in the woods
What a view from the top. A great drive, but not for the faint hearted. 1450 feet above sea level the views are truly breathtaking
Omg what an amazing place I will.be going back here alot truly beautiful
Brilliant location for photography however the weather changes very swiftly and I was unfortunately rained off.
4.8
(68)
4.5
(85)
Glendineoregan, Co. Laois, Ireland
2Lisa M — Google reviewUncle M — Google reviewMaria B — Google reviewSean M — Google reviewMark S — Google reviewRon A — Google reviewAnna P — Google review•
Donaghmore Workhouse & Agricultural Museum
Museum
History Museums
I really enjoyed stopping here on my way to Kildare. I learned a lot about a bit of Irish history I was not aware of. The hosts were very kind and knowledgeable. Worth the visit.
Maryallknowing — Google review
Our guide was very knowledgeable and funny and kept us entertained. We were there near closing time and she made us feel like there was no rush. There are a lot of donated pieces of history here, and it was good to be able to go around and see them. The bathrooms were spotless.
What a place with an abundance of HISTORY and the guide Michael a Legend unrelacepable. As for the Site itself Laois County Council should be ashamed of itself to let an Historic place like this left abandoned SHAMEFUL. It's our history preserve it.
Took a detour today and so glad I did. Sean is a fabulous guide all the dates and figures, don’t know how he does it. It is heartbreaking hearing the history of this place and workhouses in Ireland. It is also heartbreaking that Laois County Council are not investing in this. They deserve funding and more visitors. I was a lucky person today to have ‘personal’ guide.
It was brilliant our tour guide Sean was so knowledgeable and friendly
A very well done tour. Perfect amount of information, both from the guide and from the various placards and photos located at the site both inside and out. We put this museum on our list to see the workhouse and expected nothing more. The guided tour provided so much more to our experience. And the AG museum had interesting local history which for us was a total bonus
Excellent place to view agricultural artifacts from times gone by and learn about the conditions of workhouses of the 19th and early 20th century. They are doing great work restoring the workhouse within the grounds of what most knew only as the farming co-op for generations. Enda is an excellent guide, he is very informative and personable. Heart breaking to hear of the conditions whole families endured in these times and to visit the mass grave of untold thousands of poor souls.
A very interesting place with an interesting history. Only cash was accepted.
4.5
(198)
4.5
(44)
Dunacleggan, Donaghmore, Co. Laois, R32 PC58, Ireland
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3Zurrah R — Google reviewAlissa F — Google reviewWitold C — Google reviewLucy — Google reviewMelinda M — Google reviewElizabeth B — Google reviewMary M — Google review•
Lough Boora Discovery Park
Mentioned on
Park
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Lough Boora Discovery Park offers a natural setting with shaded walking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for fishing and birdwatching. The park features a Fairy Trail with 14 fairies living in Fairy Avenue, along with lakeside Mesolithic sites discovered in 1977. Visitors can enjoy long walks through woods and Peatland, suitable for both kids and adults. The sculpture trail showcases interactive pieces made from bog wood and remnants of old trains used to work the land.
It was an amazing experience. All good. I wanna thank Donna for the service and well being she gave us riding instructions and she is so kind and helpful, The bikes are well maintained and clean. I'm suggesting it 1000%
Haitam K — Google review
Lovely place for long walk n nature. We went when cafe was closed and couldn’t hire a bike but still we enjoyed our quiet quality time there. Good for families and toddlers please bring stroller for kids. But it’s a good place for family to hangout together. Highly recommended definitely will visit again as it has a history too👍
There were no staff available and minimal signage. A lot of areas were closed off due to construction, so only the long routes were available.
Really nice for a romantic stroll or walk with the family. Also good for morning and/or evening exercise.
Once you figure our how to read the map, you are left to hunt for the little colored arrows like Easter eggs. Again, some better signage would be great. Some of the information plaques are terribly weathered and need replacing.
Had a mini photoshoot for my birthday. Pictures turned out great!
An interesting place for a family walk. Bike rental and three trails to choose from. You can buy coffee or snacks at the coffee shop.Lots of nature, beautiful views, a bit of history and art. I recommend it!
Nice place for picnic, walks and lovely day spent in the nature, we absolutely loved it there. There is few trails you can take, lots of sculptures around, also fairy walk and beautiful woods. Great for day out with kids, bring their bikes or scooters. Little café closes at 4. Fantastic day.
Beautiful park with long walking paths, bike rental, lakes and interesting sights. The café is a nice bonus – a great place to spend a few hours.
Neat stop on our way to Gallway from Dublin. The grounds are pretty huge and looked great for biking. Bike rentals are available. Bathrooms and a cafe are a short walk from the main parking lot. Would definitely recommend looking at the map if you're walking because it really is an expensive place. Loved the sculptures we did see, the others are kinda spread out.
Great place for a day out for all ages. Free entry and parking. Lovely staff. Walking and biking trails. Very interesting sculpture trail. Great variety of wild flowers especially wild orchids.
4.7
(1898)
4.7
(310)
Boora, Lea Beg, Tullamore, Co. Offaly, Ireland
4Tina R — Google reviewRazorbaby2552 — Google reviewSharon C — Google reviewSoledad R — Google reviewMarsha M — Google reviewManuel C — Google reviewMeg K — Google review•
Leap Castle, Ireland
Mentioned on
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Leap Castle in Ireland is a 16th-century fortress that has a violent and tragic past, which many believe has left it haunted. While the castle may appear small on the inside due to its abundance of tables and gadgets, visitors should not miss the opportunity to explore the top floor for a breathtaking view and a visit to the first-floor bedroom. The castle's tour guide, Shawn, is known for sharing all of its stories with visitors.
A step back in time to a castle steeped in history. Sean, the owner has spent his life restoring the castle bit by bit. It was a shame I'd had car trouble that day, causing me to arrive only 30 mins prior to closure at 5:00. Do contact Sean in advance as a courtesy before you arrive, as it is their family home, as well as Castle. See the many videos there on You Tube about Leap Castle in advance, so you'll be somewhat aware of the history of this special place. Contact Sean by email. His contact address is on the official website, where you'll also find even further info about the Castle.
P.J. M — Google review
One of the most haunted castles in Europe with a dark history. It was nice to be able to walk through and see how the owner Sean has kept it over the last 20+ years. A must see!
This is a drive up castle to get out and take pictures. I do not belive you can go inside the castle. Someone does live there. It is a nice castle.
If your in to true history of castles, this may be a small one but the old guy who owns it lives there! He tells a good history story, hands you a flashlight and allows you to go up the narrow dark stairs to check it out. Must see. €6 to walk through but ring the doorbell first. A lot of artifacts to check out. Not for kids or people with small space anxiety.
A beautiful and authentic Irish castle full of history. Sean, the owner, bought the castle a few years ago and knows everything about its past. He welcomes visitors warmly and encourages you to explore every corner. The €6 entry fee helps with restoration, which is a great cause. Visiting feels personal and real, not commercial. A perfect stop if you want to experience traditional Ireland and support local heritage.
Amazing castle ruin being refurbished by a true Irishman. The host was full of great historical information and even played the whistle for us. One of the best stops on our trip! Make sure you bring cash for the $6 suggested donation.
5 stars expérience. Sean was a great host and sharing is knowledge about the castle history was really interesting to listen to to.
Visiting the castle was also impressive since he as done all the restoration by himself. Just make sure you knock at the door of the castle on arrival since the ring bell ain’t working.
My grandaughter wanted to experience 'the most haunted castle in Ireland' . It's in a beautiful location & has an interesting story, as well as some lovely antiques in a partially restored castle
4.6
(595)
4.5
(163)
EIRCODE ? R421, Leap, Roscrea, Co. Offaly, Ireland
5Damien S — Google reviewTabitha-Robyn F — Google reviewWendy — Google reviewEugene S — Google reviewOrson I — Google reviewJeffrey K — Google reviewJean-Claude R — Google review•
Athlone Tourist Information Centre
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Tourist information center
Castles
Athlone Castle is a 13th-century fortress situated by the River Shannon and features eight interactive exhibition rooms with chronological themes. The castle showcases modern and engaging displays that depict the town's turbulent history and its evolution through time. The highlight of the castle is Siege Experience, which takes place in a circular panoramic gallery. The Normans built this castle in 1210 after asserting their power over Athlone's ancient river ford, which played an essential role as a crossroad on the Shannon.
Athlone Castle is stunning. Incredible views. The staff were so nice and helpful. We were very lucky weather wise and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
K D — Google review
Great central location. The views from the castle of the city is nice. The price is a few euros and worthy of the material on display. For children it is good as there is alot to see. Well worth a look
With the staff being well informed about both Irish and Scottish history, proved the information centre to be really informative. As a traveler, it’s always good to find recommendations of local places that Google may not tell you about. This tourism centre was easy to find and it’s part of the Adamson Castle.
You are greeted warmly by friendly staff and they’ll ask you a little bit about why you’re visiting, they can give you the right information as long as you ask.
If you didn’t know, they also have self-guided tours inside the Athlone Tourist Information Centre, if you’re trying to waste a little extra time for your flight, also assuming you’re interested in seeing the remains of the Adamson Castle that was built in the 12th century.
This was nothing like we expected. The castle looked cool from the outside but it was essentially made into a modern “museum”, it was not a castle tour. Of our 10 days in Ireland so far, this is the first thing we did that we felt was a waste of time and money.
Very interesting place, small museum, I set 4 stars, just because of several rooms and attentions have been closed, and also in was not for free as others do in during pandemic, overall I really recommend to visit, it can be also not better then Bunratty castle, but anyway good enough
Went today, very beautiful, definitely recommend this and it’s history. Very great view as well
It looked good from the outside then it was dearer than Kilkenny castle so I didn't go in
I don't know how you can price something in Athlone higher than Kilkenny
Nice castle and tourist information. You will have to pay to get in.
4.4
(72)
4.3
(901)
Castle St, Athlone And Bigmeadow, Athlone Castle, Co. Westmeath, N37 EA32, Ireland
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6Frank M — Google reviewOlive K — Google reviewJoe C — Google reviewRazorbaby2552 — Google reviewAoife K — Google reviewЮлия — Google reviewВіктор — Google review•
Birr Castle Demesne
Mentioned on
Garden
Nature & Parks
Birr Castle Demesne is a stunning destination featuring award-winning gardens, rare trees, and peaceful rivers. The 50-hectare grounds are famous for their magnificent gardens set around a large artificial lake. Visitors can explore the castle's living quarters on tours during the summer months and learn about its rich history dating back to 1620. Additionally, the demesne houses a science center with a 19th-century telescope, offering insights into science and engineering history.
Outstanding historical site and home of Earls of Ross. Recommend half a day for this visit. The self guided museum tour is what we did and it was excellent. We went outside, walked around the gardens and saw the telescope. You need a few hours to spend in the gardens and you could do lunch there or bring a picnic. excellent educational value. Th third Earl of Ross designed built and used the telescope and the fourth Earl of Ross invented the steam turbine.
Marie H — Google review
A "must see" if you're in Birr. Over 120 acres of buildings, walks, lakes and woods to explore. Entry fee is €12 pp and well worth it if you have a few hours to spare. Science Hall is a highlight as it features historical instruments on display. A really great attraction. Parking nearby.
Love Birr Castle, part of our heritage. It's beautiful gardens and walkways offer peace and serenity along with amazing colours. Fabulous places to sit and meditate and enjoy life and it's surroundings ar it's Best.
Stopped off in Birr today and was not disappointed. A beautiful and historic place. A gardens are wonderful and the telescope, playground and castle itself are impressive. Hard to believe that from 1845-1914 this remained the largest telescope in the world! We didn’t get to sample the cafe but it looked good and the staff on reception were lovely - oh and for August children go free!!
Loved this castle experiences. My dad and I did the castle tour. Highly recommend it! It is awesome and the family still lives in the castle. They were amazing and super friendly!
Its amazing, loads to see and do. Just did a tour of the house, wow. The science centre is a must see and the gardens and history are amazing. The Patterson family have done such an amazing job keeping the place open for visitors. The cafe has beautiful buns and food and all the staff are gorgeous
Incredible landscape beauty, a lovely park, and the grandeur of the castle. You can walk for hours and even have a picnic surrounded by nature.
Very beautiful and big park for relaxation and walking. This is one of those places you should visit in Ireland. Also, this castle and areas are good for photo sessions.
4.6
(3913)
4.3
(901)
Rosse Row, Townparks, Birr, Co. Offaly, R42 V027, Ireland
7Griffin P — Google reviewEmma B — Google reviewKevin O — Google reviewGab's — Google reviewLisa V — Google reviewKim L — Google reviewClare N — Google review•
Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
Mentioned on
Monastery
Sights & Landmarks
Clonmacnoise is a ruined monastery in Ireland that was founded in the 6th century by St. Ciaran. Located next to the River Shannon, Clonmacnoise was once a thriving Christian monastery and served as a center for learning in Ireland. Today, Clonmacnoise is a beautiful and atmospheric ruin filled with stone ruins from centuries of monastic life.
If you like history, this place was lovely to visit and find out about the past. Video information to start, then lots to see and walk around. We all enjoyed the walk around the graveyard and old building, views of the river, visiting the nunnery up the road.
Donna P — Google review
This is a beautiful place to visit. The grounds are peaceful and well-maintained, with plenty of historic ruins to explore. The museum was also really interesting, giving great context to the site’s history. Definitely worth a stop if you’re in the area.
This place is gorgeous! The history movie before you enter was a wonderful picture of what’s going on. the grounds are small and should only take you 30minutes. On a sunny day the Greene as gorgeous
Clonmacnoise was founded in 544 AD by St. Ciarán who chose this site for its strategic location where the River Shannon meets ancient east–west land routes. From these humble beginnings, it flourished into a major center of religion, learning, craftsmanship, and trade, attracting scholars, pilgrims, and kings from across Ireland and beyond.
At its height between the 7th and 12th centuries, Clonmacnoise was home to a thriving monastic community. Here, monks produced illuminated manuscripts, crafted exquisite metalwork, and carved some of Ireland’s finest high crosses. The Cross of the Scriptures, a masterpiece of early medieval stone carving, stands as a testament to the skill and faith of its creators. The site also features two round towers, several churches spanning centuries, and over 700 carved grave slabs—each telling part of Clonmacnoise’s story.
Passionate and lovely people!
We arrived a little after the tour started, but the tour guy immediately welcomed us and made a little résumé of what we missed!!!
He was very passionate and nice, answered some questions along the way too!
We did arrive in the morning, so there weren't a lot of people around, which was perfect to explore the grounds in peace.
Well-preserved structure of a monastic city
The story of the place is fascinating and very interesting
You can start with a film (It lasts about 25 minutes) with an explanation of the structure and the ruins (from the beginning to the modern time)
Then you can visit the exhibition: the original high crosses are in here
Now you're ready to see the monastic site.
Nun's church is about 500 meters from the modern graveyard. There are not indication to reach it. So you can find the whispering arch at the entrance
This was a stop on our Ireland tour. I am so glad it was! Aiden was an entertaining, energetic, knowledgeable tour guide. He truly brought the place to life. The grounds and surrounding area are stunning and the story is wonderful as it is old.
I 100% recommend you go and try to get onto Aiden's tour!
Loved visiting this hidden gem. Great informative guided tour provided (20 min), then youre free to wander the historic site, and take a look at their museum which includes a short film.
4.6
(4469)
4.5
(911)
Clonmacnoise, Co. Offaly, N37 V292, Ireland
8Leeanne B — Google reviewMelinda M — Google reviewKirstin K — Google reviewLorraine K — Google reviewAngelika G — Google reviewMairead O — Google reviewTara T — Google review•
Glendeer Pet Farm
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Farm
Nature & Parks
Glendeer Pet Farm, an award-winning open farm in County Dublin, Ireland, offers a safe and carefree environment for children of all ages. The six-acre farm run by the OConnell family features a wide variety of animals including horses, ponies, pigs, goats, sheep, rabbits, chickens, ducks and more. Visitors can enjoy interacting with the animals and exploring the additional six acres recently opened for nature walks through fields and historic paths.
Wonderful Day at Glendeer Pet Farm!
We visited Glendeer Pet Farm today with our son, and it was an absolutely delightful experience. He had so much fun feeding the animals and exploring the beautiful fairy walkway. The toddler playroom was definitely the highlight for him — he didn't want to leave!
The entire place is well-maintained and thoughtfully designed for families. There are clean toilets, a convenient hand-washing area, and a baby diaper changing station, which made the visit very comfortable. The on-site café was a nice bonus with good food and drinks.
The staff were all incredibly kind and helpful, adding to the warm, welcoming atmosphere. With such a large area to explore and so many engaging activities, it’s a perfect day out for families with young children.
Highly recommend — we’ll definitely be back!
Jonisha J — Google review
Brilliant day out for families/groups with kids up to probably 12 years of age. Lots to do, we easily spent three hours there today until closing time. Tickets and gift shop were good value. Loads of space to run around and a fantastic playground with an obstacle course (two sides for racing against each other). If it's raining heavily there is also plenty of covered areas including a big sand pit with lots of toys. The staff were very helpful. The 1950's Traditional Irish cottage is gorgeous. We'll be back! 🙂
It is a beautifully maintained place with a wide variety of animals. Visitors have the opportunity to feed and pet them in a clean and well-organised environment. I truly enjoyed the experience and would highly recommend it.
Very nice farm but much smaller than we thought. Most animals nice. Happy to see babies of different species. I just wish staff didn't let a ton of small children pick up multiple animals, seemed very dangerous. I also didn't like that we bought 5 tickets but only received 3 bags of animal food.
We had a great day at Glendeer. The animals are so well cared for. Very friendly staff. We had a nice picnic, a great day out.
This place is just amazing I was not expecting to be so good . My son was very happy with the visit loads of activities for kids !
Very safe spot for kids to explore with a nice variety of animals to see and feed plus a great play area including sand pit for kids of all ages to enjoy!
Well worth the visit and for only €10 each that's value for money...we stopped in on our trip back from Galway...staff are lovely, friendly and very welcoming
4.7
(1113)
4.5
(272)
Curryroe, Athlone, Co. Roscommon, N37 HY39, Ireland
9Ofer B — Google reviewElisa A — Google reviewHolly S — Google reviewE G — Google reviewKevin O — Google reviewBethany E — Google reviewGriffin P — Google review•
Rock of Cashel
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
The Rock of Cashel, also known as St. Patrick's Rock, is a captivating historic site in Ireland. Perched on a prominent green hill with limestone outcrops, it boasts ancient fortifications and medieval edifices including a 12th-century tower, a Gothic cathedral, and the finest 12th-century Romanesque chapel in Ireland. Once the seat of the Kings of Munster, this hilltop complex offers fantastic views over the Tipperary countryside.
Majestic ruins sitting high on the rocks with fantastic views all around. The ruins are beautiful, stone detailing is abundant through the site and the round tower is a true highlight. 8 euros to visit, and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Does get quite busy in the afternoons!
Lewis G — Google review
Took my kids (8&12) who enjoyed the castle for 20 minutes or so. We didn't take the guided tour, just walked around. The cemetery was impressive to the kids, so was the kitchen display. I enjoyed it a lot! Worth the visit in my opinion. We walked around town afterwards, nice little place.
The moment you arrive, the place hits you with this incredible mix of history, majesty, and pure ‘wow.’ The views alone are worth the journey, along with that unmistakable feeling of standing somewhere truly special.
The site is beautifully maintained, and every corner has something impressive to see.
If you’re in Ireland, this is a must-see. Highly recommended!
An absolute gem!!! No wait for early morning entry. Recommend the tour for more in depth history. Allow about 2 hours overall. Well maintained ruins and graveyard. A must see when in southern Ireland.
Amazing ruins with breathtaking views. We arrived very early as it was our 2nd stop on our tour. Our small tour group were the only ones there at 8am, but others were arriving as we were ending our tour. There is a lot of walking so bring comfortable shoes.
The Rock of Cashel, rises dramatically above the Tipperary landscape and is one of Ireland’s most iconic historic sites. Once the seat of the kings of Munster, it later became a powerful ecclesiastical center, reflecting a long intertwining of political and religious authority. The complex includes impressive medieval structures such as the 12th-century round tower, Cormac’s Chapel with its rare Romanesque frescoes, and the imposing Gothic cathedral. Surrounded by sweeping views of the Golden Vale, the Rock of Cashel embodies centuries of Irish heritage, making it both a symbol of regional power in early medieval Ireland and a masterpiece of sacred architecture.
Excellent tour guides. A must see when in Ireland.
Historic landmark. The juice is worth the squeeze. We didn’t do the full tour inside the chapel, but the general admission gets you enough of the tour that you’ll be pleased. Also I think the tour was an hour-which seems like a bit much for a property of this size. Overall, the grounds were easy enough to tour and learn about , provided the QR code.
The historic buildings and ruins are impressive, and the views from the top are breathtaking. Walking around the site really gives you a sense of Ireland’s rich history—it’s a must-visit.
4.6
(16175)
4.4
(4336)
St. Patricksrock, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland
10Paul C — Google reviewMax W — Google reviewMichael G — Google reviewSteph G — Google reviewAndrea A — Google reviewAndre H — Google reviewJesse H — Google review•
Hore Abbey Entrance
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Ancient Ruins
Hore Abbey Entrance is a captivating site that beckons history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. Nestled near the iconic Rock of Cashel, this 13th-century Cistercian monastery offers a glimpse into Ireland's rich past. Founded in 1272, the abbey features impressive ruins including a cruciform church, tower, square cloister, and living quarters.
What a stunning place! I've seen many ruins, but never one that was so freely available to all. No visitor centre, no car park, no queues or tickets. Just a lovely natural setting. The only thing I wish they had was brief information boards explaining different parts of the ruins and their history.
Therese J — Google review
Free admission. Well preserved structure, considering its age. Short walk from town, nice views of the 'Rock' from here too.
Great place. Much better than the Rock of Cashel located on a hill above the abbey. Walking down to it through the sheep pasture and then getting through the cow pasture is an experience on its own. The abbey itself is not crowded and well preserved. Very fun to see.
A stunning abbey with loads to explore. Its setting in the middle of a large field and with cows for company gets you ready to search out it most interesting little gems. The Rock Of Cashel is in the back ground and in a way they are both connected. Parking is on the side road and a its superb location to visit, cheers
One of my favourite spots in the south of Ireland. It is so underrated and well kept! It is also free of charge ♡ The ruins are gorgeous and certainly gave me that peaceful feeling that I look for when visiting places like these! There is a small cemetery at the back, and stunning views of Rock of Cashel. To enter you must follow the footpath into the private fields, please respect the fields and don't litter. P.S. When in the abbey, don't forget to look up :)
There is no good place to park but it's a short walk from town and there's a little walkway trail from the Rock of Cashel to the Abbey, just follow the signs for the Tipperary Heritage Walk. There is a gate at the entrance with a little information about the Abbey. There is a path from the gate to the Abbey that crosses a cow pasture, be careful to avoid cow patties. The Abbey has a lot to see and it's free. We stayed just up the road at O'Brien's Lodge so it was easy to get there.
This Abbey can be seen from the grounds of the Rock of Cashel and is within walking distance , probably 10-15mins. If you go by car there is very limited parking
We went by car and what made this unique was we had to cross a field of cows to get to the Abbey which for us made it more fun. You enter at your own risk but the cows never bothered us. The Abbey was bigger than we expected and in good shape in many places. As it's in the middle of a field it also makes for some great photo shots .
If you visiting Rock of Cashel then pop in to the Abbey
It's nice to be able to walk around ruins without a conglomerate of people buzzing about. If you want to examine some nice ruins not too far off the road this is a nice place. Plus it is a short walk through two fields beyond the Rock of Cashel.
4.7
(285)
4.5
(567)
Rock House, St Patricks Rock St. Patricksrock, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland
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11Tara H — Google reviewВіктор — Google reviewRebecca D — Google reviewE G — Google reviewJay S — Google reviewKyle B — Google reviewHannah S — Google review•
Cahir Castle
Mentioned on
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Cahir Castle, located in Cahir, County Tipperary, Ireland, is a 12th-century fortress situated on a river island. Originally built by Conor O'Brien in 1142 and later acquired by the Butler family, it boasts impressive defensive features such as a keep, moat, massive walls with turrets, mullioned windows, and dungeons. The castle's history includes an attack in 1599 that shattered its walls and is explained through a large model on display.
The guided tour is informative and helps you picture how life here looked centuries ago, from battles to daily routines. Even without a tour, the information panels are clear and easy to follow.
Practical tips for visitors:
• Tickets: Affordable, with discounts for families. You can also get a combined ticket with the nearby Swiss Cottage, which I highly recommend – it’s only a short scenic walk away.
• Facilities: Small gift shop with local books and souvenirs. Toilets are on-site and clean.
• Accessibility: Some areas have steep stairs and uneven ground, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Parking: Free and close to the entrance.
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and beautiful light for photos.
If you love history, film locations, or just want a peaceful day trip, Cahir Castle delivers.
Oksana O — Google review
Visited Cahir Castle on a Friday en route to Killarney. We opted for a self-guided tour at our pace, having read it's history prior to arrival. We were able to explore several rooms within the castles interior, much of which has been restored, but it was still a great experience. Staff are very friendly and provided a map of the castle grounds for easy navigation. Parking was convenient near the castle and there are restaurants across the street for a quick bite or sit-down meal.
I like this place. I find it very peaceful and romantic because of animals and birds in this park. There is also a nice castle here with a river and bridges where you can have a wonderful walk. During the sunset this scenery is incredible. In my opinion even rain haters can start love the rain here.
Fantastic visit 😀 free entry the first Wednesday of each month which was a bonus. The grounds are lovely on a clear day or morning 🌄 and exploring the castle was fascinating! We walked around alone and could explore every tower and room! Brave heart and Excalibur films were shot here and the grounds are in great shape. Be mindful of how steep the stairs are and if you dont like tight spaces or spiders, avoid the dungeon area! Overall a lovely way to spend about an hour and a half. So glad we added it onto our itinerary ! 😌
We purchased a tour and this was the first stop. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and welcoming. So much history here. Beautiful kept grounds. There was a lot of walking but we'll worth it. I wish had a little more time there but we were able to see a lot of the grounds.
Beautiful castle in the middle of town next to a river and a community park. We got lucky that we pretty much had the castle all to ourselves. The castle is in great condition and you can easily spend about an hour exploring every room. Unfortunately the bookstore was closed for the season but we still had a lot of fun.
One of the most wonderful spots I’ve visited in Ireland. The castle is really well preserved,a dream for both kids and adults alike. I went up and down every stair and loved every bit of it. Hard to believe it’s only €5 — such a brilliant experience. Would absolutely recommend it to anyone ❤️
Very impressed with this castle! Tickets were 5 euros to enter, and it is very worth it to explore the castle and learn about the history. You can walk all around and inside the building, even up many of the towers. Definitely would recommend!
4.6
(6071)
4.5
(725)
Castle St, Townparks, Cahir, Co. Tipperary, E21 P652, Ireland
12Meghan — Google reviewJens S — Google reviewRenata H — Google reviewElaine — Google reviewAndrea M — Google reviewLogan's E — Google reviewJac W — Google review•
Tipperary Mountain Trekking Centre
Mentioned on
Horse riding school
Outdoor Activities
Tipperary Mountain Trekking Centre is a family-run equestrian center located in the Tipperary Uplands, offering private treks through pristine mountain pastures. The guided one and two-hour treks take riders off-road over historic meadows with stunning views and ancient archaeological sites. Visitors praise the staff for their attentiveness to both experienced riders and novices, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and safe throughout the ride.
My wife, son and I really enjoyed our time with Tipperary. I think we took the Scenic Trek. Since the weather was good, we rode for more than an hour. The staff was super accommodating. The Trek was like six activities in one. We 1) got a classical riding lesson as we were all trained in Western riding. 2) We, of course, got to ride horses. 3) The scenery was magnificent. The vistas of the hills were brilliant. We got so many great family photos. 4) There were multiple history/archeology lessons as Clare, the owner, was full of information on the local ruins and the stonework left behind. 5) The wildflowers were beautiful and everywhere. My horse made sure to show me the best tasting leaves and grass. 6) Yoga: We got a horse yoga lesson at the end. Which helped us to stretch before we alighted (got off) our ride.
We were told ahead of time that if it started raining the Trek may have to be cut short. If you spend any time in Ireland this is always a possibility. The risk is well worth the reward. I would have enjoyed even just 30 minutes of this tour.
This ride was the best I have ever been on. The staff is super friendly. The son, who is nine, talked a poor young Frenchman’s ear off, and later would not stop talking about how much he enjoyed the cultural exchange with him. Clare the owner was very down to earth, and her and all her staff showed joy in their horses, riding and their slice of Ireland. Very importantly, the horses were healthy and well cared for. You could tell they had affection for Clare and the staff.
Jason J — Google review
What a brilliant facility!! Able to cater for all levels of riding, including experienced riders who prefer a more fast paced and exciting adventure. I rode here two days in a row and both rides exceeded my expectations!
Clare and Renee were absolutely lovely. They even made sure to tell the many stories that explain the history of the mountains!
To top it off - to the knowledgeable eye, you can really tell these guys love and care for their animals exceptionally well. Could not reccomend them any more 🥰
Without a doubt, this is a 5-star destination that I can't recommend enough for any adventurer with a love for horses. Tipperary Mountain Trekking Centre offers an incredibly authentic and memorable experience, run by a wonderfully welcoming family who make you feel right at home.
Our 2-hour trek was simply breathtaking. We rode through hundreds of acres of unspoiled mountain pastures with stunning panoramic views. It's a truly special experience to ride through a landscape so rich in history, passing by ancient standing stones and the romantic ruins of old farmsteads.
For a small group, the value for money is exceptional. It's also fantastic that they offer expert lessons from a Stage 4 Senior Coach and horsemanship clinics, making it a perfect equestrian getaway. This place is a true find, and we are already planning our return!
This is the second time we have visited the Tipperary Mountain trekking site with my daughter.Both times, we have come back with very good experiences. Tipperary Mountain Trekking is unique in that they value the well-being and proper care of the horses just as much as the satisfaction of the guests arriving there. It was wonderful to see and experience that Clare and her daughter Lily not only provide a lifetime experience for the children attending their pony camp, but they also teach them to love and properly care for the horses. In addition, we owe them a huge Thanks for helping us with everything, both with information and with their generous offer of accommodation when our car broke down. A big thank you to Clare and Lily! We can’t wait for the next visit.
Went here with my mom yesterday morning had the most wonderful time. Absolutely beautiful views and Lily was very lovely and told us all the history about the surrounding place. The horses were very well loved and taken care of. Amazing experience would definitely recommend 👍
Magical horseback riding experience! Clare and her team were gracious and helpful with our family of five, including three young children. We loved riding through the bucolic Irish hills under rainbows.
My experience was amazing with Clare and Dante! Dante was a saint of a horse and completely changes the stereotype for Connemaras ( they are known to be being stubborn) but he was an amazing horse on the trek to upperchurch! Clare was amazing and full of knowledge about the land and the history and archeological site that were once there. I felt like a little kid again galloping through fields! Clare is amazing in her knowledge of herbs and plants in the area that are beneficial to horses and humans alike and she really cares for her horses and the well-being of all horses! She went above and beyond both on the ride and when I rang for some advice later on. The pub is the most charming pub and I was lucky to have it all to myself, the food was fresh and delicious ! It was truly the best experience all around and when we do come back to Ireland (flying into Shannon) this will be out first stop! 10/10 and suited for all riders just be honest and humble about your experience and you will have the time of your life. I tend to undersell myself when in Europe as American riding is much different as far as cross country so I say I'm a beginner and I've been riding and training for over 20+ years just for reference. Honestly everyone should experience this amazing countryside this way and you won't regret a moment of it. Thank you Clare for one of the best experiences in Ireland I am truly thankful and cannot wait to do it again!
Amazing place with the most welcoming and caring team. I've never felt more comfortable on the back of a horse. 10/10 👍
4.9
(115)
4.5
(48)
Rusheen House, Rusheen More, Borrisoleigh, Co. Tipperary, E41 X393, Ireland
13Marie R — Google reviewMark S — Google reviewMatt ( — Google reviewDonal S — Google reviewBroom C — Google reviewKatlin D — Google reviewJoshua S — Google review•
Irish Workhouse Centre
Mentioned on
Heritage museum
Sights & Landmarks
Located in Portumna, The Irish Workhouse Centre offers a powerful and moving experience that brings history to life. It is part of the Portumna Heritage Trail, which visitors can explore using a smartphone app. The workhouse was one of 163 built in Ireland between 1840 and 1853, serving as a last resort for the impoverished during a period of starvation. Visitors can take guided tours led by knowledgeable guides who bring this bleak period of Irish history to light.
What an informative visit. A part of our history that some may not be aware of. We spent a couple of hours with a guide who had a brilliant knowledge of the place. Seemingly only about 5000 visitors go there each year, which is shocking. Well worth a visit and not that expensive.
Christopher M — Google review
The tour was really interesting an it's absolutely worth going here. A really exciting story about the passt that one should know about Ireland. Our guide Mark was a great storyteller and told us many exciting but also tragic stories of the people who worked in this workhouse. The place and the tour are highly recommended. Thank you Mark.
This is a place for learning of the past to better the future. Top man In charge of the tour. His exhaustive knowledge and an obvious deep understanding of the workhouse and its place in world history made me feel compassion for the former workers who lived, died and were interned right here. Very powerful stuff!
Then as a beautiful bonus to your visit a rural museum with lots of interesting items and documents from the local area. 5 star gem of history that should continue to be preserved and most importantly respected as it is now by locals and visitors alike.
A little out of the way but very interesting to see. You can see why so many Irish emigrated when the options were either starvation or living in a poor house.
We decided last minute to book a tour at the Irish Workhouse Centre. It was great insight into the workings of the workhouses including the many sad & difficult stories of those people in the workhouses, all part of our Irish history. Fiona gave us a great guided tour. Would highly recommend the tour.
A fantastic day out – – particularly for those of us who have an interest in Irish heritage and history.
The restoration work and effort put in by the people behind this destination is unbelievably good.
And our tour guide- Padraic- made the day extra special. Take a bow 🙏
I can’t understand why this special place isn’t given more national publicity.
We wanted to take in everything Portumna had to offer the day we were there, and you would be missing out if you passed this stop by. The tour guide was very knowledgeable, the site is well preserved, given the age of the place and how their funding is created. I hope in future it comes under the national trust umbrella so the restoration and tours can be more realized. Very much worth the stop!
Among the castles and natural beauty of Ireland, this is truly an alternative hidden gem that is worth going out of your way to check out. Our visit to the Irish Workhouse Centre made a deep impression on us that lasted well beyond the end of our vacation to Ireland. It offers a unique and authentic side of Irish history that a conventional museum cannot convey. I highly recommend making this a stop if you are in the midlands or are traveling between Dublin and the west coast. Be sure to check the website for tour times, as a guided tour is obligatory.
4.8
(419)
4.9
(533)
St Brigid's Road, Portumna, Galway, H53 EK74, Ireland
141Enjoya — Google reviewGraces P — Google reviewKatlin D — Google reviewBrian H — Google reviewВіктор — Google reviewTenis R — Google reviewFrancis D — Google review•
Portumna Castle & Gardens
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Portumna Castle & Gardens, located in East Galway, is a grand 17th-century fortified house with Renaissance-style towers and gates. Built in 1618 by Richard de Burgo, the 4th Earl of Clanricarde, this historic estate features Jacobean-style architecture and an impressive rectangular block structure with a tower on each corner.
This impressive structure was built in 1600's in the medieval and Renaissance style, the house is currently, closed, however the huge estate is open, and there is plenty of walks to enjoy, as well as the friary ruins (to explore) and the castle harbour is the perfect place for a picnic lunch.
V H — Google review
So much love, time and work is put on this place. Is very saf to se signatures of some idiots on the walls inside. But is worth this.
I encourage you to buy a heritage card for all monuments that are under the care of the OPW
Interesting place, with a varied fascinating history.
So much hard work has gone into bringing it back to its current condition. The gardens were beautiful and also the Abbey ruins on site too. Lovely cafe on site too.
Loved the cheeky ducks who clearly know this is the place for some free food from the visitors and drinking from the dogs bowl tickled us!
The grounds and garden are beautiful. I look forward to see how the site evolves as the restorations and archeological investigations continue. I loved the addition of the tea room and art exhibit. And the gardens were absolutely fabulous. Could have spent another hour in them easily.
Such beautiful gardens and amazing history behind it. What a great place. The restaurant was stunning, and the food looked amazing. Would suggest the Chai Latte. Was perfect. The walking and riding routes are well maintained, and the staff are fantastic. Thank you so much for the hospitality.
It is a beautiful and quiet place where you can see horses and other hoofed animals. Good for walks and wedding photography. This place is definitely worth adding to the list of places to visit in Ireland. Not far from the castle, you can see a lake or another interesting areas.
Nice place to relax with the family. We had a great time. At the same time, it may need some maintenance specifically the kitchen garden and inside the castle.
Really helpful OPW staff will explain the history of this beautifully situated castle.
Cafe on site serves great, cakes. salads, lunches and its own lemonade.
4.6
(1083)
4.3
(266)
Portumna Demesne, Portumna, Co. Galway, H53 YK27, Ireland
15Joell G — Google reviewDanielle H — Google reviewDr. F — Google reviewMrCopper K — Google reviewFrank M — Google reviewCarol M — Google reviewAbid — Google review•
Nenagh Castle
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Historical landmark
Castles
Nenagh Castle is a 13th-century limestone structure featuring a prominent cylindrical keep and rich historical significance. The Norman keep, standing over 30 meters high, boasts a stone spiral staircase with 101 steps leading to the top. Visitors can access the tower for free and explore its four floors, culminating in an open-air area offering stunning views of Nenagh and the surrounding countryside.
Built is the early 1200's this is a stunning small castle, in lovely grounds, it is free to enter which is always a plus, the castle (walled) gardens are also worth a visit as is the cathedral, there is even a public toilet near the entrance.
V H — Google review
What a nice historic spot to happen upon! We saw the top of the castle from a few blocks away and decided to find it. When we arrived, we found the castle open and the tours were free! Nice perk!
Great stop for a good view over Nenagh, lovely park with benches for a nice spot to sit and have a coffee if the weather is good. There is beautiful gardens off to the side too. When the castle is open , it is an insightful visit that can teach you loads about the towns history. The view from the roof is great. Stairs are narrow and steep, just take them slow. The restoration work is great
Well-maintained castle with free entry. We spent approximately 90 minutes there and enjoyed the adventurous climb up the 101 steps. There are spectacular views of the town from the top.
Highly recommended!!
A great place to visit to stretch your legs while passing by the city. There is a few fly of stairs that lead you to the top. There is a guided tour upon request and all is for free. Caution, very narrow fly of stairs just in case you are claustrophobic.
Top has an amazing view of th city.
Fantastic ancient castle within easy walking distance of town centre. Lovely gardens surrounding area where you can sit down and have a bite to eat or a chat to pass the time. Castle is over 4 floors with the final to the open air affording excellent views of Nenagh and surrounding countryside. Free entry. Information signs and leaflets very beneficial. Parking nearby.
You can’t beat free!!! If you’re anywhere near the area, even just as a quick stop on your way to somewhere else, this is a neat place to stop. Plus, I had it all to myself!
I'd love to come another time to climb up there when it's open. It's huge, clean and historical.
4.6
(597)
4.5
(136)
O'Rahilly, O'Rahilly St, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary, Ireland
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16Marie D — Google reviewD H — Google reviewIRELAND E — Google reviewIan F — Google reviewNoreen M — Google reviewMossie — Google reviewRobert J — Google review•
Glen of Aherlow
Mentioned on
Ravine
Nature & Parks
Valleys
Glen of Aherlow is a picturesque valley along the River Aherlow, offering nature trails and featuring a landmark statue of Christ the King. It's known for its eight looped walks catering to various fitness levels, with five starting at Christ the King Trail Head and three from Lisvarrinane Village Trail Head. The trails lead through forest tracks, moorland, corries lakes, and mountainsides.
Truly stunning views.
Paul K — Google review
On the doorstep, a go to place to lose one's self!
Beautiful place to visit for a day trip. Not much in way of entertainment. Food at hotel was lovely
Beautiful glen and great view of Galtees.
Only worth going to the "Glen of Aherlow viewpoint" and no signage on the road getting there either
Worth a visit, enjoyed it if you like like long walks it's the place to be.
My wife's mother was born here, but not much to see until you reach the viewing point.
Lovey counrty Woods to go walking and then the statue of chist the King on mountain to see and nice views. Also Hotel to have lunch in too
4.7
(38)
4.5
(181)
Rossbog, Co. Tipperary, Ireland, USA
17Fearghal M — Google reviewKaz S — Google reviewSinead D — Google reviewCatherine H — Google reviewTanja P — Google reviewDee G — Google reviewTerence C — Google review•
Turoe Pet Farm
Mentioned on
Fun & Games
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Game & Entertainment Centers
Turoe Pet Farm, located near Loughrea just off the M6 Dublin-Galway motorway, offers a variety of activities for families and friends. Visitors can explore the bird aviary, pet corner with cuddly rabbits, and a play area with a sand pit. The farm features walking trails where guests can interact with pigs, ponies, cows, donkeys, goats, and sheep.
Excellent place to keep the kids entertained.
The indoor part is suitable for all weather.
Cafe and decent toilet facilities. Outdoor picnic benches. Great for kids parties. As an adult I'd probably eat before I go next time as the food isn't great quality.
Alan K — Google review
Brilliant, hands down a class act! 3 playgrounds including a huge indoor inflatable city. Animals are kept in cages but are still easy to feed!
They really nice playground area, the bounce slides is the best for kids i really recommend this place for kids and parents,
The price what you pay have 3hr off freedom
The best petting farm we’ve been to! Huge space. Our two young kids could happily spend hours there, with so much to entertain them. They loved being able to feed the animals, the sand pit was a big hit, our toddler even loved wandering about the football pitch. The highlight was the inflatable city area though. As parents, we found the organization of the play areas really good and the staff did an excellent job. One small comment would be that some older children were in the toddler area and were a bit rough for the smaller kids. But that’s just one of those things that happens in every play centre.
Keep up the good work!
Excellent place to bring kids. Massive indoor bouncy castle. We went on a good day. (Not raining) had a time limit on the indoor area (wristbands on the kids) but could easily spend time outside, no limit there. Spent a good four hours here. Definitely go back.
Super nice with children any age and no matter If it s quick stop or you are planning for a longer stay. We ll definetly be back!
Fantastic first visit to Turroe on a cold showery day in Nov! 5 children aged 1-5 in our group and they all had a ball, adults included! Well organised clean set up, friendly staff, only indoor areas limited to 3hrs which is LOADS for them and then back out to say goodbye to the animals and another run around the playground. Food choice somewhat limited, nice coffee and they kindly let you bring snacks etc and eat in the spacious indoor seating area. Clean indoor play areas, staff on duty, age appropriate spaces and spacious clean toilets. Great value for money. Can’t recommend more for a day out - whatever the weather. Planning our next visit already.
We recently visited Turoe Pet Farm in Loughrea and had an amazing time! This is a perfect spot for families with young kids—there’s so much to see and do. The petting zoo was a big hit, with friendly goats, sheep, rabbits, and even alpacas. Our little ones loved feeding the animals and getting up close with them.
The playground area is fantastic, with plenty of space for kids to run around, and the indoor play barn is great if the weather isn’t cooperating.
The staff were lovely—really welcoming and helpful. The facilities were clean, and there’s a nice café with good coffee and snacks .
Overall, Turoe Pet Farm is a wonderful place for a family day out. Highly recommend for anyone with young children—we’ll definitely be back!
4.7
(1923)
4.5
(331)
Turoe House, Turoe, Loughrea, Co. Galway, H62 A432, Ireland
18Pauline E — Google reviewNaomi S — Google reviewKatie L — Google reviewDeclan R — Google reviewChristopher E — Google reviewBob K — Google reviewMary O — Google review•
McKernan Woollen Mills
Weaving mill
Shopping
Fashion accessories store
Outlet mall
Textile mill
Factory Outlets
Stumbled upon this place and it made for a lovely afternoon! Got to see the looms and knitting machines in action. I adored it! The staff went above and beyond to make sure we had a nice visit and help me choose a lovely scarf. Vielen Dank!!! Es war so schön!
Sarah H — Google review
You can see the looms and knitting machines working. Also the wool being prepared for the looms and the scarves being finished by hand. A beautiful selection of scarves and fingerless gloves on sale. Well worth a visit.
I've been trying to come her for years to see their lovely scarves in person, and I was not disappointed.
Beautiful shop with a huge variety of scarves in every color and pattern. It was difficult to choose just one!
The owners know their craft well and we were delighted to get an impromptu tour.
Highly recommend a visit.
During an unplanned and impromptu visit, I had the most unique tour through the process of weaving some very beautiful scarves. I was thrilled to see behind the scenes and can appreciate the craftsmanship even better. A special surprise at the end of our tour made a memory for that I will treasure. Can't wait to wear some of my beautiful new scarves!
Had a wonderful time there, everyone was so nice and friendly. They even gave us a free tour of the place! It was so interesting to watch Eugene work on the machines and explain the history of the business. Told my family about it and my sister and mother can't wait to visit.
Of course, their products are beautifully made and delicate while clearly being able to stand the test of time.
So delighted I went there!
This handweaving outlet shop is great. Friendly staff and a big choice of scarves, woollen, silk, silk and wool with vibrant colours. A good place to buy presents.
We saw this in Google as a nearby attraction and decide to go. It was a unique and original tour, and the owners really took quite a bit of time out of their day to show us around. They care and thought that goes into making their products is superb. And the scarves are terrific! Buy one even if it not from a tour!
Absolutely Fabulous Wollen Mills. All the items are top quality. Staff very friendly and helpful. We were given a guided tour of the weaving workshop and the knitting workshop. We will be back
5.0
(31)
5.0
(43)
On the Green, Tomgraney, Tuamgraney, Co. Clare, Ireland
19Flynn T — Google reviewAnthony O — Google reviewVin C — Google reviewTheresa J — Google reviewWilliam M — Google reviewCathy R — Google reviewLewis G — Google review•
Saint Mary's Cathedral
Mentioned on
Cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
St Mary's Cathedral, located in Limerick, is an iconic 12th-century church with a rich history. It is the oldest building in the city and has been in continuous use since its founding in 1168. The cathedral features large stained-glass windows and a small burial ground. With its fascinating architecture and historical significance, it offers visitors a journey through time from the early Middle Ages to the present day.
St. Mary's Cathedral is a beautiful and peaceful spot to visit. It dates back to 1100's, and you can really feel the history as you walk around. The stained glass windows and stonework are amazing, and the surrounding graveyard is a nice bonus. Definitely worth a visit if you're into history or appreciate an old cathedral.
Henry G — Google review
This church is conveniently close to the city centre and it’s actually the best preserved Irish church built on a Continental scale before the Norman invasion of 1169.
It’s a complex building, incorporating developments from the mid-twelfth century to the present. It is a really interesting sightseeing spot and definitely impressive and worth a visit!
Decent cathedral with a lot of history. You have to pay to tour the place which in itself is maybe acceptable although not entirely justifiable, however, despite paying some parts as indicated on the booklet they give were closed and as such it would be reasonable to lower the fee. Also, we wanted to light some candles, but the lighter was not working and no matches were provided.
A nice and well maintained cathedral. Entrance a bit steep as all they done here is put information exhibits on the sides of the cathedral as you walk around it to tell you about it's history. Overall still enjoyed it allow 20 minutes.
We were not able to tour the cathedral when we went, but the outside property was delightful, filled with old headstones. The architecture was breathtaking. Hard to imagine 1168 AD - so cool. It's in the city of Limerick and we were there for the day. I'd love to go back and see the inside, it has to be gorgeous.
The Graveyard: The churchyard surrounding St. Mary's Cathedral is an ancient burial ground, with the oldest parts dating back to the 12th century, though earliest burial records are from 1726. It remains an active graveyard to this day. As you explore, you'll find a variety of graves and tombs, some of which belong to notable historical figures. These include the Barrington and Sexton vaults, the Protestant Orphan Grave, and the grave of Prince Milo Petrović-Njegoš of Montenegro. The graveyard offers a tangible connection to centuries of Limerick's past and its inhabitants.
Second time at this venue and I was not disappointed. I was enchanted by the lights, venue and of course the music. Wonderful evening. Do yourself a favour, buy the tickets and try it!!!!
Beautiful building, the highlights were the wonderful stained glass, both new and old! 5 euro for entry which was a good price.
4.6
(1238)
4.3
(558)
Bridge St, Englishtown, Limerick, V94 E068, Ireland
20William L — Google reviewSusan F — Google reviewSkaiste P — Google reviewDavid C — Google reviewAdam F — Google reviewSaurabh S — Google reviewIarla O — Google review•
The Hunt Museum
Mentioned on
Art museum
Museums
The Hunt Museum, located in the medieval quarter of Limerick City, is housed in a former custom house and boasts a collection of over 2000 ancient and modern ethnographic treasures. The museum sits amidst the rich heritage of Limerick, with landmarks like King John's Castle and St. Mary's Cathedral nearby. Visitors can also explore the vibrant city life, from buzzing nightlife to thriving arts scene and year-round festivals.
Very cool museum. They had plenty to see and the ancient Egyptian pieces were very interesting.
Alen M — Google review
We loved the small, eclectic collection of the Hunt Museum, from the rather surprising silver death mask of James Joyce to the Egyptian statue of the god Thoth as a baboon and the late medieval Italian majolica devotional panel. The brightly painted horse sculptures outside the museum entrance, painted by local youth artists, are an especially wonderful feature of this cozy little museum.
An absolute must visit. What a gem in the city. You are taken on an extraordinary journey through history. The scan codes on the exhibits are a great idea, and the pieces in the drawers are a huge hit with my eleven year who has adhd. It kept us engaged from start to finish.
A nice place to visit, has art exhibitions to see, and a nice collection of artefacts. It's free for students who are in LSAD, and also free for kids!
Very eclectic collection with everything from prehistoric tools to modern art and decoration. Explanations are good and the staff are very friendly and ready to help.
Very nice museum, good curating of a wide range of items. Lots of pottery, spears, Christianity relics. Some nice artwork, both old and recent, and a nice little gift shop. The receptionist was lovely to deal with, and really helped with explaining the routes and specific exhibits.
The best thing about the museum was it was so quiet. You can easily cover everything in one hour.
We had an absolutely fantastic experience at the Hunt Museum last Saturday between 3–4pm, thanks to our wonderful tour guide. He was incredibly knowledgeable, engaging and clearly passionate about the history of Limerick and the collection in the museum.
He gave us a fascinating overview of the origins and evolution of the city, weaving together historical facts with memorable storytelling. His explanations of the paintings and the stories behind them added so much depth and context, things we never would have noticed or understood on our own. Every question we asked was answered with insight and enthusiasm.
The tour was the highlight of our visit to Limerick and we left feeling enriched, inspired and with a much deeper appreciation for both the museum and the city itself!
4.4
(1241)
4.4
(715)
Hunt Museum, Rutland St, Prior's-Land, Limerick, V94 EV8A, Ireland
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21Brenda M — Google reviewEver1881 — Google reviewLewis G — Google reviewYuki — Google reviewBrettroberts987 — Google reviewDon L — Google reviewJane C — Google review
King John's Castle
Mentioned on
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
King John's Castle is a beautifully restored medieval fortress located in Limerick, Ireland. Situated on Kings Island and overlooking the River Shannon, this 13th-century castle offers visitors a glimpse into its rich history through interactive exhibits and period costumes at the visitor center. The castle, originally ordered by King John in 1200, stands as one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Europe.
This was a very unique and informative tour. You start by going through a museum that explains the history of the area and how the castle came to be. It was extremely informative. After the museum portion you actually go under the castle walls to see more about the history. The castle is well preserved and has a lot of areas to explore. Very beautiful area and well worth the entry fee. There is a free parking area for those visiting the castle.
Jesse K — Google review
Very interesting castle; it is a well-designed museum with interactive experiences for children and curious adults. The first part is a historic path with many details, followed by a visit to the castle itself with beautiful views and some games. It’s worth setting aside 1–2 hours to enjoy the visit calmly
You are able to climb up all the towers they do have a few rooms with artifacts to see and very nice walkthrough museum. You can also get underneath and look at all the original structures. Obviously the castle has seen its fair share of seiges over the years So not necessarily everything has survived or is in great shape but they continue to do excavations and renovations.
Very interesting & informative place to visit, a large multimedia exhibition followed by a wander around the castle. Tickets were 15 euro which I felt for reasonable for how much there was there, and also had some medieval style games to try (needless to say we were terrible at the horseshoe throw). Lovely views from the tower over the river Shannon.
King John’s Castle is one of the main attractions in Limerick. I enjoyed all the fun facts throughout the castle, and the self tour didn’t take too long, making it easy to fit into a day’s itinerary. If you’re visiting during the busy season, I’d recommend purchasing tickets online. There are interactive activities to keep kids entertained, plus beautiful views from the castle. The gift shop offers a wide variety of souvenirs, and conveniently, there’s a cozy coffee shop connected to it.
I really enjoyed this castle. The layout and the stories relayed in the first bit are done really well and are very interesting. The castle is in decent shape with some activities for kids. There is a parking lot for the castle just a few minutes walk away. Worth the stop
There’s lots to see in the museum part of the castle where history is told with photos and videos. This castle has a very large courtyard with sections showing a blacksmith shop and others. And you can pose with your head in a photograph with an executioner. There are spiral staircases leading to several rooms in the castle and you can climb to the top of two towers for fantastic views of the whole area. There is a large gift shop in the large glass building with a café. The entrance to the castle and displays is in the brick building, beside the glass building.
The exhibits are masterfully done and are very engaging. We enjoyed learning about the lives of Irish people in the 13-15th centuries. We also had fun with the crafts and activities laid out in the castle courtyard. The views from the top of the battlements were spectacular.
22Christina F — Google reviewCathal S — Google reviewDavid T — Google reviewMichael M — Google reviewJody W — Google reviewLloyd M — Google reviewMonica B — Google review•
Thomond Park
Mentioned on
Stadium
Museums
Thomond Park Stadium is the 25,500-capacity home of the Munster Rugby Club and offers more than just sports events. The stadium features a captivating interactive museum that showcases the rich history and heritage of Munster Rugby, displaying an impressive array of memorabilia including items from historic victories. Visitors can enjoy interactive displays suitable for all ages and a specially commissioned film that delves into the club's tradition and unique bond with its supporters.
Great stadium to watch rugby. Good seats with mostly clear sight lines. Has some fairly affordable concessions within.
James H — Google review
Went to "The Scripts " concert ,and everything was very well managed from Food drinks and bathroom facilities,,everyone was so helpful 👌 and of course, the script and other bands were fantastic
Fantastic stadium. Even with a sell out crowd, there was no delay entering the stadium. Excellent Marshalls and signage to show you where to go.
Great place for a gig Great atmosphere great crowd wolf tones were brilliant
Wolfe Tones final concert in Thomond Park. Great venue for a concert. Thomond Park hosted concerts on the Friday night (Wolfe Tones) Saturday night (The Script) and Sunday night the final Wolfe Tones concert celebrating 61 years.
Great for a Gig
I was at the Wolfe Tones and The Script recently great atmosphere
Great venue which needs more concerts and events. This is a perfectly placed treasure that needs to be utilised
Wanted to give a Zero but couldn't absloute abysmal set up on top as they took perfume it's to help to keep fresh and a reminder it's a football stadium not a airport!!!! Edit* before you try respond with security only doing their job then they failed stopping people with drugs as the the bags in the bathrooms and the smell of weed was disgraceful
4.8
(3185)
4.6
(334)
Thomond Park Stadium, Cratloe Rd, Ballynanty Beg, Limerick, V94 XWK5, Ireland
23Marie L — Google reviewSree P — Google reviewAngela N — Google reviewKaren C — Google reviewAine K — Google reviewDee — Google reviewBridann O — Google review
Terra Nova Garden
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Garden
Nature & Parks
The Terra Nova Fairy Garden is a children's garden located just outside of Limerick city. It is adorned by tree ferns and features an array of whimsical art installations, like traditional fairy stone circles. The tranquil garden is a wonderful place to explore, whether you're looking for a place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life or want to learn more about Irish folklore.
What can I say about Terra Nova only it has to be the most magical garden ever for young kids there is not a space Deborah and Martin have not worked on to keep the magic flowing through out no matter where a child looks their imagination bursts into life with some other amazing little hidden fairy world they have just spotted the amount of work and pure dedication that has gone into this garden is just next to none had an amazing day with my six year old and memories he will remember forever if your child loves fairies.... or just exploring outdoors in general like mine dose ...this is the place to visit ❤️ and their gift shop omg .....that speaks for its self ...PS .....parents will love it too😉 thanks Terra Nova for sharing your fairy world much appreciated x ☘️♥️
AINE H — Google review
This is a hidden gem ... Beautiful serene gardens with fairy trail for children. Set on about 0.5 acres this garden has a magnificent array of plants for gardeners to admire. The fairy trail engages children throughout the garden. Admission fee includes self service tea/coffee and juice drinks for children. Lovely seating throughout to rest and admire the beautiful surroundings. Young children will love exploring this environment ... thoughtful touches like bubble wands hung here and there help children to feel included. We will be back.
This place is amazing. We loved this place. Adults and kids can equally enjoy this place. The flowers in this garden are so beautiful and it is planned in such a way that there are beautiful photo spots, refreshments and benches at regular intervals. This garden is filled with fairies, goblins and dwarves everywhere that would inspire a kid's mind. There are books for both young and old as well. The gift shop at the end is so beautiful that you wouldn't be able to resist. They have an online shop as well. In short do not miss the opportunity to visit this garden if you are anywhere near this place.
It's absolutely unbelievable that this garden is in rural Limerick once you enter and immerse yourself in the garden you feel so calm & relaxed . The garden is so peaceful it's good for the soul, there is a vast array of plants I especially love the bamboo & ferns. The Thai house is gorgeous with lovely piped music I really need one at home now, the fairies spin their magic everywhere, you can enjoy a coffee or tea with the added bonus of a biscuit and it's complimentary. Lastly the fairy gift shop is packed with wonderful gift idea's it's a real treasure trove. Terra Nova I'll definitely be back.
Visited this beautiful garden with my toddler and newborn during a visit to limerick and what a treat! The planting and flowers are beautiful, the fairy scenes scattered throughout were so cute and the story/experience was great. My 4 year old daughter loved it! Really friendly staff too.
Beautiful garden, full of fairies, gnomes and other magical creatures.. lots to see for young and old. Also have a lovely hobbit house. The owners and staff are very friendly too. Would definitely recommend for anyone who believes in magic.
Magical place for all children. Stories are based on goblins and fairies. When you arrive you first go through the garden walk where you can follow the story of Devlin. Along the way you will see fairies, goblins, little houses and doors. Kids can go into the goblins wooden hut and the teddy bears house. Theres a post office where you can post mail to fairies around the world, see how they work and send energy through globes. The tranquility garden is stunning and relaxing to sit down in for abit. At the end of the trail theres a hobbits house where you can have tea and biscuits. The shop has a huge variety of items from Harry Potter, game of thrones, Lego, dinosaurs and fairies. Wheelchair access is limited and parking is outside the house on the roadside. Overall it was an enjoyable experience, well worth the trip and you could easily spend 1-2 hours
Was a magical experience the when you arrive you are given a booklet which has a story in it you need to friend each chapter along the trail to continue the story. I lovely every minute from start to finish and the girls loved feeling like Dora the explorer finding each chapter and fairy.
24Kaitlyn H — Google reviewOlivia P — Google reviewAmy K — Google reviewOlivia D — Google reviewWilliam C — Google reviewKatherine G — Google reviewLindsay E — Google review•
Rathbaun Farm
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Farms
Rathbaun Farm, previously owned by the Burkes and now run by the Connolly family, is an 80-acre traditional Irish sheep farm. The farm showcases native Irish sheep breeds and offers a glimpse into centuries-old farming practices. Visitors can participate in activities like feeding lambs and baking scones while enjoying the hospitality of the 250-year-old cottage with its stone walls, thatched roof, and turf fire.
Can’t recommend this experience enough. I brought two friends visiting from the US and we had the loveliest afternoon. Evelyn, Fintan & all those working on the farm were so welcoming and kind. A really well organised, informative, and true Irish activity that I wouldn’t miss! Scones and tea/coffee were delightful. 10/10, will be recommending to everyone looking for a farm activity!
Eimear F — Google review
Cannot recommend enough!!! Everyone was so kind, the scones were delicious, and Fintan was very knowledgeable about all things sheep-related so it was wonderful to hear from him. If you’re in Co. Galway you should absolutely check out Rathbaun. You can book by filling out the form on their website and they’ll reach out to you quickly.
Absolutely one of the highlights of our trip to Galway! Evelyn and the rest of the staff are so lovely, they make you feel right at home. The homemade scones are a highlight in itself, they’re wonderful. Overall I would say it’s a unique experience that I would recommend anyone coming to Galway to try.
We had a very fun visit in early Aug 2025. Enjoyed the history, the beautiful thatched roof cottage, Bailey the sheep dog, seeing different breeds of sheep and making/eating scones. A lovely time - highly recommend!
A great way to experience farm life in Ireland! We started off by meeting Mary and Evelyn who welcomed us with open arms and a nice fire to sit by. It felt like we were greeted by family! We then made scones with Mary - everything was so organized, fun, and the directions were easy to follow. While we were waiting for the scones to bake, we visited the farm area where we learned about different types of sheep and watched a herding demonstration with Bailey the dog. We even got to bottle feed a few lambs - they were so sweet! Then we went back into the cottage to enjoy our delicious scones with jam, coffee, and tea. We had the best time!
Great old countryside farmhouse with a friendly staff that serves up tea and scones and then you meet the sheep and watch the sheep dog round them up from the field. You might even get to feed some lambs while listening to information about the changing times for the Irish farmers.
My family and I visited Rathbaun Farm a little over a month ago and had a wonderful experience. We arrived a little earlier than expected, and were greeted with warmth and kindness. We even got to tour earlier than our allotted time, so we ended up having a “private” tour. And of course, the scones were absolutely delicious!
We had such a lovely time! The staff were so friendly and welcoming and we learned so much about sheep farming. This is a must do when traveling to Ireland!
4.7
(328)
4.7
(244)
Rathbane, Ardrahan, Co. Galway, H91 CP89, Ireland
25Siobhan R — Google reviewMaurice B — Google reviewRoss D — Google reviewGerry W — Google reviewKosuke Y — Google reviewCarol M — Google reviewPawin K — Google review
Doneraile Wildlife Park
Mentioned on
Park
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Nestled in Cork, Doneraile Wildlife Park is a picturesque estate that boasts an impressive 18th-century landscaped park. The former residence of the St. Leger family, Doneraile Court, adds historical charm to the surroundings. Visitors can explore various trails suitable for all ages and abilities, with options ranging from short and easy to longer loops.
A fantastic place for spending time together with family or friends.
Plenty of space for walking, beautiful views, topped off with little deer ( Bambi 😊).
I would recommend to everyone.
Slawek G — Google review
We brought our two grandchildren (5+1), and all of us loved it. The deer, playground, tearoom, and walks for different staminas were excellent. 10/10 would recommend. Will return.
This has to be one of the best free family days out. It has everything. A very good kids park and very safe. Plenty of walks from 2k to 10k. Very picturesque and loads of places to have a picnic. The tea rooms in the main house is very good and run by Sarah at the Crossroads which is also worth a visit. Overall a great family day out.
What an absolutely beautiful park. We’d meant to visit so many times over the years and finally got there. Of the three trails available we chose the medium trail which is 3.5 kilometres long through beautifully maintained paths and tracks. Being Autumn the leaves on the trees were a wonderful pallet of colours. Winding paths, a babbling stream, birds singing and so many moments of peace and quiet. We had a wonderful walk through the grounds and saw dozens of deer.
As for the house itself, we didn’t take the tour this time but the place is immaculately well kept. The walled garden was closed unfortunately but a peek through the gates made me think someone had cut the grass with a scissors and a ruler. Beautiful. I hope the pictures do it some justice but I would highly recommend a visit to anyone. Ample parking, easy to navigate. There’s a lovely playground if you have young children and the entire park is dog friendly.
Fabulous place for a walk , dog on leads are welcome . Wonderful to get so close to both fallow and sika deer . And to be able to stop for a coffee in the courtyard, surrounded by carriages and stables from yesteryear’s really adds to the sentof history culture and heritage
It’s a very lovely wildlife park. Unfortunately, I couldn’t walk around much because of the rain, but I’d love to come back on a sunny day. There are toilets available in the park — as of 10 a.m., the gate to the toilets was open, and they were relatively clean.
What a wonderful day outside! My husband “found” this park while looking for things to do on one of our IR day trips, and this was such a great surprise. A beautiful autumn day spent walking, talking and enjoying the wildlife (deer and ducks). Wish we’d had more time!
Beautiful. For free. Cute Silka Deers. First large public park I have seen in Ireland. We took the long 5 km route.
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26Alex B — Google reviewDarren S — Google reviewAlexander S — Google reviewElk H — Google reviewAga D — Google reviewOshadha A — Google reviewSocial T — Google review•
Dunguaire Castle
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Dunguaire Castle is a beautifully restored 16th-century tower house located on the southeastern shore of Galway Bay near Kinvara. Once owned by the OHynes clan, it was restored in the 20th century and became a meeting place for literary figures like Yeats and Shaw. Now open to the public year-round, it offers local entertainment and banquets during summer.
Stopped here in a tour from Galway in April this year. Just a quick visit and we're able to walk around the perimeter. Very picturesque 16th century castle home. Worth a quick picture if your nearby.
Also really neat to see how low the tides get nearby.
Eric S — Google review
We stopped on a Monday afternoon just to take a peek. Parking is across the street and down the road a little bit, but an easy walk overall. Parking is also free which is nice. The castle itself was not open when we were there, I'm not sure if it ever is anymore? But we could see theres a gift shop inside through the windows. We took some photographs and walked around it and went on our way. There were many others there as well. All in all expect to spend 30 minutes here.
Stopped off on the way down the coast and wasn't dissapointed.
There was a free carpark a short walk from the castle with plenty of parking available.
The walk to the castle was actually good as it provided a few photo opportunities and survey the surrounding scenery.
While it was closed it was still a very interesting walk around and well worth the visit.
Key Facts:
• Built: circa 1520 by the Hynes clan on the site of an ancient fortification of the 7th-century King of Connacht, Guaire Aidne (hence the name Dún Guaire - "Guaire's Fortress").
• Type: 16th-century tower house, typical of Irish chieftains of the time.
• Height: approximately 23 meters (75 feet).
• Condition: Excellent condition, fully restored.
History in Brief:
• 16th century - Belonged to the Hynes clan.
• 17th century - Passed to the Martyn clan, wealthy merchants from Galway.
• 1920s - The castle was purchased by Lady Christabel Amphe, who carried out a complete restoration. • Since 1924, the castle has been a meeting place for figures of the Irish Literary Revival, including W.B. Yeats, J.M. Synge, Seán O'Casey, Lady Gregory, and others.
• Since 1954, it has been privately owned but is open to tourists.
• Since 1966, it has been managed by Shannon Heritage.
Only 4 stars because we couldn't get into the inside as it was locked, apparently it's a seasonal attraction. We were able to walk around the outside, completely around the castle and that was ok. The view of the castle is great,v from the road, from town and from the entrance walkway. There is a car park across the road. There are no public toilets outside as far as I can see and I walked all around it. The view of the bay is gorgeous.
Dunguaire Castle is one of the most iconic sights on Galway Bay. Built in the early 1500s by the Ó hEidhin (Hynes) clan, it later passed to the Martyn family — one of the “Tribes of Galway.” In the 20th century, it became a gathering place for Ireland’s Literary Revival, hosting the likes of Yeats, Lady Gregory, and George Bernard Shaw.
The car park is a few minutes’ walk away on the opposite side of the road, so be ready for a short stroll. At the moment, the castle itself is closed (major repair works needed, so no tours or banquets), but it’s still worth stopping to walk around and take in the views.
Great to see a Palestinian flag flying from the walls here — you’ll notice quite a few of them around Clare. It adds a contemporary layer to a place already steeped in history.
Dunguaire Castle is absolutely charming and steeped in history. Perched right by the water, the views are stunning, especially around sunset. The castle itself is small compared to others in Ireland, but it’s beautifully preserved and gives you a real sense of what life might have been like in a 16th-century tower house.
Beautiful little castle overlooking the Galway Bay inlet and nearby village. Was unfortunately closed on our visit but we were able to walk around the exterior. It was so picturesque that I proposed to my partner and she said 'YES'!!
4.3
(5121)
3.9
(690)
DUNGUAIRE CASTLE, Dungory West, Kinvarra, Co. Galway, Ireland
27Matilda O — Google reviewSilvia S — Google reviewCath R — Google reviewFrances D — Google reviewDaphne W — Google reviewMargaret R — Google reviewSilvia-Maria C — Google review•
The Donkey Sanctuary Ireland
Mentioned on
Animal rescue service
Outdoor Activities
The Donkey Sanctuary, situated near Mallow in County Cork, offers a delightful day out for families. Open during August and September on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, this sanctuary provides free admission to meet and interact with over 130 gentle donkeys. Visitors can also opt to 'adopt a donkey' for a year at a nominal cost. The sanctuary is dedicated to caring for neglected and abused donkeys from across Europe since its establishment in 1987.
This place is absolutely lovely! There are three different paths that take you around the Sanctuary, each offering views of the beautiful creatures (and they are up for a little pet) and stunning scenery. There's a small gift shop on the premises, as well as a picnic area. I will definitely return to visit my little adoptee! 🤗
Swea ( — Google review
such an amazing and beautiful place. plenty of lovely walks to do, as well as a giftshop with some smalls snacks available aswell. All the staff is so kind and you can feel the love they have for these animals.
Such a lovely place! The walk around the farm is beautiful, and the staff are incredibly kind and welcoming. The donkeys look so happy and well cared for — it’s clear they’re truly loved here.
Beautiful location and the staff was very friendly and informative. We appreciate the dog friendly policies. They do wonderful work here caring for these sweet donkeys, lots of TLC. We enjoyed our visit and happy to be able to support a worthy cause!
A lovely place to go for walks and trails laid out plus see and greet the curious donkies. Adopt one for €25 for a year. Free entry
How do people leave without a donkey??? This place is AMAZING, so many donkeys! Love the different walks you can do to see them all.
We were warmly welcomed by a knowledgeable volunteer who answered all of our questions.
Even got some love from one of the donkeys. Please make sure and leave a donation for this wonderful place as it is free to get in.
Very cool place for donkeys! Highly recommended if you love donkeys and have an hour to kill. ! And IT'S FREE!!!!!!
The Donkey Sanctuary is such an amazing place to visit. The donkeys are all so friendly and cute! The staff are so nice. 😊 Its very dog friendly and theres a couple of different trails and walks you can do. Dobby really enjoyed his visit.
4.8
(1248)
5.0
(249)
Knockardbane, Liscarroll, Co. Cork, P51 PH29, Ireland
28Claire T — Google reviewRussell B — Google reviewC R — Google reviewJeff L — Google reviewJ T — Google reviewSarah O — Google reviewSpelling C — Google review•
Ennis Friary
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Ennis Friary, founded by Donnchadh Cairbreach O'Brien in the 13th century, evolved into a significant religious center and educational institution over the next four centuries. Despite its closure after King Henry VIII's Dissolution of the Monasteries in 1540, it continued to operate until around 1690. The site features medieval carvings, including an image of St. Francis with stigmata in the nave.
A definite must visit. Very polite girl welcomed us in and gave us a nice overview of the Friary and then let us go along on our own. It took us about 40 minutes to go through. Alot of interesting history here. Worth the visit if you come to Ennis. I believe we paid 5 euro to enter.
Janet S — Google review
Staff very welcoming and gave valuable introductions. Lots of explanations and exhibits going back many centuries. Please visit if in Ennis
Incredible 13th century Friary. Beautiful structure and surprisingly well preserved. Restoration work is also very impressive.
Beautiful Franciscan friary in the heart of Ennis. Take the guided tour. The history of the place is amazing. Almost 1000 years in existence and much of it still standing.
Absolutely amazing Frairy. We went at the end of their day and had the place to ourselves. So quiet, it let us absorb it all. Truly amazing.
A small museum of an old abbey in the city centre of Ennis. I really like how they combine the ruins with a lot of open glass walls. The entry is 5 Euro for an adult and 3 Euro for a child/student. You can spend about 20-30 minutes here.
The staff were really helpful and informative. Well preserved place.
Definitely worth a visit. A guide gives you a brief historical overview then you are free to wander around the places. It's very well maintained and there are lots of cool carved details in the walls and in the graveyard. The main area is covered, so this is a perfect rainy day activity.
4.5
(623)
4.4
(358)
Lower Abbey St, Clonroad Beg, Ennis, Co. Clare, Ireland
29Anna M — Google reviewDeist77 — Google reviewEver1881 — Google reviewNate H — Google reviewWojciech B — Google reviewTravis L — Google reviewElaine C — Google review•
Burren National Park
Mentioned on
National park
Nature & Parks
Burren National Park, located in northwest County Clare near the Wild Atlantic Way, is a geological and ecological wonder that inspired JRR Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings. This lunar-like landscape features rock formations, cliffs, and seven walking trails through woodland inhabited by otters, mink, and lizards. Despite its rocky terrain, the park boasts a diverse range of colorful flowers including Arctic-alpine plants thriving alongside Mediterranean flora.
Just splendid! This park is another treasure in Ireland. Located close to Cliffs of Moher. Great for hiking, and seeing all the beauty of nature. Tip, dress in layers, good sturdy shoes. Terrain is very beautiful, but rocky. Be careful.
Shelly Y — Google review
The scenery was stunningly beautiful and uniquely Irish. We took a 4 mile hike on the red trail but didn’t finish the complete trail. We turned back after 2 miles due to the rough, rocky terrain when it went up the mountain. The multiple trails were well-marked.
Great hiking experience. Lots of terrain that is unique to Clare County. I took a 3.5 hour hike that had me on a gravel road, then forest, then rock formations, through a cattle farm, past a house that offers tea to hikers, past a lake, and looped back to my vehicle. Absolutely beautiful
Stunning in it's own right. Truly unforgiving landscape. Worth a climb to the peak if wearing good shoes. Go slow and enjoy the view.
Honestly one of my favourite spots in all of the 'Emerald Isle', despite it being one of the least green! It's stark, barren, almost otherworldly, and breathtakingly spectacular. Don't miss it if you have a chance, and take time to linger here, explore the coast, the hills, the strange layers and textures, really experience it. Get out of your car and walk around!
Amazing place. Great trails for walks. I hope to get back here some day. My Irish favourite.
We did the blue trail hike. Pro tip is that you can park down the road about 0.6 miles if you want to shorten the hike a bit. The only thing you’re skipping is the walk down that road. In total that will shorten the hike 1.2 miles (Approx 2 KM). The views are unlike anything else in Ireland. You’ll walk along a lake, through a field filled with goats, and up the side of the rocky burren mountain/hill. The hike isn’t overly strenuous but there are 3-4 little areas where you’ll scramble up around a 10 foot steep incline/decline. I’d recommend proper hiking shoes as some of the rocks you’ll step on are rather pointed and could hurt your feet if you’re wearing joggers/skate shoes. If you have the time, it’s a nice little hike and not too far from cliffs of Moher if you need to get away from the rampant swarms of tourists there.
Magnificent scenery. A beautiful place to visit and walk.
We did the blue loop walk. It's just short of 8k, up and round Mullaghmore. All routes are very well marked, if you are not sure where to go next just look around more, markers are there!
It was a warm cloudy, breezy day. Be warned, it can be very windy up there even though it's not that high. The blue loop ascent is not tough. However walking on the limestone pavement is tricky enough so don't expect a fast pace up or down. If you have them, wear ankle high walking boots. It is doable in normal runners/walking shoes though. Dry enough in summer.
There are no toilets or facilities at the cross roads parking. We stopped in Corofin on way and stocked up with snacks in Centra. It's a big shop and has parking.
Fab views from the top of Mullaghmore. Well worth the climb!
4.7
(1796)
4.5
(683)
2 Church Street, Corofin, Co. Clare, V95 T9V6, Ireland
30Jim D — Google reviewBarb K — Google reviewTracy H — Google reviewAdam L — Google reviewAnnette S — Google reviewMark G — Google reviewLisa L — Google review•
Heart of Burren Walks
Mentioned on
Tours
Walking Tours
Cultural Tours
Heart of Burren Walks offers an immersive and informative tour experience in County Clare, Ireland. Led by knowledgeable guides like Mary O'Dea and Tony, the tours provide a deep understanding of Irish life, geology, plants, ancient history, ecology, and poetry. The walks are described as engaging, humorous, and friendly while offering a unique perspective on the Burren's landscape.
Beautiful walk but be careful walking over some of those wet stones. They can be very slippery. I took a mild spill over one of them. But they are overall breathtaking and lead to the beautiful and mysterious ruin Poulnaborne
A Y — Google review
Tony! As a tour guide, what do I say about the Dublin lad living the dream in the heart of the Burren ... he is my favourite guide in the land. His humanity, expertise, storytelling is exceptional. I'll stop now 'cos like a good Irish lad he can't take compliments either ... ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Book him for sure, be quick he sells out fast.
April 2, 2024 We are an Australian couple with links to Ireland. My family came to Geelong in 1852 from Kilfenora County Clare and we have always been interested in our Irish connections. We did a tour of the Burrren with Mary O’Dea and I would recommend her tour. Mary is a font of knowledge and her informed and interesting commentary about everything from Irish life, geology, plants and ancient history kept us transfixed throughout the tour. The tour was wonderful and a ‘must do’ when visiting County Clare.
Best experience in Ireland
If you want to penetrate the mystery and magic of the Burren-- go on Tony Kirby's walk.
Geology, botany, agriculture, poetry, religion--Tony's tour weaves together many threads to bring the Burren into focus.
Don't miss it!
Tony unlocked Ireland for me. In between spurts of actual walking, we talked about glaciation, immigration, the Irish diaspora, Oscar Wilde, the EU, neolithic pastoral practices, geopolitics, deforestation, and whisky. If you ever have the opportunity, I recommend a walk on the Burren with Tony.
Though the day was not a sunny one, the experience was tremendous! I'd highly suggest taking a break from the regular tourist traps around Ireland, walk with Tony for a guided, authentic view of the Burren, its nature, and history.
This short hike was packed with sights, facts, and fascination! So many encounters with a landscape are horizontal affairs, and the appreciation and engagement goes left to right, forward and backward.
Tony's awareness and insights, delivered with humor and a sense of custody, make one sense an appreciation of the vertical. I grew conscious of the Burren as a deep history below my feet that informed the flora and fauna on its surface and conducted a relationship to the open sky above. Highly recommended!
It is clear that Tony is knowledgable about The Burren. He provided us with information about the geology, fauna, and history of this amazing place. He knew the area and the people. But perhaps more importantly, it was evident that he was passionate and dedicated to the park. He was excited to be there and show it to us. Tony's insight about the park was unique and will probably be one of the things I remember most about my first trip to Ireland. If you are interested in learning I would really suggest this tour. I would certainly take one again!
4.8
(82)
5.0
(552)
Ballyconry, Carran, Co. Clare, V95 CY89, Ireland
Planning a trip to Ennis?
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