King John's Castle

King John's Castle
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About

A formidable 13th-century Norman fortress on the banks of the River Shannon, where 800 years of sieges, rebellion and medieval life come alive through cutting-edge interactive exhibits, courtyard games, and panoramic tower-top views over Limerick city.

Things to Do

Interactive Exhibition

Explore 800 years of history through touchscreens, 3D models, computer-generated animations, and discovery drawers. The state-of-the-art visitor centre brings the castle's turbulent story to life — from Viking settlement to Norman stronghold and the great sieges of the 17th century.

Interactive Exhibition

Climb the Castle Towers

Ascend the ancient stone towers for sweeping views over the River Shannon, Thomond Park, and the medieval streets of Limerick. These lookout points once served as defensive strongholds during centuries of siege — today they offer some of the best photo spots in the city.

Climb the Castle Towers

Medieval Courtyard Games

Try your hand at tug-of-war, medieval quoits (ring toss), horseshoe throwing, and giant noughts and crosses in the castle courtyard. These activities are included with your ticket and are suitable for all ages — castle characters are on hand to teach you the ropes.

Medieval Courtyard Games

The Courtyard & Siege Story

Walk the remains of the Great Hall (built c.1280), explore siege shelters, and visit the chapel sanctuary. See a medieval campaign tent, a blacksmith's forge, and scenes from 17th-century sieges that recreate the atmosphere of the fortress at war.

The Courtyard & Siege Story

The Siege Café

Refuel at this atmospheric café overlooking the castle courtyard and towers. Serves barista-style coffee, light lunches, pastries and snacks. You don't need a ticket to visit — walk-ins are welcome.

The Siege Café

Gift Shop

Browse a curated range of souvenirs, locally crafted gifts, medieval-inspired keepsakes, children's toys, and Irish-made products — a fitting end to your castle visit.

Plan Your Visit

  • Hours: Open 7 days a week, year-round. Summer (1 Apr–30 Sep): 9:30am–6pm, last entry 5pm. Winter (1 Oct–31 Mar): 9:30am–5pm, last entry 4pm. Closed 24–27 December and 1 January. Allow about 1.5 hours for a full visit.
  • Admission: Advance online booking recommended. Ticket prices are only displayed via the official PatronBase booking system — check kingjohnscastle.ie for current rates. Children under 3 go free. Family tickets offer savings for groups of two adults plus children.
  • Parking: Complimentary visitor car park directly across the road on Castle Street, King's Island (search 'King Johns Castle car park' on Google Maps). Coach parking also available. No overnight parking. Parking is included with your admission ticket.
  • Food: The Siege Café on site serves barista coffee, light lunches, pastries and snacks with views over the courtyard. No ticket needed to access the café. Numerous additional restaurants and pubs are a short walk away in Limerick city centre.

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