Castles and Historic Sites in Co. Limerick
4 places
1.Lough Gur Lakeshore Park & Visitor Centre
a 45-metre stone circle older than the pyramids
A tranquil lakeshore in County Limerick layered with over 6,000 years of human history — home to Ireland's largest stone circle, Neolithic dwellings, medieval ruins, and folklore that still echoes through the valley.
- Highlights
- Ireland's largest stone circle — Grange Stone Circle, 45m across, 113 standing stones
- 6,000+ years of continuous settlement, one of Ireland's richest archaeological landscapes
- Horseshoe-shaped natural lake with peaceful lakeshore walks and woodland
- Facilities
- Wheelchair access
2.Glin Castle
Open to the public only one day a year
A gleaming Georgian-Gothic castle on the Shannon estuary, home to the Knights of Glin for over 700 years. Now an exclusive-hire country house, it opens to the public just once a year — but its magical gardens and heritage trails reward those who plan ahead.
- Highlights
- Neo-classical plaster ceiling and flying staircase
- Library with concealed secret door and snooker table
- 15-acre gardens with Gulf Stream exotics
- Facilities
- Wheelchair access
3.Adare Village
Set to host the 2027 Ryder Cup
Ireland's prettiest village — a 13th-century gem of thatched cottages, medieval abbeys, and award-winning dining in the heart of County Limerick, set to host the 2027 Ryder Cup.
- Highlights
- Free historical exhibition at the Heritage Centre
- 13th-century Desmond Castle tours (Jun–Sep)
- Ireland's most famous thatched cottages
- Facilities
- Wheelchair access
4.King John's Castle
Europe's best-preserved Norman fortress
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.
- Highlights
- One of Europe's best-preserved Norman castles, built 1200–1210 on the orders of King John
- State-of-the-art interactive visitor centre (€5.7m redevelopment completed in 2013)
- Panoramic rooftop views over the River Shannon and Limerick city
- Facilities
- Wheelchair access