THE BEST OF IRELAND Series

LimerickStanding on the Shoulders of Giants! COMPLIMENTARY COPY COMPLIMENTARY

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A Must See Destination for 2015  Limerick Guide

Lotta stories in this town. This town. This old, bold, cold town. This big town. This pig town. “Every house a story…This gets up under your skin town…Fill you with wonder town…This quare, rare, my ho-o-ome is there town. Full of life town. Extract from Pigtown by local playwright, Mike Finn.

Editor: Rachael Finucane Contributing writers: Rachael Finucane, Bríana Walsh and Cian Meade. Photography: Lorcan O’Connell, Dave Gaynor, Limerick City of Culture, Limerick Marketing Company, Munster Images, Tarmo Tulit, Rachael Finucane and others (see individual photos for details).

2 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Contents

THE BEST OF IRELAND Series

Contents

4. Introducing Limerick 29. Festivals & Events 93. Further Afield

6. Farewell National 33. Get Active in Limerick 96. Accommodation City of Culture 2014 46. Family Fun 98. Useful Information/ 8. History & Heritage Services 57. Shopping Heaven 17. Arts & Culture 100. Maps 67. Food & Drink

A Tourism and Marketing Initiative from Southern Marketing Design Media € For enquiries about inclusion in updated editions of this guide, please contact 061 310286 / [email protected] RRP: 3.00

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publishers. © Southern Marketing Design Media 2015. Every effort has been made in the production of this magazine to ensure accuracy at the time of publication. The editors cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any alterations made after publication. Cover image: © Fusionshooters

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The Best Of Ireland Series | 3 Limerick Guide Welcome to Limerick Limerick: Past Master... et on the mighty River Ireland, later English King John I, in last siege a bitter battle between the Shannon, Limerick tells a 1197 - a full decade before London! forces of William of Orange and James compelling story from Viking King John ordered a castle to be built II, which ended with the signing of the settlement to cosmopolitan and that was finished by around 1210. Treaty of Limerick in 1691. The historic city... By this time, the city was divided into an treaty granted Catholic rights. Limerick ‘Irishtown’ and an ‘Englishtown’ around flourished as a port and trading centre. SIt is thought that Luimneach (the Irish which strong walls were built. Those name for Limerick) initially referred ruins still exist. The Georgian era is responsible for some to the general area along the banks of of Limerick’s finest buildings, many still the Shannon Estuary, then known as standing today, and the city had several ‘Loch Luimnigh’. The earliest provable Limerick tells a booming industries such as lace, flour settlement in Limerick dates back to 812  milling, clothing and bacon (one of AD but most likely there were people compelling story Limerick’s nicknames is ‘Pigtown’). living here for centuries before that. from Viking Limerick played a big part in the War The Vikings sailed up the Shannon and “ of Independence with several notable took charge of the land, settling on an settlement to incidents - especially those in the latter island - later known as ‘King’s Island’. months of the war before a truce was The Vikings and the Irish fought over cosmopolitan called. the site and it was eventually taken over city by Brian Ború’s forces in the late 10th In 1919, the Limerick Trades and Labour century. Limerick’s motto is a quote from Virgil’s Council organised a general strike which Aeneid and translates as “an ancient became known as the ‘Limerick Soviet’. In the 1170s, the Normans ousted the city well versed in the arts of war”. A radical challenge to society - and to Irish. Limerick was granted its first The city was under siege at least three British rule - the Soviet even went so far charter and mayor by the then Lord of times in the 17th century alone - the as printing its own money!

Limerick is one of the oldest cities in Ireland with a fascinating history involving everything “ from sieges to soviets

4 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Welcome to Limerick

Great Presence Highlights for the local economy were Local artists, media figures and of events and attracting thousands of the founding of the nearby Shannon businesspeople have broken new visitors. Airport and the growth of the ground in various disciplines. Some of manufacturing sector in the city— these natives have brought Limerick to Limerick today has a reputation as a both of which still have a strong prominence on an international stage like modern city with the friendly feel of presence. Limerick still has many acclaimed actor, Richard Harris; BBC a town. It now has a growing multi- small independent businesses too presenter, Terry Wogan; businessman cultural population and a youthful feel and a reputation for innovation and and philanthropist, JP McManus and thanks to a large student population. The entrepreneurship. technology entrepreneurs, John and city and its people still have the energy Patrick Collison. of those that founded it hundreds of Important heritage sites like King years ago. John’s Castle have been developed. A reputation for There have been massive changes to  Limerick is known by natives and the industrial landscape and Limerick’s innovation and visitors alike as destination for culture, outward appearance. Several main heritage, sports, shopping and leisure. city thoroughfares have been made “ entrepreneurship Like the resilient River Shannon, over in recent years and the newest Limerick has not stood still but is addition is a riverside boardwalk. The Limerick is renowned as a sporting constantly moving and changing. revamp of older buildings as well as county. The success of the Munster This is a destination just waiting to be the construction of new structures like Rugby team internationally and discovered. the iconic Riverpoint and Thomond Limerick’s hosting of the Special Park Stadium has added new vibrancy. Olympic Ireland Games in 2010 and Schemes to regenerate residential and 2014 are two highlights in this sphere. commercial areas are also currently in Limerick was Ireland’s National City of motion. Culture in 2014, hosting a huge number

The Best Of Ireland Series | 5 Limerick Guide Cultural Explosion

at the Georgian House in Pery Square, was the debut performance of French City of Culture: worked on the huge project throughout company, Royal De Luxe, in Ireland. the year. Farewells and New From circuses to operas, Riverdance Beginnings Along with 109 ‘Made in Limerick’ to equine art, City of Culture was projects and many other iconic events, extremely eventful and by all accounts, imerick was awarded a historic record crowds of over 230,000 flocked successful. designation as Ireland’s first to Limerick to see a 25 foot tall granny National City of Culture for 2014 make an epic, three day journey through Paul Foley, Senior Executive Officer for and as a result hundreds of diverse the city streets. The Giant’s Journey Limerick National City of Culture 2014, artistic, sporting and cultural events took Lplace in the city and county.

There was a turbulent start to the year when three key staff members—artistic director, Karl Wallace and programmers, Jo Mangan and Maeve McGrath— resigned in early January 2014. CEO, Patricia Ryan, subsequently resigned.

After a dramatic first chapter, Mike Fitzpatrick—Head of Limerick School of Art & Design—was appointed as interim director and eventually, took the helm for the remainder of the year. This stability allowed the project to truly take flight. The City of Culture team, based

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© Munster Images

© Munster Images

said that “the year has gone really well. gives me a huge lift when I see the work It needed to go well. Everyone wanted it of the local, Irish and international artists to go well”. on the streets.”

“The creativity has been fantastic but The highlights for Paul include “Fuerza also the bravery of people putting Bruta, Draw Out Street Art, the six themselves out there and putting their Limerick singers who sang at the art out there, whether it’s a performance, University Concert Hall with West End visual art, music, dance or anything performer, Jason Donovan, in Limerick’s else. It has to be looked upon by a Dream Will Do, The Giant’s Journey or fairly judgemental public and it takes ‘Granny’ as people refer to it, the NoFit incredible courage. From my experience State circus with Bianco…there were there has been a confluence of creativity so many highlights. Everyone has their and bravery in the Limerick community favourites”. in how we have embraced City of Culture,” he said. Although the designation of Limerick National City of Culture will end along “The bravery is embodied by things with 2014, Paul says the consensus is like the street art, which involved big that “it will definitely leave a legacy”. thinking and vision from the people behind it. It wasn’t easily delivered on; “A lot of plans are already being a lot of work went on behind the scenes. formulated for 2015 and beyond. Now It is a dynamic embraced by lots of that Limerick has got a taste of what it’s European cities but we were nervous like to take a leading role in the cultural about how to handle it but it has worked sector, there is certainly a hunger to do really well for Limerick and brought so something like that again and do it on a much positive comment. Personally, it bigger stage.”

The Best Of Ireland Series | 7 Limerick Guide History & Heritage

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Limerick has a rich history and strong heritage, which remains ever present in its structures, its streets and its people. 1History &Heritage

The Best Of Ireland Series | 9 Limerick Guide History & Heritage Don’t Miss ! * Taking a time machine back to medieval splendour in majestic King John’s Castle.

* Marvelling at the architecture and interior of landmark Limerick buildings.

* Basking in the reverent atmosphere of Limerick’s cathedrals, abbeys and churches.

* Visiting The Treaty Stone, which played a vital role in ending conflict in the city.

* Tracing the footsteps of an ancient people on a prehistoric site.

in 1168 on the site of a palace donated is open to the public subject to church St Mary’s Cathedral by Donal Mor O’Brien, King of Munster. services. Its grand exterior is impressive Bridge Street Further back again, the site held a Viking but the inside is also full of character. 061-310293 meeting house. It is believed that parts Each of its skillfully appointed stained www.cathedral.limerick.anglican. of the palace were incorporated into glass windows has a background story as org the current structure i.e. the West door, colourful as the panes. The chandeliers, which was the palace’s main entrance. statues and wooden decorations are all The Cathedral of St Mary Blessed Virgin Stories about former uses abound. striking. is not only Limerick’s oldest building Legend has it that during the many One trait of St Mary’s is music. The still in regular use but also one of its sieges, defenders used to sharpen their choir sings on Sundays and instrumental most historical and beautiful. swords on the stonework and when recitals are often held there. The tower It is located in the medieval quarter, Cromwellian forces captured the city it is home to the famous bells and their adjacent to City Hall and a stone’s throw was used as a stable! distinctive sound has resounded through from King John’s Castle. It was founded Today, the Church of Ireland cathedral Limerick life for centuries.

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St John’s Cathedral The Treaty Stone Cathedral Place www.treatystone.com 061-414624 www.limerickdiocese.org/st-john-s- No visit would be complete without cathedral seeing Limerick’s most famous landmark, the Treaty Stone. According to One of the most iconic sights on the lore, the Treaty of Limerick was signed Limerick skyline is the magnificent spire on this very stone on October 3 1691 of St John’s Cathedral. within sight of two opposing armies on The foundation stone was laid in 1856 Thomond Bridge. The treaty ended the and its crowning glory, the magnificent second Siege of Limerick and a bitter tower, was completed in 1882. The war between William III and his father in Catholic cathedral—which replaced law, King James II. a church founded in the 1753—was designed by English architect of note, Thomas Hardwick. No visit would be complete without The Treaty Stone seeing Limerick’s “ sued for peace. The treaty agreed terms most famous including tolerance of the Catholic religion in Ireland. landmark, the It is thought to be a stone step used Treaty Stone to mount a horse and has had several resting places over the years. It currently The Jacobites sheltered in Limerick resides directly across the river from the and were besieged by the opposition. castle. Jacobite commander, Patrick Sarsfield,

and an iron gate. Bishop’s Palace Under the Acts of Settlement after Church Street the Cromwellian Wars from 1649-51, 061-313399 it was granted to the Church of Ireland www.limerickcivictrust.ie bishops. The bishops are believed to St John’s Cathedral have occupied the building until 1784 Bishop’s Palace was painstakingly and then it was privately owned. restored by Limerick Civic Trust and The trust’s HQ is the starting point The Cathedral of St John the Baptist, now stands as a testament to their great for many projects for its mission: to give it its full name, has many work in the city as the organisation’s “Improvement of our environment interesting features. The exterior, in headquarters. through positive action.” Victorian Gothic style, was influenced When the trust acquired the building Limerick Civic Trust runs walking by Salisbury Cathedral and was built by in 1986, it had been vacant for two tours and other events. local builders, Wallace & Sons, out of decades and was condemned but LCT Limerick limestone. would not let such a prominent part The altar table is of Limerick marble of the city’s history go to ruin. The and there are numerous fine examples corner site just across from the castle of stained glass windows, statues and on which the building rests, is a fixture eccelesiactical art within. Six bishops are on early maps. The building today is an interred here. early 18th century reproduction in the The tower, designed by local firm, Palladian style - the only example of its Messrs. Hennessey, measures around kind in Limerick and one of the oldest 265 feet (including a cross atop it) and is buildings in ‘Englishtown’. one of the tallest church spires in Ireland. The massive building has a classical The bell was carried from Dublin via facade and doorway; it also has a unique canal at the time. balcony window on its gable end. The Although it has undergone restoration interior is lavishly decorated with period over the years, the cathedral has been in features like fireplaces and a stained continuous use since it opened in 1861. glass window bearing the trust crest. It Mass times are available on the website. incorporates items salvaged by the trust Bishop’s Palace such as a mill wheel, a gothic entryway

The Best Of Ireland Series | 11 Limerick Guide History & Heritage

a recent 21st century makeover to all its gate towers remain intact along with King John’s Castle facilities is now a landmark not to be numerous other features. The many King’s Island missed by visitors of all ages. events in the castle’s fascinating history 061-360788 With the help of an ultramodern and are illustrated in the attached interpretive www.shannonheritage.com interactive visitor experience, a trip to centre. the castle is more an exercise in time- It has everything from touch screen King John’s Castle has been an imposing travel illustrating its dramatic history technology to 3D models; from fixture on the banks of the River with over 800 years of stories. discovery drawers to computer generated Shannon since the 13th century and with After Limerick was awarded its first imagery, animations and projections. Charter and Mayor in 1197 by Richard I There are games and treasure hunts of England, the Anglo-Normans wanted designed just for kids and they can even to make their mark on the city and fortify try on historic costumes like chainmail its defenses. King John ordered a castle tunics or 18th century dresses. There is a to be built and work started around 1200, spectacular, panoramic 360 degree view going on for over a decade. The castle from the tallest turret. was built on an existing fortification in In peak season the castle courtyard the oldest part of Limerick with a good bustles with authentic activities like a vantage point up and down the river. blacksmith’s workshop and a Norman It was a magnificent feat of campaign tent. Actors interact with construction and ended up in the thick of visitors explaining their roles as a master some major historical events. Though it mason, a constable and a moneyer in the was attacked many times, its high outer castle’s mint. walls, corner towers, battlements and

12 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide History & Heritage Fascinating Fortress A towering fortress overshadowing the banks of the River Shannon since the 13th century, King John’s Castle now holds a wealth of information for the visitor

It has everything from touch screen “ technology to 3D models; from discovery drawers to computer generated

An archaeological dig in the grounds imagery has been opened up for viewing and is period. There are more walkways can take up to three hours. Opening now connected with an archway into underneath the centre. hours are: April-September, 9.30am- the bowels of the castle so people can All the castle towers have been 5.30pm (last admission 4pm) and see the ‘great medieval hall’ which was dressed to recreate the daily operation of October–March, 9.30am-4.30pm (last excavated in the 1990s. For history a busy military castle and new additions admission 3.15pm). Opening times may buffs young and old, some of the 1,000 also include a specially designed be subject to change. items discovered during digs here are education room and for weary time Reservations are not necessary on display - some for the first time i.e. travellers in need of refreshment, a café but there are lower rates available by a pistol from the famous 1642 siege to relax in. A visit to King John’s Castle booking online.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 13 Limerick Guide History & Heritage Rock Solid Heritage

Image: Lough Gur

From ancient settlements to medieval The Medieval Village Kilmallock History splendor, abbeys to castles, the structural heritage of Limerick has of Askeaton Trail 063-91300 endured through the ages and there The medieval village of Askeaton are lots of sites to explore. was once a stronghold of the Munster Kilmallock, known as the ‘crossroads Geraldines, the Anglo-Norman Earls of of Munster’, is an important Norman Desmond. Today, the impressive ruins town and was at the centre of Ireland’s Ireland’s Prettiest of Askeaton Castle are an imposing political development from the 13th sight in the town. It has a fascinating through to the 17th centuries. This Village Adare history. The building, which hosted history is evident through the rich With its thatched cottages and grand Askeaton’s Hellfire Club dates back to manor house, Adare is picturesque with the 17th century. ‘Hellfire clubs’ were a rich history. The shell of Desmond gentleman’s clubs where men would Castle, which shadows the banks of the gather to drink and make merry but there River Maigue outside the village, and the are various spooky, occult associations Franciscan, Trinitarian and Augustinian with them too. The ruins of the well- Abbeys suggest a long-term settlement. preserved 14th Century Franciscan But Adare really sprang up in the 18th Friary are also in the village. Tours century when the Earl of Dunraven are available from a local guide. The built a huge house and estate. The 19th village has many modern conveniences century rebuild of Adare Manor is now too, including a well-equipped leisure a spectacular hotel and golf resort. complex. The Adare Heritage Centre can inform visitors about the history as well as point them towards a wealth of shops, fine bars and restaurants and local activities like Franciscan Friary, Askeaton golf and angling.

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Holy Trinity Abbey Church in Adare

Medieval Cannon in Glenstal Abbey Kilmallock Dominican Friary architectural heritage that is the town’s and the community has around 40 church. Three churches, one with a 15th monuments. Along with the well- members. The abbey itself—dedicated century tower, and a graveyard survive preserved ruins of the Dominican Friary, to St Joseph and St Columba—is based now. there are remains of medieval walls with in and adjacent to a Normanesque a huge castle gate type entrance when castle built by the Barrington family. These are just a small selection of the entering the town from the Limerick City The grounds are ideal for exploring and heritage sites around Limerick, which direction. There is also an interesting walking and include lakes, woodland also include Limerick Masonic Centre, museum and history trail to enjoy. and a walled, terraced garden containing Desmond Hall, Killagholehane Cemetery a unique ‘Bible Garden’. Visitors are & Church, Carrigogunnell Castle, welcome, especially those seeking Glenquin Castle and more. The impressive spiritual respite. ruins of Askeaton Castle Mungret Abbey The grounds “ are ideal for are an imposing Just to the south of the road from sight in the town Limerick to Askeaton on the R859 road, exploring and Mungret Abbey reportedly dates back to “ walking and 551 AD when a monastery was founded Glenstal Abbey here by Saint Nessan. It grew into a include lakes, 061-621000 thriving community with six churches woodland and a and 1,500 inhabitants but declined after Glenstal Abbey is a Benedictine many Viking raids. walled, terraced monastery in Murroe in east Limerick garden and on its impressive 500 acre grounds, The site was reputedly given over to the it has a secondary school and a farm. The Bishop of Limerick in the 11th century current Abbot is Mark Patrick Hederman and one church later became a parish

The Best Of Ireland Series | 15 Limerick Guide History & Heritage

Neolithic Wonder catered for, as is anyone who requires a Saturday and Sunday. Please note that Lough Gur Heritage personalised guided tour. opening times are reduced during the The newly refurbished visitor centre winter. Centre tells the story of pre-Celtic Ireland Admission rates: Adults, €5; senior Lough Gur, Co. Limerick with the help of audio-visual features, citizen/student, €4; children, €3 and a 061-385186 interactive elements and displays of family ticket is €15. www.loughgur.com artifacts and replicas. Lying just 21km south east of Limerick The Honey Fitz Theatre here hosts city, the “magical and mysterious” regular events and is a venue for Lough Gur is one of Ireland’s most festivals such as the annual storytelling important archaeological sites. festival. The story of the first settlers in the area stretches back 6,000 years— First settlers beginning in the Stone Age and  continuing right up to modern times. You in the area will be captivated by the beauty, charm stretches back and tranquility of this ancient place, its “ glassy lake and undulating hills. 6,000 years— Along with history, there is a wealth of folklore associated with Lough Gur. beginning in the There are ancient dwellings, megalithic tombs, crannogs and castles to see here. Stone Age The heritage centre is also located five Visitors can also engage in natural kilometres from the Great Grange Stone pursuits like bird-watching. walking and Circle, which is Ireland’s largest stone cycling on a variety of trails (available circle. for download from the website). Guided tours and walking tours Opening times are: Monday to Lough Gur Heritage Centre are available. Schools and groups are Friday, 10am-5pm and 12 noon-6pm on

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Whether the display of heirlooms, visual art or live performance, Limerick excels in its goal to inform, induce wonder and entertain. 2Arts &Culture

The Best Of Ireland Series | 17 Limerick Guide Arts & Culture

Culture Mecca f, as writer, Thomas Merton, over the All Blacks in 1978 is recounted include Bottom Dog Theatre Company, said that “art enables us to find in all its mud-soaked, bone-crunching Limerick Youth Theatre, Almalgamation ourselves and lose ourselves at the glory. Breen’s play highlights the Theatre Company, Magic Roundabout same time”, then Limerick is the sporting culture in the city, which was Theatre Company, Wildebeest Theatre ultimate lost and found collection. The European City of Sport in 2011. Company, Beyond the Bark puppet ITreaty City and wider Shannonside and installation theatre, Honest Arts, has long had a burning passion for From award-winning fiction writer, the Cecilian Musical Society, Limerick heritage, culture and the arts. Kevin Barry to wildly successful Musical Society, Quarry Players and children’s writer, Darren Shan to Irish Torch Players. These are in addition to It remains the most vibrant cultural hub language writer, Críostóir Ó Floinn, many individual practitioners and groups in the mid-west today and has a great Limerick residents have proven they working here currently, and a constant deal to offer whatever your interest. It is have the ‘write’ stuff. stream of touring productions in local teeming with heritage sites, museums, venues. galleries and performance venues. Limerick has produced its fair share of stars of stage and screen too. Oscar It remains the Limerick has been immortalised in nominated actor, Richard Harris, of  several famous texts by those “bred Gladiator and Harry Potter fame is most vibrant and buttered” here. In Frank McCourt’s in good company with broadcasters, cultural hub in memoir, Angela’s Ashes, the lanes, life Terry Wogan, Geri Maye and Emma “ and local characters of thirties and forties O’Driscoll and Jon Kenny and Pat the mid-west Limerick are vividly drawn. In Mike Shortt of comedy duo, D’Unbelievables; Finn’s play, Pigtown, the protagonist, Liam O’Brien who starred in UK today Tommy Clocks, illustrates a century soap, Emmerdale. Film director, David Local band, The Cranberries, have of vibrant Limerick history from the Gleeson, hails from Limerick played to stadiums full of people across ‘Limerick Soviet’ to ‘The Emergency’. the globe but other musical artists Theatre—amateur and professional— like Tuesday Blue, Hermitage Green, In John Breen’s Alone It Stands, the and musical theatre has a massive Windings, Fox Jaw, Moscow Metro, momentous rugby victory of Munster presence here. Local companies Brad Pitt Light Orchestra, Niamh Dunne

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and Andreas Varady to name but a few art but its fashion department is ranked have carved out niches in the music as one of the world’s top 50 fashion industry too. Limerick’s music scene is colleges too. The University of Limerick, as vibrant as ever. Limerick Institute of Technology and Mary Immaculate College have Bill Whelan’s, Riverdance, forged established themselves among the an iconic legacy as the soundtrack best third level colleges in Ireland— accompanying the skill of traditional cultivating creativity in all areas of local Irish dance in the acclaimed stage show. life, from business to architecture, from Classical music is popular here too. The technology to sport. Irish Chamber Orchestra is based at the University of Limerick. The choral The copious amount of voluntary tradition is continued by Limerick and special interest organisations in Choral Union, Ancór chamber choir and Limerick contribute vastly to its richness Limerick Gospel Choir. and character. The diverse offering in everything from practitioners to Artists like John Shinnors and Sean performances was one of the reasons Keating—along with biennial art why Limerick was chosen as the first exhibition, eva International—have put National City of Culture in 2014 and the Limerick on the wider visual art map. legacy is expected to continue for many Limerick boasts a wealth of working years. artists, art collectives and galleries. Limerick Craft Hub, a retail and It would be impossible to sum up workspace for craft-workers, is a recent Limerick’s plentiful cultural offering in addition. its entirety except to say that city and county have it down to a fine art. Limerick School of Art and Design has an excellent reputation, not alone for fine

The Best Of Ireland Series | 19 Limerick Guide Arts & Culture Don’t Miss ! * Experiencing tradition and history through interacting with it in Limerick’s museums and heritage centres.

* Beholding the visual art and sculpture on display in Limerick City Gallery of Art and other local galleries.

* Joining the audience for a vibrant live performance in a nearby venue.

* Getting out in the air to see some of the many examples of public art and monuments

The museum has thousands of for Spillane’s ‘Garryowen’ tobacco, old Limerick Museum interesting objects, which span centuries tools, a printer’s block and a collection 061-417826 of local and regional history. From of Limerick silver and lace. Sports www.limerick.ie/ the Bronze Age to Georgian times to collectables are a prominent element historicalresources/limerick- the 20th century, there is something to including items like books, medals and museum help you step back in time including match tickets/programmes such as those photographs, old money, letters, from Munster’s historic win against the Limerick’s exciting past never gets documents and many more artifacts. New Zealand All Blacks in 1978. old and the municipal museum aims to Important events like the War The museum was founded in 1906 showcase the city in its full glory. of Independence take prominence. and was opened to the public in 1916. Part of the museum’s huge collection Many personal collections have been It has had several homes since then. is temporarily being housed in Istabraq bequeathed to the museum so there are Coupled with the City Archives (housed Hall—an exhibition space in City Hall genuine local touches and the museum in the city library at the Granary on on Merchants Quay—until it is moved is leading a project to conserve the city’s nearby Michael Street), the museum is to its new permanent home at the former ancient walls. a valuable resource. Its extensive online Franciscan Church on Henry Street (it is Limerick’s commercial pursuits are catalogue is well worth a look. hoped that will happen in late 2015). represented in memorabilia such as a tin

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section, see what is reputed to be one The Hunt Museum of the 30 pieces of silver paid to Judas Rutland Street for the betrayal of Christ. Everything 061-312833 from pottery to chalices, sculptures to www.huntmuseum.com tapestries, brooches to spears are on display. Located in the grand surroundings of The history of the museum is as Limerick’s former Customs House, The interesting as the many items in it. The Hunt Museum is a private collection Hunt family moved to Lough Gur from turned public wonder. Britain in 1939. As their collection grew, The museum - set over three floors it was their dream to put it on display. with many rooms - contains over 2,000 The Hunt Museum Trust was established antiquities and works of art, which were in 1974 to achieve this. acquired by John and Gertrude Hunt. As professional antique dealers, they also The museum gathered interesting objects that appealed  to them so the collection is unique and contains over also has an extensive online catalogue eclectic. and is constantly researching the The building is beautifully restored 2,000 antiquities provenance of items in the collection. and retains many period features such “ and works of art The museum runs an education as the immense staircase and high programme and facilitates school visits/ windows, some of which look out onto Parts of the collection were displayed workshops. It can host meetings and the calming waters of the Shannon. in what is now the University of other events, including its regular Rooms are divided into loose categories Limerick and in a tower house the Hunts schedule of lectures. A few steps up from i.e. the ancient world with artifacts restored at Craggaunowen in Clare. the gift shop, there is a café/restaurant from Greece, Rome, Egypt and more Eventually, thanks to a public-private to enjoy a snack or meal and on the and pieces from early Ireland like partnership and efforts of many, the basement floor, there is a space for Neolithic flints, a Bronze Age shield and landmark Customs House was renovated visiting exhibitions. cauldron. Other displays are dedicated and the museum opened in 1997. Sadly Admission prices: adults €5 (conc. to Christian objects such as a unique the couple passed away before they €3.50); children €2.50; students in 9th century Antrim Cross; jewellery could see their wish fulfilled. Their primary/secondary school groups €2 and like the Mary Queen of Scots cross and family and trustees are dedicated to a family ticket is €12. The Hunt Museum 18/19th century decorative arts with fine keeping the spirit of the Hunts’ curiosity offers guided tours on request (booking examples of silver, glass and ceramics. and generosity alive. required and a fee of €2 per person Browse works by leading artists such Since the museum houses one of applies). as Picasso, Yeats, Moore and Renoir; the greatest private collections in the imagine what battles the fearsome country, there are panels celebrating the weapons saw and in the treasury The Hunt Museum and Hunt family. It

The Hunt Museum

The Best Of Ireland Series | 21 Limerick Guide Arts & Culture Museums Galore The past is ever present with Limerick’s The Foynes Flying Boat Museum fantastic museum and heritage centre in county Limerick (069-65416) offering, which ranges from famous explores the golden age of aviation citizens to aviation history. when dignitaries like John F. Kennedy, Frank McCourt is one of Limerick’s Humphrey Bogart and Ernest most famous sons having won a Pulitzer Hemingway passed through here on Prize for his childhood memoir, Angela’s Atlantic crossovers. The award-winning Ashes. The Frank McCourt Museum facility is the only aviation museum in Hartstonge Street (061-319710) in his in Ireland and the only museum in the former school is a tribute to the writer world dedicated to flying boats and and an era. The 1930s schoolroom passenger travel.The amazing story is recreated in detail. There is also of how Foynes became a fixture in memorabilia on display including an the aviation world from 1937-1945 is antique bicycle, schoolbooks, paintings told through interactive exhibits in the and photographs. Upstairs from the original terminal building.You can hop Frank McCourt Museum schoolroom, there is a recreation of the on board a full-sized replica of the plane McCourt family’s flat. in question - the only existing full sized replica Boeing B314 flying boat in the belongings here - in his former school world - before trying the flight simulator - as well as artifacts and displays Did You Know? to play at taking to the skies! recording village life at the time. The cottage in which he lived is also JFK preserved. The 1930s The Irish Palatine Heritage Centre Former US President, John F. Kennedy, (069-63511) in Rathkeale, county has Limerick roots. President schoolroom is Kennedy’s great-grandfather, Thomas Limerick houses an exhibition charting Fitzgerald (the man who gave the recreated in the Palatine experience in the ‘Emerald family the ‘F’ in their name), hails “ detail Isle’. The Palatines came from Germany from the east Limerick village of and after a period of persecution, came Bruff. He was born in Bruff in 1823 The De Valera Museum and Bruree to settle in Ireland and all over the but emigrated to Boston in 1852. In June 2013, the president’s daughter, Heritage Centre (063-91300) is world. The heritage centre outlines their Caroline Kennedy Schlossberg, and dedicated to Ireland’s former president historical origins, their contribution to her family visited the village to and renowned statesman, Eamon De Irish farming life and their formative role trace their roots there. Valera. Born in1882, De Valera spent in the development of world Methodism his early years in Bruree and there is through displays of articles, photographs a unique collection of his personal and more.

Richard Harris Actor, singer, film director, theatrical producer and writer, Richard Harris, was born in Limerick in 1930. The Oscar nominated actor is known for film roles as King Arthur in Camelot; Bull McCabe in The Field; Marcus Aurelius in Gladiator and Professor Dumbledore in two Harry Potter films. He also released numerous music singles and albums. There is a statue depicting Harris as King Arthur on Bedford Row in the city. Foynes Flying Boat Museum

22 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Arts & Culture

Smaller Galleries

In Limerick, art is everywhere but not least in the fine collection of smaller galleries and artistic spaces. Many are mentioned in this section but there are yet more…

With over 50 members, the skill of printmaking is kept alive at Limerick Printmakers (061-311806) at its studios and gallery at 3 John’s Square. Exhibitions cover printmaking, painting, drawing, mixed media, sculpture and Limerick City Gallery of Art installation work and it also runs classes for adults and children. art in all media - a total of 831 works Limerick City Gallery with artists including Camille Souter, Ormston House in Patrick Street (www. Evie Hone, Jack B Yeats, Sean Keating ormstonhouse.com) is a 2,100 square- of Art and Paul Henry. It also holds the foot cultural resource centre and gallery Pery Square National Collection of Contemporary space runs a year round programme of 061-310633 Drawing and the Michael O’Connor contemporary art exhibitions. www.gallery.limerick.ie International Poster Collection. Picasso once said that “art washes away Some of the permanent collection is Normoyle Frawley Gallery (061- from the soul the dust of everyday life” always on display and that is a diverse 315401) in John Street aims to support and the best place in Limerick for a mix of classic and contemporary in a the work of both established and ‘cleansing’ visit is the Limerick City range of media. The gallery also holds emerging artists, particularly those Gallery of Art. exhibitions several times a year so the art resident in Ireland. It also does framing is always changing, every visit unique. and sells art supplies. The Gallery Limerick’s One exhibition of note is the acclaimed (087-6750754) on Bedford Row offers  biennial of visual art, eva International. affordable art, craft, photography and municipal art The Carnegie Building is a strange framing. collection is one hybrid of old and new. It has some “ charming features like sash windows and of the finest in the original wooden floor. The freshest Fine collection of the country works added an extension including a smaller galleries delightful café and a new wing. There is Limerick’s municipal art collection is a striking wall of windows looking out and artistic one of the finest in the country outside onto an oasis in the city - the People’s “ spaces Dublin. The gallery is based in the two- Park. Upstairs, the ultramodern, white storey Carnegie Building, originally built space is a blank canvas with several Friars’ Gate Theatre in Kilmallock in 1906 and in 1985, the entire space rooms coming off a balcony overlooking (063-98727) holds regular art was given over to the gallery. It has been the ground floor. exhibitions. refurbished over time; the most recent After an amble around the gallery, the revamp was completed in 2011. airy Zest Café is an ideal place to watch Established in 2009, Draíocht Gallery LCGA is home to an important the world go by with a coffee. and Shop (061-395539) in Adare collection of Irish 18th to 21st century displays contemporary Irish art and crafts. From paintings to ceramics, sculpture to furniture, the owners remain in close contact with artists so the display is a constantly changing canvas. Artists include Syra Larkin, Liz Burgess, Vincent Crotty and Jane Hilliard.

The Lucy Erridge Craft Shop and Art Gallery (061-396898) in Adare displays the work of many talented artists and craftspeople through media like painting, textiles and jewellery.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 23 Limerick Guide Arts & Culture

The Lime Tree Theatre Mary Immaculate College, Courtbrack Avenue (off Dock Road) 061-774774 www.limetreetheatre.ie

Other performance venues should take a leaf out of the book of one of Limerick’s newest offerings—the Lime Tree Theatre. The 510 seat theatre is located in Mary Immaculate College, only five minutes from the city centre. As one of the largest additions in the recent development project in the third level institution, the Lime Tree is both versatile and state of the art. The Lime Tree Theatre The proscenium arch layout, over two levels, means that the audience views are first-rate from all angles. theatre world including prestigious tours and bar service on performance nights It hosts all types of live performance by the Abbey Theatre and Druid Theatre and offers pre-theatre dinner deals with a as well as other events including Company—tempting them back to the number of nearby eateries. theatre, music, comedy, traditional arts, Treaty City after a long break! Box Office opening times are: children’s shows and conferences. Its It has also fostered a relationship with Tuesday-Saturday, 1-5.30pm and year round programme incorporates all the community as a venue for schools on performance days, 1-8pm. For these art forms and more. performances and local theatre/musical current programme details, see www. Since opening in late 2012, the venue society productions. limetreetheatre.ie. has attracted some big names in the Irish The Lime Tree offers refreshments

legendary Irish musician Christy Moore to large scale opera, the annual Irish Chamber Orchestra season and performances by the RTÉ National Symphony and Concert Orchestras. there is truly something for everyone.

Some of the biggest names in “ their fields have performed on the UCH stage At Christmas enjoy one of the best Pantos in Ireland with the only, full scale professional production in the region. University Concert Hall Come early and dine in one of the on- campus restaurants, have a drink at the located on the beautiful University of bar, browse the Watercolour Collection University Concert Limerick campus. of Ireland located in the lobby then sit With a hugely varied, year round back, relax and enjoy the show. Hall programme, UCH caters for all tastes A visit to University Concert Hall is a Foundation Building, University of whether your passion is opera, comedy, truly unique experience. Limerick, Castletroy music, drama or pantomime! Check out www.uch.ie for full listings 061-331549 Some of the biggest names in their or keep in touch on Facebook or Twitter www.uch.ie fields have performed on the UCH (@UCHLimerick). University Concert Hall is a 1,000 seat stage–from comedian Billy Connolly, multi-purpose entertainment venue singer/songwriter Van Morrison and

24 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Arts & Culture Handmade in Limerick

Irish craft studio experience. Those with an interest can also get Limerick Craft Hub The retail area in the airy, light-filled crafty and learn to make unique items 9 Lower Cecil Street space, has these and more to offer themselves with a variety of classes 061-315668 including clothing, accessories, candles, taught by experienced makers. www.limerickcrafthub.ie soap & cosmetics, books & bookbinding, Limerick Craft Hub does not just wall art, homewares, toys, scultpures in allow artists a full-time space to create Immerse yourself in local craft and iron, wood & ceramics and a wide range and show their work but also engages design at Limerick Craft Hub, where of artisan foods from jams to chocolate. with the community staging and hosting local craft-workers showcase their work, Gift Hampers and vouchers are also regular events. their methods and run classes/event available. This non-profit resource—developed workshops. in partnership with Limerick Craft A new addition to Limerick’s rich Includes the Collective—was founded as a legacy cultural tapestry, the craft hub includes  project as part of Limerick City of the city’s newest and largest quality craft city’s newest and Culture 2014. This is timely as next year, shop, a craft gallery, a craft classroom the DCCoI is running an initiative called and open studios where you can meet the “ largest quality Year of Irish Design 2015—celebrating makers and see their skills in action. the talent and diversity of native The craft disciplines on show by craft shop, a craft designers. resident craft-workers include ceramics, gallery, a craft For more information, Limerick Craft jewellery and feltmaking. The Design Hub, see: Facebook, LimerickCraftHub; & Crafts Council of Ireland (DCCoI) classroom Twitter, @LimCraftHub or email: info@ has accredited Limerick Craft Hub as an limerickcrafthub.ie.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 25 Limerick Guide Arts & Culture Art all around us

Limerick has lots of fine examples of A short walk away, the nineteenth public art, monuments and memorials. century Tait’s Clock, stands over Baker There is a From the county’s roadside sculptures Place. It was erected in honour of Sir wonderful to celebrated figures immortalised in Peter Tait, the Scotsman who established bronze in the city, there is a wonderful Limerick Clothing Factory. Outside the selection as you selection to wander about and see. historic Leamy House on Hartstonge “ wonder the city Street is a bust of the author, Frank In the Georgian Quarter, several McCourt. Part of the building, the streets monuments are scattered among the writer’s former schoolhouse, is now a Jim Connolly, also notes his roles in This greenery of People’s Park. These include museum in his honour. Sporting Life, The Field and Gladiator. the 71 foot high classical triumphal column honouring Limerick MP, Thomas On the upper end of O’Connell Street, Down by the riverside, there are many Spring Rice; a Victorian drinking there is a tall statue of the thoroughfare’s interesting sights. Outside Jury’s Inn fountain in memory of Richard Russell namesake, political leader Daniel Hotel on Lower Mallow Street, the and a bandstand - both restored in recent O’Connell, on an island in the middle Broken Heart Memorial commemorates years - and the Children’s Remembrance of the road replete with a fountain and victims of the Great Famine and Plaque. flower beds. Further down O’Connell emigrants who had to leave Ireland as a Street, sandwiched between Cecil Street result of the tragedy. Along the quays, In Pery Square, there are two memorials and Shannon Street is ‘Players’, a statue there is also a memorial to Merchant to military personnel. The imposing depicting a hurler and a rugby player - Seaman and to Limerick’s hardworking Carnegie Building, housing Limerick twin passions in Limerick. dockers - showing two dockers carrying City Gallery of Art, has some cheeky, a plank, with other work paraphernalia bronze ‘Little Green Men’ on the On Bedford Row stands a sculpture nearby. ledges and window sills by artist, Mike of renowned Limerick actor, Richard Fitzpatrick. Harris, in his portrayal of King Arthur in In Cruises Street, ‘The Singer from the film,Camelot . The piece by sculptor, Quimper’ by Rowan Gillespie is

26 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Arts & Culture

In the Medieval Quarter, there are a host cast iron sculpture is affectionately of landmarks including a statue of ‘The nicknamed ‘Brown Thomas’ by students Bard of Thomond’, Michael Hogan, - a play on the Irish department store outside King John’s Castle. In front of chain name. City Hall at Merchant’s Quay, there are numerous pieces including ‘Volte’ by Limerick County Hall in Dooradoyle has Vivienne Roche, a painted steel structure several commissioned pieces includiong with openings ringed in bronze. Behind ‘The Numbers Game’ by artist, Tom City Hall on the riverside walk, there is a Fitzgerald. The sculpture consists of two sculpture of a group of ‘Wild Geese’ set free-standing bronze uprights on top of amid a fountain pool. which are attached two profiles of faces looking at each other. On George’s Quay, there is an unusual ‘Anti-War Memorial’ featuring two In recent years, Limerick boasts some figurative metal busts. spectacular urban art by graffiti artists from Limerick and further afield. The In Cathedral Place, there is a large statue annual Make a Move Festival in July, of Irish military hero, Patrick Sarsfield. which celebrates hip hop and urban art, One of his most illustrious moments as has seen visiting artists use city sites as a a commander was a bold and successful canvas to great effect. cavalry raid on Williamite forces during permanently entertaining. The nine foot the Siege of Limerick in 1690. These items are just a taste of Limerick’s bronze was inspired by singer, Katell public art offering. Make sure when Keineg, a native of Quimper - a city Further afield on the UL campus, there exploring to be on the lookout for which Limerick is twinned with. are many pieces of art including Antony interesting pieces. Gormley’s ‘Together and Apart’. This

The Best Of Ireland Series | 27 Limerick Guide Arts & Culture Venues Aplenty Limerick doesn’t want for performance venues but as well as the larger and best known, there is an abundance of smaller performance spots. Friars’ Gate Theatre in Kilmallock (www.friarsgate.ie) has a diverse, year- round programme of theatre, music, visual art and other cultural events. The Honey Fitz Theatre near Lough Gur is used both as a theatre and community hall. It hosts occasional events, often for the Lough Gur Dramatic Society and the Lough Gur Storytelling Festival at Halloween (www.loughgur.com/honey- fitz-theatre). Friars’ Gate Theatre The Millennium Theatre in Limerick Institute of Technology (www.litmt.ie) hosts performances and Dance Limerick irishworldacademy.ie). Live music is the most common form is based in a refurbished former church The White House Pub on Glentworth of entertainment in local bars too. In the in the city’s St John’s Square—hosting Street has its unique ‘Poetry Revival’ past few years, site-specific events are dance and other artistic events. every Wednesday night as well as other more common too so non-typical venues The Irish World Academy of events. The Loft venue overhead the are often used. Music and Dance at UL has regular Locke Bar on George’s Quay hosts concerts and dance recitals (www. music, theatre and comedy events.

Dolan’s Warehouse Dock Road 061-314483 www.dolans.ie

Dolan’s Warehouse is a venue beloved among musicians and fans alike for its electric atmosphere and ease of viewing. The Warehouse is a purpose built live music venue adjoined to the world- famous Dolan’s Pub and Restaurant facing Limerick docks. The pub also boasts a more intimate Upstairs performance space. Since its inception in 1998, Dolan’s Warehouse has played host to hundreds of leading music, comedy and theatrical artists. These include Kasabian, Snow Patrol, Imelda May, Tommy Tiernan, Sharon Shannon, Franz Ferdinand along with the very best of local Limerick artists. Gigs cover all genres – jazz, blues, traditional Irish, roots, rock and roll, dance and more. As one of Limerick’s venues, the listings here often include drama, musical theatre and stand-up comedy Dolan’s Warehouse too.

28 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Festivals & Events

Limerick has an excellent range of festivals and events all year round with something to suit everyone from 3young to old. Festivals & Events

The Best Of Ireland Series | 29 Limerick Guide Festivals & Events

Festival Fever

From sports to literature, family fun to personal, social and work-related skills participants. The road race through the music, Limerick hosts a wide variety of with talks, workshops and taster classes. city caters for walkers and runners of festivals all year round. There are well all abilities right up to marathon level over 40 cultural events in any given year April (www.greatlimerickrun.com). in Limerick and below is just a taste... The Éigse Michael Hartnett Poetry, Arts & Literary Festival takes place in June February Kilmallock in County Limerick (www. The Foynes Irish Coffee Festival in late One of Limerick’s most prominent eigsemichaelhartnett.ie). Honouring the May/early June, where competitors vie authors, Kate O’Brien, is celebrated well-known poet, it includes lectures, for the title of Champion Irish Coffee with the Limerick Literary Festival poetry readings and more. Maker and attendees enjoy the spoils and this month with a host of readings, associated events. (www.foynesfestival. discussions and more (www. Limerick hosts a kateobrienweekend.com).  wide variety of March festivals all year Mid-month, the streets come alive “ with the Limerick St. Patrick’s Day round Festival. The St Patrick’s Day parade May on March 17 attracts up to 70,000 Arguably the biggest event on the local spectators. The festival also incorporates calendar is Riverfest, which gets the the Limerick International Band entire city into party mode. A celebration Championship—a hotly contested of all that is great about Limerick, there competition to find the best marching are barbeques, fireworks, markets, street band. performances and much more (www. limerick.ie/riverfest). The Fresh Film Festival screens the work of young filmmakers in March The Great Limerick Run (held at the (www.freshfilmfestival.net). The end of the Bank Holiday weekend) Limerick Lifelong Learning Festival has grown massively since it began a presents an opportunity to develop few short ago, attracting thousands of

30 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Festivals & Events

© Munster Images

com). The Limerick Sings Limerick turns rainbow coloured October International Choral Festival (www. during the Limerick LGBTQ Pride Limerick’s love of poetry is celebrated in limericksings.com) is a non-competitive Festival in late August/September the Cuisle Limerick City International celebration of choral music in June. (www.limerickpride.ie). The lively and Poetry Festival (www.cuisle.org). positive atmosphere celebrates pride July in Limerick’s diverse culture. The On July 4, the city is made merry with programme includes a pride parade American-style family picnics, roller and the crowning of Mr and Mrs Gay parties and much more for the Fourth Limerick as well as other musical and of July Festival. The Pig ‘n’ Porter information events. Festival this month is Ireland’s largest tag rugby festival, attracting teams from September all over Ireland and the world (www. During The Knights of Westfest pignporter.com). in September, the county town of Newcastle West holds a series of fun The Make a Move Festival in July events revolving around the themes of celebrates hip-hop culture and urban music, family and food (www.westfest. art, showcasing the creative talents ie). The Limerick Jazz Festival and skills of dancers, rappers and attracts the best Irish and international graffiti artists. (www.facebook.com/ contemporary jazz artists (www. makeamovelimerick). limerickjazzfestival.com).

August For a broader display of Limerick’s The Beast of Ballyhoura Adventure cultural offering, the Elemental Race pits teams against each other Arts & Culture Festival (www. and the elements as they compete in elementalfestival.com) and Limerick mountain biking, kayaking and other Culture Night are bursting with challenges (www.beastofballyhoura. performances and events in the city’s com). cultural hotspots.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 31 Limerick Guide Festivals & Events

© Ilen

© Munster Images

The lively Events include readings, book launches entertainment at Limerick Racecourse.  and the coveted Young Poet of the Year The course has a year round calendar of and positive Award. racing events too. atmosphere The Richard Harris International These are just selection what’s on in “ celebrates pride Film Festival marks the outstanding Limerick and there are numerous other career of one of Limerick’s most events and festivals. Dates and details in Limerick’s famous sons—actor, director, producer are always subject to change. See www. diverse culture and more, Richard Harris (www. limerick.ie for more information. richardharrisfilmfestival.com). There are a variety events including film screenings. The Limerick Women’s Mini-Marathon takes place late in the month.

December At Christmas time, the city transforms once again as the Limerick Christmas Festival brings Santa Claus, ice skating, Christmas markets and concerts to the city to warm the heart on those chilly winter days.

The Limerick Christmas Racing Festival (www.limerickraces.ie) is a highlight of the festive and New Year’s celebrations in Limerick. This four- day racing festival features national hunt racing as well as lots of extra

32 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Activities

There are oodles to see and experience in Limerick so whatever your interest, you’ll 4 never be short of something to do here. Get Active in Limerick

The Best Of Ireland Series | 33 Limerick Guide Activities Don’t Miss ! * Seeing amazing sights and learning new facts while taking a walking or bus tour around Limerick.

* Setting your pulse racing with excitement with an active pursuit or adventure activity.

* Shouting encouragement until hoarse at a sports match or event.

* Enjoying indoor fun at a play centre, bowling alley or cinema.

* Getting out in the fresh air in a city park or county beauty spot.

* Using Limerick as a gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland’s vast coastal driving route.

Walking Tours or a leisurely stroll with a Contact Limerick Tourist Office on Cathedral, McNamara’s Band, the Hunt purpose, why not take one of 061-317522 for more information on Museum, the Treaty Stone, the Bard of Limerick City’s interesting these tours. Thomond Statue and King Johns Castle walking tours? Limerick Civic Trust runs several and the price includes a complimentary There is a historical walking tour walking tours of historic Limerick. There tea/coffee at Hunt Museum Café. Ftaking in sights like King’s Island, is a choice of a Georgian Quarter Tour, Irishtown, Georgian Limerick and a People’s Park Tour, The Georgian For more information, call 087-6163250 Newtown Pery, with the varied history House and Garden Tour, a tour of North or see http://stmarysaid.blogspot.ie. outlined along the way. Munster Masonic Centre and a tour http://www.limerick.ie/visiting/ The Angela’s Ashes walking tour of Medieval Englishtown. For more thingstodo/tours/tours is based on locations featured in the information on these, call 061-313399 or http://www.limerickcarriagetours.com/ Pulitzer Prize-winning book by the late see www.limerickcivictrust.ie. Frank McCourt. The locations en route Historical Limerick Up Close and There are other tours of sites in County include Arthur’s Quay, River Shannon, Personal is a tour operated under the Limerick available too. For more Windmill Street, Barrack Hill, Leamy’s auspices of the community project, St information on tours see limerick.ie School, Parnell Street and more. Mary’s AID. The tour takes in St Mary’s

34 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Activities

timeline Limerick History

812 – A settlement at Limerick is found- ed by the Vikings.

1197 – Limerick City gets a Charter of incorporation from King John 1 of England.

1212 – King John’s Castle completed.

1650/51– Oliver Cromwell’s forces besiege the city. The opposing force of Irish Confederate Catholics and English Royalists eventually surrender. Red Viking Tours 1690 – Jacobite forces are besieged by the Williamite army in Limerick. The tour takes approximately an hour Red Viking Tours and a half and begins at Arthur’s Quay 1691 – Second siege of Limerick by 061-394033 in the center of the city—operating daily Williamite forces. Treaty of Limerick is www.redvikingtours.com from May 1 until the weather gets too signed as Jacobites surrender. cold! No city trek is complete without a The new hop on hop off route with 1765- Edmund Sexton Pery good guided bus tour and Red Viking a ticket valid for two consecutive days commissions an engineer to plan a promises to give the visitor 101 allows great flexibility to explore the city new city on his land. ‘Newtown Pery’ fascinating facts about Limerick while at your ease. makes up a large portion of the city’s central business district today. you sit back and enjoy the sights. The open top tour bus comes into Hop on hop off 1852- Limerick Market Trustees are its own in fine weather but either way  incorporated, running the city’s there is always live commentary with route with a markets. the friendly driver guide. Travel back ticket valid for through time as you are ferried around “ 1877- People’s Park opens to the public. historic Limerick, where Viking warriors two consecutive and Anglo-Norman royalty once set foot. 1919- Limerick’s self declared ‘Soviet’ days allows great lasts for 12 days in April. flexibility A treasure trove 1942- Shannon Airport begins to  The company can provide private operate. of history and customised tours of Limerick as well as international language tours on request. 1972- First enrolment of students in folklore awaits The tour fares are: €12 for adults; €8 Limerick’s National Institute for Higher “A treasure trove of history and for senior citizens/students; €5 for kids Education (NIHE), which later becomes folklore awaits, along with striking under 12 (under fives are free) and a the University of Limerick in 1989. views of the city, on this self styled “fun family ticket (two adults/two under 12s) and educational tour”. is €25. 1979- Pope John Paul II visits Limerick. 1981- The Belltable Arts Centre is established.

1998- US President, Bill Clinton, visits Limerick.

2010- Limerick hosts the Special Did You Know? Olympics Ireland Games Living Bridge 2011- Limerick is designated as The University of Limerick has one of the longest footbridges European City of Sport in Europe, called the Living Bridge. The bridge connects two sections of the sprawling campus in Plassey. The bridge, which is 2014- Limerick City is the first Irish city lit up by night, was designed by acclaimed London architecture to be national City of Culture. firm, Wilkinson Eyre Architects.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 35 Limerick Guide Activities

Atlantic Airventure Shannon Flight Sim Centre Intersection of Link Road & Airport Rd. Shannon, Co. Clare 061-363687 www.atlanticairventure.com

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying a plane, Atlantic Airventure offers the best thing short of taking to the skies. Atlantic Airventure provides family friendly recreational and educational programmes for individuals and schools - suitable from age eight on. Far from mere video game graphics, this is a practical, hands-on environment. The fixed base B737 NG simulator, built Atlantic Airventure from a real aircraft, is the ideal set-up for armchair pilots of all ages to experience flight. The simulator is incredibly vouchers are available too and can also (combining the light airplane simulators realistic as it retains many original be purchased online. and museum) as well as the opportunity Boeing parts. Atlantic Airventure runs the Ace to host your birthday party in the centre. No experience is needed to fly in it Aviation summer camp and academy You can learn how aircraft fly and then and the instructors - which stay with you for budding future pilots. The centre test out those theories during a simulated for the duration - are all experienced also has an aviation museum with a air race around New York! pilots who will give you a true insight grand collection of display aircraft like Atlantic Airventure is open Monday into the world of flying. The B737 NG a De Havilland Venom Jet, a Cessna to Saturday 10am-5pm and booking is simulator can be used for corporate Skymaster and even a Spitfire cockpit. advisable. events and teambuilding days; gift There are family activity packages

Cocktails, Kayaks & More

If by any chance, the pursuits outlined If you want to play at being a ‘Whiskey Bible’ lists all the whiskeys in this section don’t tickle your fancy, mixologist and learn to make your with tasting notes (www.flannerysbar.ie). there are always alternatives. own cocktails, there are several places The Wine Buff runs wine tasting If you’re a horseracing enthusiast, in Limerick that offer classes in this sessions (and can arrange them on Limerick Racecourse has various area. The George Boutique Hotel request). More information at www. meetings all year round. The facility in runs cocktail making classes (www. thewinebuff.com/shops/limerick. The Patrickswell typically has twilight races thegeorgeboutiquehotel.com). The exclusive hotel and spa, No. 1 Pery in summer with bands and barbeques Boutique Hotel, in conjunction with The Square also has occasional wine tasting and the extremely popular Christmas Old Quarter Gastro Bar, offers cocktail (www.oneperysquare.com). Racing Festival brings festive cheer to master classes (www.theboutique.ie). Recipe 4 Success holds a range of many a punter, with numerous meetings If whiskey is more your drink, cookery classes (www.recipe4success. in between. More information on www. Michael Flannery’s Bar runs Whiskey ie). Food writer and blogger, Valerie limerickraces.ie. Tasting sessions and is a recommended O’Connor offers a tour of local foodie A Limerick City Kayaking Tour offers stop-off on the Ireland Whiskey Trail. heaven with her unique food trail (www. a chance to see the sights while paddling The pub has over 120 different Irish facebook.com/limerickfoodtrails). on the mighty River Shannon (www. whiskeys, making its collection one nevsailwatersports.com). of the largest in the country and its

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private suites, while enjoying panoramic There are two bars. The Mezz A Night at the Dogs views of the racing action. Each suite Bar—so-called because it is located on Limerick Greyhound Stadium, offers private dining for up to 44 the mezzanine level –provides a more Greenpark, Dock Road people with private bar and Tote betting relaxed and informal racing experience. 1890-269969 facilities. There are restaurant packages The Markets Field Bar on the ground Stadium Direct: 061-448000 available as well as finger food and floor is a nod to the former home of www.limerickgreyhoundstadium.ie combo package deals, starting from Limerick greyhound racing from 1932 €10 per person. There is also a fast food to 2010. The bar is decorated with Limerick is top dog when it comes to facility on site. photographs harking back to the times sporting spectacle and proof of this is the gone by. crowds attracted by the state of the art Tote booths are strategically placed Greyhound Racing Stadium. There has never throughout the stadium. There is ample Limerick has a new state of the art been a better parking available with 450 spaces. The stadium, which opened four years ago, Limerick Greyhound Stadium website and a night at the dogs provides live, time to ‘go to the has special deals of the month. There adrenaline pumped entertainment. “ dogs’ has never been a better time to ‘go to Located on the Dock Road, just five the dogs’. minutes by car from the city centre, the stadium is based on the site of a former horseracing course. Top class facilities ensure it is comfortable to watch the action from inside and out. The capacity is 2,000 so excited crowds guarantee a great atmosphere. There are regular 11 card meetings on Friday and Saturday nights. Gates open at 6.30pm; the first race is at 7.45pm and the last race is approx. 10.30pm. All sorts of special events are catered for too such as functions, fundraisers, team nights, corporate nights, hen/stag parties and much more. The friendly sales team on 1890-269969 are on hand to discuss all requirements. The outdoor viewing area is floodlit and sheltered from the elements. The hospitality facilities are also exceptional. People can dine in The Leger restaurant, Limerick Greyhound Stadium which seats 180 or in one of the two

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Sport really floats Limerick’s boat!

ot only has the Treaty City Limerick’ instead of a traditional From the ‘Red produced a large number of sponsor. This is a non-commercial entity Army’ to the great sports people but also that aims to capture “all that is good and has a reputation for excellent positive about Limerick sport”. ‘Super Blues’ to facilities and resounding support. Sport Nis so prevalent that Limerick had the The logo is carried by several other the green and honour of being the European City of teams and bodies and available to white of GAA, Sport for 2011. Not bad for the third everyone. This initiative is strongly Limerick is famous largest city in a small nation like Ireland! supported by millionaire businessman, JP McManus. McManus is a lifelong for its sporting Sport is woven into the fabric of the GAA fan and there are many more like prowess. city. Rugby, hurling, Gaelic football him who turn out in their thousands and soccer are the most popular sports for home games in the Gaelic Grounds around the city with teams from during GAA season. The Gaelic Grounds schoolchildren right up to senior levels. is the largest capacity stadium in the city Cricket, boxing, basketball, tennis, golf, at nearly 50,000. handball, athletics and more are also played. With the river Shannon such a Both the men’s and ladies’ teams have prominent feature, it is no wonder that done their county proud many times. rowing is another widespread pursuit. In 2014, the Limerick Senior Hurling team made it to the semi-final of the All Munster Rugby has a huge presence Ireland Championship, while the Minor but club rugby in city and county has team won the Munster title. In 2013, enjoyed a lot of success too, with many the Limerick Senior and Minor teams players rising through the ranks to won their respective Munster titles and represent province and country. both made it to the semi-final of the All Ireland. The senior team has won Limerick GAA is another giant on the around 18 provincial, seven All Ireland sporting landscape. The Shannonsiders’ championships and 38 other honours jerseys bear the legend ‘Sporting between all levels and competitions.

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A reputation for excellent facilities and “ resounding support

the first Irishman to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Mark Quinn was the youngest Irishman to summit Mount Everest. During an illustrious climbing career, in which he won accolades for heroism, Ger McDonnell was the first In camogie (ladies’ hurling), the county Limerick has hosted many large Irishman to reach the top of K2. He died team has won honours in various sporting events. These have included in a tragic accident on his descent. categories at national level. Limerick’s the 2010 and 2014 Special Olympics Intermediate camogie team won the Ireland Games; the World Rugby 7s Limerick people have excelled in many 2014 All Ireland. 2014; the All-Ireland Corporate Games; other sporting endeavours. Boxers, the 2008 and 2009 Irish Open Golf Andy Lee and Willie Casey, contested In Gaelic football, the senior team has Championships; the JP McManus many a fight for European and World won two All Ireland championships Pro-Am; the European Duathlon titles. Limerick physical therapist, Ger and 12 other honours. The local club Championships and The World Hartmann treats many world-class championships are fiercely contested, as Powerlifting Championships. athletes. Tennis player, Conor Niland, are the schools competitions. For fixtures played at Wimbledon in 2011. Just a few and information, see www.limerickgaa.ie. of Limerick’s sports personalities include The motto of the many rugby stars like Peter Clohessy Limerick also has a proud tradition of  and Paul O’Connell; Olympic rower soccer. There are hundreds of local teams Munster Rugby Sam Lynch; GAA legends, Mick Mackey playing, from the schoolboy league team is “To and Ciarán Carey; International soccer upwards. Limerick FC is currently in the “ player, Al Finucane and Transplant first division of the League of Ireland. the brave and Games medal-winner, John Loftus. It has a rich history, winning several faithful, nothing regional and Irish titles; competing in With thousands of Limerick’s young European competitions six times. Its is impossible people participating in sports regularly, home games are now played at Thomond its heritage will live on for a long while Park but its historical home at Market’s The motto of the Munster Rugby team yet. ‘Sporting Limerick’ will continue to Field is due for a major refurbishment is “To the brave and faithful, nothing is draw the crowds to behold its success. in the coming years. Fixtures and impossible” and Limerick natives have information are on www.limerickfc.ie. taken that to heart, taking on amazing Its stellar reputation has meant that tasks of endurance. Sean McGowan was

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The Rugby Capital

In Limerick, rugby union is less a In the late nineties and early 2000s, The popularity of women’s rugby is also past-time and more a passion, which Munster reached the finals of the on the rise and Limerick women have has endured for over 130 years. European Cup twice only to be often been fixtures on Ireland and Lions disappointed. After numerous daring squads. Joy Neville from the city is For a relatively small city, Limerick attempts, Munster won the prestigious considered one of the greats of the game. punches well above its weight in terms cup in 2006 and again in 2008. of the quality of its club rugby teams and Local secondary schools like Crescent has produced countless fine players for Giant screens broadcasted these finals College Comprehensive, St Munchin’s the professional and international field live to thousands of people in the city College and Ardscoil Rís have also of play. centre. This was in addition to thousands enjoyed much success in junior and of fans who attended the games, so senior provincial competitions. The sport is played widely in city and Munster is famous for its fervent county, at all levels from schoolchildren supporters as well as its winning ways. Renowned rugby players from Limerick up to the provincial team, Munster. Munster also competes in the Pro-12 include Colm Tucker, Tom Clifford, league—with teams from Scotland, Mick English, Gerry McLoughlin, Peter Where rugby elsewhere has an image Wales and Italy—and has also won that Clohessy, Paul Wallace, Anthony Foley of being somewhat a sport for the elite, three times. (currently the Munster coach), John rugby has traditionally cut across all Hayes, Paul O’Connell, Eoin Reddan, classes in Munster. With a band of Marcus Horan, David Wallace, Jerry supporters known as ‘The Red Army’, Munster Rugby Flannery, Conor Murray and Keith Munster has been a fixture in Limerick is bolstered in Earls….the list goes on! since 1879, based at Thomond Park Stadium (the team also plays games at part by strong The Pig’n’Porter, the largest tag rugby Musgrave Park in Cork). “ Limerick club festival in the world, is held in Limerick every July and in 2014, Thomond Park The city is often ‘painted red’ with sides hosted the World Rugby 7s competition. everything from flags to shop fronts for matches because of the proud tradition Munster Rugby is bolstered in part by The love of rugby in Limerick has of the sport. strong Limerick club sides. Since the spawned many texts. Alone it Stands by All Ireland League started, it has been local playwright, John Breen has toured Its striking motto is: “To the brave dominated by teams from the city. Three nationally and abroad. The play is about and faithful, nothing is impossible”. clubs, Shannon, Garryowen and Young Munster’s win against the All Blacks in This adage has held strong over the Munster have won the competition 13 1978. The current editor of The Limerick years. Even before rugby turned into a times between them. Other prominent Leader newspaper, Alan English, professional sport in Ireland, Munster Limerick clubs are Old Crescent, UL has written two bestselling books on had beaten several international touring Bohemians, St Mary’s, Thomond, Munster Rugby including Stand Up sides including Australia and New Richmond and Bruff. and Fight: When Munster Beat the All Zealand. Blacks.

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For sporty types and fitness fanatics, Delta Sports Dome offers a range of active pursuits like pitch/court rental, a fully equipped gym, fitness classes and more. Delta Sports Dome offers Astroturf pitches and tennis and badminton courts for rent for fun or training. Sports that can be played here include soccer, Gaelic Games, rugby, wheelchair sports, tennis, table tennis and badminton.

Boasts Ireland’s first and only Altitude Gym “Delta boasts Ireland’s first and only Altitude Gym—a sealed room that Thomond Park Experience reduces oxygen for many benefits. There is a busy schedule of classes in spin, Zone Plaza, a dedicated Family Fun circuit training, Bikram yoga, pilates, Thomond Park Zone area, a revamp of the Guinness pre and post natal pilates as well as yoga Dug Out Bar and upgraded food and for parent & baby. Personal training is Experience beverage facilities—all adding to the offered too. Individual, group and squad 061-421100 ultimate match-day experience. rates are available on request for all www.thomondpark.ie The stadium also includes a first class services. Limerick has often been referred to as range of conference and banqueting Limerick Sports Injury Clinic (www. the spiritual home of Irish rugby and part facilities. It can host conferences, gala limericksportsinjuryclinic.ie) is also of that is due to the fearsome reputation dinners, exhibitions, weddings and all based here. of the provincial team, Munster Rugby, types of functions, large and small. There are meeting rooms and kids’ and their base at the mighty Thomond For more information, email info@ birthday bashes—soccer or pop star Park Stadium. thomondpark.ie. For fixtures/match parties—at the sports dome are quite Munster Rugby has grown into a tickets, see www.munsterrugby.ie. popular, as are school outings to the global brand since the sport of rugby facility. turned professional. The humble Delta Sports Dome runs sports/ provincial pitch was transformed into a activity camps for children aged four to world-class stadium in 2008. Holding Delta Sports Dome 12 over the school holiday periods i.e. nearly 27,000 on match days, the venue Delta Retail Park, Ballysimon Road Easter and Summer. is famed for its unique atmosphere for 061-444455 Opening hours are: Monday-Friday, games and events such as concerts with www.deltasportsdome.ie 6am-11pm and Saturday/Sunday, 9am- the likes of Bruce Springsteen and Elton 6pm. John. For an opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the players themselves, there is a stadium tour available, which gives visitors unprecedented ‘back stage’ access. Visitors can see the home and away dressing rooms, press conference areas, the Munster dug-out and walk down the tunnel to stand on the hallowed pitch. The tour also includes a visit to the Munster Experience museum. The history of Munster and Thomond Park is outlined with lots of memorabilia and interactive/ multimedia exhibits that allow you to practice your line-out skills, among other things. The museum and stadium tour is open on a daily basis (groups can be catered for too). Delta Sports Dome The newest additions include a Fan

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and shop is here to give you the best mountain bike experience of your life. Established in 2007 by Chris O’Callaghan and Liam Sheedy, both keen mountain bikers, Trailriders provides a number of services.

Trailriders offers courses and workshops on “ mountain bike skills It has the exclusive permit from Coillte to operate the Coillte Mountain Bike Trail in the Ballyhoura region—the Boskill Equestrian Centre largest network of its kind in Ireland. Both Chris and Liam offer the best cross-country ride-outs, which people advice on the five looped trails in the Boskill Equestrian can sign up for. area, to suit your individual needs. You The Ryan family brings generations can also rent bikes and equipment here Centre of experience in breeding, training at reasonable rates and the Trailriders Caherconlish, Co. Limerick and horse riding to the centre. Safety, shop sells both as well. Servicing and 085-7673468 learning and fun are the priorities at maintenance are available too. www.limerickhorseriding.com Boskill Equestrian Centre and that’s If you want to learn more about In the scenic setting of Caherconlish in straight from the horse’s mouth. mountain biking and maintenance, east Limerick, this family-run facility Trailriders offers courses and offers horse-riding lessons, trekking and workshops on mountain bike skills from much more. MBLA qualified staff—a recognised The AIRE approved centre and livery qualification by Scottish Cycling, British yard has an excellent selection of horses Ballyhoura Trailriders Cycling and Cycling Ireland for trail and ponies—chosen specifically for Ardpatrick, Co. Limerick centres in remote mountain regions. their good temperaments—for pleasure 087-2717330 These instructors also offer summer riding, showjumping, cross country and www.trailriders.ie camps for kids. trekking all year round. Trailriders opens from Tuesday Lessons are available for absolute Based at the trailhead of the stunning to Sunday, 9am-6pm (2015 summer beginners, experienced riders and 92km Ballyhoura Bike Trail in opening hours are due to change; ring everything in between, delivered by Ardpatrick, Trailriders bike rental for details). highly qualified instructors. Boskill caters for children from age four up to adults.

Boskill caters for children from age four up to “ adults The centre offers an all weather, outdoor arena, clipping, livery and ample hacking. Specialist equine assisted learning and therapy are available too. Boskill runs a Saddle Club on Saturdays, summer camps for kids (no experience required) and holiday packages for teenagers/young riders who want to improve their English skills as well as improve their riding and Ballyhoura Trailriders knowledge of horses. There are regular

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Clonlara Equestrian Centre

country; want to see the countryside Clonlara Equestrian Host main from horseback; want somewhere  pleasant to stable your horse; want to Centre events across all buy a horse or are part of an equine Clonlara, Co. Clare organisation looking for an excellent, 061-354172/087-6892373 disciplines such high quality competition venue, Clonlara www.clonlaraequestrian.com “ as showjumping, Equestrian Centre is the place for you. Clonlara Equestrian Centre is nestled in dressage and The highly trained staff offers a the scenic countryside of east Clare just variety of lessons for adults and children five miles from Limerick City. cross-country of all levels, either private one to one or The centre boasts an international At Clonlara, they host main in a group. They also run summer camps size indoor arena and both outdoor and events across all disciplines such as through the school holidays and can dressage arenas. They offer cross- showjumping, dressage and cross- cater for children with special needs. country riding too, with plentiful country. Whether you’re a competition Check them out on Facebook www. trekking options through the farm and or leisure rider looking to improve your facebook.com/clonlara.equestriancentre. local countryside. skills in showjumping, dressage or cross-

Did You Know? While just 13, he took part in the Jacobite defense of Limerick as a Lieutenant. His Opera Star Jack the Ripper family was forced to flee to France when World famous 19th century opera singer, The last victim of notorious and Williamite forces won. He served with Catherine Hayes, hailed from Limerick. It unidentified serial killer, Jack the Ripper, the Austrian army before going to Russia. is disputed whether she was born in 1818 was allegedly from Limerick. The fifth and During a 50 year military career, he or 1825 but what is known is that she lived last victim on the killer’s spree in London, claimed to have been present at over 30 at 4 Patrick Street in the city. Edmund Mary Jane Kelly, was murdered in 1888 campaigns, 18 battles, and 18 sieges. Knox, a COI Bishop of Limerick, noted at age 25. According to Joseph Barnett, her talent and funds were raised for her the man she had most recently lived to study in Dublin with her first singing with before her death, Ms Kelly said she Musical Twin teacher. After studying further in Italy, was born in Limerick, location unknown, she began to perform all over Europe and around 1863 and her family moved to Renowned electronic musician and later, in North and South America, Asia Wales when she was young. composer Richard D. James, also known as and Australia. It is said that in her day, Aphex Twin, was born in Limerick in 1971. she was the 19th-century equivalent of James grew up in Cornwall in the UK. He a globally renowned pop star today. She has released six studio albums, the latest died in 1861 in Kent. ‘The Opera Centre’, a The Russian Connection of which is Syro, and a number of EPs. proposed but unrealised shopping centre In the 17th century, a Limerickman was The Guardian newspaper described him development taking in her former home one of the most successful Russian as “the most inventive and influential on Patrick Street was named as such in imperial commanders of the time. Count figure in contemporary electronic music”. reference to Hayes. Peter von Lacy (as he later became known) FACT Magazine called his album, Selected was born Pierce De Lacy in 1678 in Killeedy Ambient Works 85-92, the best album of in west Limerick into a noble family. the 1990s.

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an inscribed stone beside the 14th green. Also adjacent to this green, are the ruins of the Franciscan Friary built in 1464. The Roman Catholics have a dawn mass on Easter Sunday, complete with a bonfire, with breakfast in the clubhouse afterwards. Imposing 13th century Desmond castle “ also adorns the course The imposing 13th century Desmond castle also adorns the course and the green for the 15th hole and tee box for the 3rd hole are close to this. When Adare Manor Golf Club playing the 18th hole, an old graveyard and ruined church come into sight. This Ben Sayers on the request of the then ancient burial ground is still used and Adare Manor Golf Club Earl of Dunraven. Eddie Hackett was has been known to hold up play on the Limerick Road, Adare, Co. Limerick responsible for the conversion of the 13th tee. 061-396204 course to 18 holes in 1991. The presence of mature trees demands www.adaremanorgolfclub.com The course is very unique. It is accurate shots from tee to green reputed to be the only one in the world throughout and is a true test for any Close to the prettiest village in Ireland, to suspend play to allow two religious golfer. golf has been played for well over 100 ceremonies each year. The Methodists The restaurant is committed to years over these pleasant parklands at hold a meeting by the spot that founder, perform to the highest standards. A Adare Manor Golf Club. John Wesley, preached to the people of friendly welcome is guaranteed to all The nine-hole course was laid out by Adare in 1756. This place is marked by visitors.

Club has won 12 national titles. The club Tiger Woods have played here. Limerick Golf Club hosted the JP McManus Invitational Pro- The state of the art clubhouse allows Rosbrien, Ballyclough, Co. Limerick Am—the largest pro-am event of its type golfers to unwind with refreshments 061-415146 in Europe—three times from 1990 to after a game. Visitors are always www.limerickgolfclub.ie 2000. Professionals like Walter Hagen, welcome to Limerick Golf Club. Pádraig Harrington, Mark O’Meara and Limerick Golf Club is situated on the outskirts of Limerick City and has the honour of being one of the oldest golf clubs in Ireland, founded in 1891. Based on the one-time site of Roxboro Castle and grounds, the Par 72 mature parkland course presents many challenges to beginners and experienced golfers alike. Hosted the JP McManus Invitational Pro- “ Am Dr. Alister McKenzie, the architect of eminent courses like Lahinch and Augusta National, designed several of the holes on the course. Limerick Golf Club With 1,300 members, Limerick Golf

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or a seasoned golfer, Ballyneety Golf Club will ensure an entertaining round. After the golf, players can relax in the state of the art clubhouse with refreshments in the Vines Grill and Wine Bar/Restaurant. The expanse of glass and elevated location of the clubhouse offers great views over the 18th green. Boasts sand- based greens and tees, built “ to US PGA standards Also on-site, there is a pro-shop and if you want to learn from scratch or brush up on your skills, the McSweeney Golf Academy provides a full range of Ballyneety Golf Club services. This golf centre of excellence is under the stewardship of Donal Opened in 1994, the 183 acre course McSweeney, PGA Head Professional. Ballyneety Golf Club was co-designed by Ryder Cup player Visitors are always welcome to Ballyneety, Co. Limerick and 2014 Ryder Cup Vice Captain, Des Ballyneety Golf Club. The greens fees 061-351881 Smyth and Irish amateur international, are exceptional value at €25 Monday- www.ballyneetygolfclub.com Declan Branigan. Friday and €30 at weekends/bank Recently refurbished, it boasts sand- holidays. From November to March, This excellent 18 hole, parkland course based greens and tees, built to US PGA winter green fees also are on offer, as is set among “rolling hills and a feast of standards, with panoramic views of the the course may have limited tee times/ green” just under 10 kilometres south of county and the hills of Clare. holes available. Tee-times can be booked Limerick City. Whether you’re an absolute beginner online.

as well as in Charleville in north Cork Golf in Limerick and Shannon, Ennis and Dromoland in Clare. Golf is a passion in the mid-west and If you fancy some stunning coastal aside from those profiled here, there are scenery to accompany your game many other fine courses to be found in you can find fantastic links courses Limerick and in nearby counties. in Lahinch and Doonbeg in Clare and In city suburbs, you can find well Ballybunion in Kerry. maintained parkland courses at the If you wish to perfect your short municipal course in Rathbane Golf Club game, UniGolf in Castletroy or and another at Castletroy Golf Club. Monaleen Pitch & Putt will have you There are also a number of parkland putting like a pro while the driving range courses a short distance away in County in Coonagh or Ballyneety are a great

Photo:Rihardzz Limerick at Adare (Adare Golf Club is place to work on strategies to hit the located at Adare Manor Hotel & Golf fairway every time. Did You Know? Resort), Newcastle West and Abbeyfeale Born In Limerick The current President of Ireland, Michael D. Higgins, was born in Limerick in 1941. A Labour Party member, he has also served as a Senator, a TD and as Minister for the Arts, Culture and the Gaeltacht in his political career. He is also a poet, author, broadcaster and human rights campaigner of note.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 45 Limerick Guide Activities

Family Fun! There is plenty for families and children your feet on the ground with flight In good weather, then a trip to either of all ages to see and do in Limerick simulation at Atlantic Airventure (061- Buttercup Farm (061-397556) and whatever the weather or location. From 363687) in Shannon. Stonehall Visitor Farm (061-393940) tiny tots to teens, there are activities to For an exhilarating rush, go-karting is is a must. You can get up and close with suit everyone. an exciting option. Make sure and check a whole host of animals, from goats to For a swim, you can pay a visit to suitability for younger children. Rev up llamas; sheep to owls. There are picnic a number of facilities. Grove Island at the National Kart Centre (061- areas and other activities on site too. The Leisure Centre (061-350221) has a 340161), Delta Karting (061-603603) city and county are filled with free parks 25 metre swimming pool and two kids’ or Kilcornan Karting (061-393733). and playgrounds too. pools. The 50m swimming pool at the For older kids and teens, Funworld Sports Arena in the University of (061-325088) offers bowling, pool tables Limerick (061-213555) also makes for You can get up and arcade games. The Victoria Club happy splashing. Both the UL Arena and and close with (061-311255) has lots of tables for avid Grove Island have gyms too and UL has pool players. a multitude of other sporting facilities a whole host of Horseriding and trekking are very like running tracks, tennis courts and “ animals family friendly activities and Limerick sports fields. and its environs have several equestrian If you want to play at being Tiger Rain needn’t put a dampener on plans centres. There are also many child- Woods, try your hand at Monaleen because there are several great indoor oriented tours and activities at many of Pitch & Putt (087-6954839); Adare activity centres offering a vast array of the city’s heritage and cultural outlets. Pitch & Putt (087-6963420) or Unigolf fun forays for kids from age 0 up. From For more ideas on family activities, (061-633300). imaginative play to super energetic this guide has lots of information For something a little different, why physical play, these facilities have it all. features in this section and others. not try some roller skating at Rollerjam They include Tons of Fun (061- For even more suggestions, see www. (061-422500) or rock climbing at the 431141); Delta Lazer & Adventure limerick.ie. Nevsail indoor rock climbing wall Centre (061-423994) and Formula for (086-3308236)? Take to the skies with Fun (061-603200).

46 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Activities Tons Of Fun Children’s drinks, snacks, hot food, ice creams and smoothies. Activity Centre The warm and friendly atmosphere Unit H1, Eastway Business Park, makes Tons of Fun a popular venue Ballysimon Road for birthday parties, school tours and 061-431141 corporate kids events. www.tonsoffun.ie Parent & Toddler sessions for pre- Safe, clean and secure, Tons of Fun schoolers run every weekday morning provides a fun-filled soft play and between 10am-1pm during school term adventure experience for children aged time. between 0-10 years. Two areas are dedicated to babies and A popular venue wobblers, with a roundabout, ball pool,  assorted soft toys, ball jugglers, and ball for birthday lifters. The Junior Play area for 3-5 year parties, school olds is on two levels, with double wavy “ slides, ball pool and climbing maze. tours and For the over fives, there is a three-level corporate kids adventure maze, with overhead crawling nets and runways, wavy and tubular events slides. Opening hours are Monday to Tons Of Fun Children’s Activity Centre Other amenities include a giant lego Saturday, 10am-6pm and 11am-6pm area, soccer and basketball pitch, mini Sundays and Bank Holidays. Admission trampolines, and a quiet playhouse area. for 90 minutes play is €7.50, €5.50 for Tons of Fun also operates a Party While the children are busy at play, under 3s, with discounts for families, Shop on site, selling a wide variety of adults can relax in the comfortable groups, and children with special needs. helium balloons and accessories for all seating areas and avail of magazines, Babies under 1 or not walking are free occasions. Plenty of free car parking is newspapers and free Wi-Fi. The coffee of charge. available outside the building. shop offers a range of hot and cold

The massive 55,000 square foot For parents, The Jolly Roger Café Delta Lazer & facility has all sorts of attractions. offers a variety of hot meals (including Indoor activities include a soccer pitch, children’s meals with toys), snacks, Adventure Centre bungee trampolines, zorb balls, slides, drinks, gourmet coffee and free Wi-Fi. Building 4, Unit 1 Delta Retail Park, climbing frames and much more. The Ballysimon Road newest addition is an exciting Lazer Tag 061-423994 experience for children aged seven and Party packages www.adventurecity.ie  over. are a specialty With a huge range of indoor and outdoor Outside, little ones can climb aboard activities, Delta Lazer & Adventure the pirate ship, kick about on the here Centre provides an action-packed few Astroturf pitch and clamber up one of “Party packages are a specialty here hours out for kids. the many climbing frames. and can be tailored to suit individual needs. There are parent and toddler mornings—with organised activities/ supervised games—every Tuesday and Thursday morning from 10am-12noon during the school term. Parents can enjoy a complimentary tea/coffee and social atmosphere. Safety and fun are the priorities here with the staff team members, who will help in any way they can. Delta Lazer & Adventure Centre opens Monday-Saturday, 10am-6pm; Sundays and Bank Holidays, 11am-6pm and early/late bookings are available by appointment. The admission rate (for 90 minutes of play) is: Ages five to 12, €8; Ages one to four, €5 and infants under 12 months, €3. Delta Lazer & Adventure Centre

The Best Of Ireland Series | 47 Limerick Guide Activities

Offering a comfortable viewing area, Delta Karting offer a professionally Delta Karting with a pool table, for relaxing or to have run Grand Prix, the only karting centre Delta Retail Park, Ballysimon Road refreshments after the racing, it will be in Limerick to offer this, with practice 061-603603 hard to leave. laps, lap heats, quarter finals, semi-finals www.facebook.com/deltakarting The facility runs regular deals and and finals, feel like a real Formula racer promotions, which are available on when collecting your trophy on the Imagine yourself as the next Formula 1 the Facebook page. With summer, podium! superstar with an adrenaline-filled few Halloween and Easter camps run over Delta Karting opens Monday- hours at Delta Karting. the year, Delta Karting offers the perfect Saturday, 11am-9pm and Sunday, Limerick’s premier all weather karting high-speed adventure when on holidays 11-7pm. facility boasts two top class tracks— with the kids. designed by rally drivers. The tracks incorporate banked corners, tunnels and overpasses. You can enjoy all this while racing along at 65 kilometres per hour and sitting just two inches off the ground. Delta Karting is an ideal high-octane and fun activity for individuals as well as for groups of family, friends, clubs and birthday parties. It is also the perfect activity for team-building and corporate gatherings. All weather karting facility boasts two top “ class tracks Delta Karting Fun and Learning for all at Libraries Limerick’s public libraries are a cultural hub for young and old. The libraries have dedicated child- friendly sections where parents can sit and read with kids or take part in various storytelling, craft and educational workshops held throughout the year (most notably during school holidays). Best of all, you don’t need to be a member to participate in any of the events! Besides holding vast book collections on every possible topic, the libraries have local studies archives, community information, community rooms and exhibition spaces. The three main city libraries include Limerick City Library (061-407510) on Michael Street, Watch House Cross Library (061-457726) in Moyross and find smaller libraries in Newcastle West, Limerick also has lots of bookshops the Limerick County Library (061- Adare, Abbeyfeale, Kilmallock and across city and county where you will 496860) in Dooradoyle. You can also Foynes. find exactly what you want.

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3D House First Floor, Arthurs Quay Shopping Centre 087-2663350 www.3dhouse.ie

Combining virtual reality effects, movable chairs and 3D cinema picture quality, 3D House offers an unforgettable cinematic experience for those seeking something different. The theatre provides viewers with the chance to immerse themselves in virtual reality through a 5D environment, which is in synchronisation with the movie story. 3D House Moviegoers  range of special environmental effects— time and space. literally fall triggering the senses and physically 3D House also offers gamers a chance drawing customers into the plot. to experience astounding game graphics forward and Moviegoers literally fall forward and realism on its games simulator, “ backward, drift, and backward, drift, dive, rise, descent, which offers a triple screen with total turn and vibrate as the movie drama resolution of 5760 x 1080 pixels, which dive, rise intensifies, while effects such as can be seen through the lenses of 3D The 5D cinema generates special smoke, rain, lightening, air bubbles, glasses and felt through a dynamic effects based on specific movie scenes snowflakes and storms allow customers motion seat simulating engine vibration. with its unique chair seat system and to experience the feeling of transcending

Limerick Cinemas The people of Limerick have a great love of cinema. Since 1922, Limerick has been home to over 12 cinemas, a few of which doubled as dance halls and concert venues.

There are now three cinemas left in Limerick but the Odeon Cinema at Castletroy Shopping Centre, the Omniplex Cinema at the Crescent Shopping Centre and Showtime Cinema on the Ennis Road, have multiple screens showing everything from the latest Did You Know? blockbuster to indie smash hit, not to forget to the 3D effects! Irish Coffee Irish coffee, a brew infused with These cinemas offer all the comforts of native whiskey, was invented in modern theatres, with big comfy seats, Limerick town, Foynes, in 1943. warm popcorn and a range of drinks and Chef, Joe Sheridan - who worked snacks. A trip to the cinema is the perfect in the seaplane terminal there - devised it to warm some way to while away a wet day or as a passengers up one chilly night. family outing, the only question is: What Today, there is a festival in do you want to see? the village on the June Bank Holiday weekend to celebrate the birth of this unique treat.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 49 Limerick Guide Activities

Parks and Playgrounds

aturalist John Muir said memorial for Thomas Spring Rice, MP “everybody needs beauty to Limerick city in the 19th century. as well as bread, places to More recent additions to the park play in and pray in, where include a children’s playground. nature may heal and give strength to The park has a large selection of Nbody and soul” and there are plenty of mature, deciduous and evergreen trees parks around Limerick where you can such as ash, beech, elm, flowering take a break and recharge in the quiet cherry, hawthorn, lime, maple, oak, of a well-maintained park, away from poplar and willow as well as a beautiful the hustle and bustle. Read on to learn array of flowers. about the local parks to discover. The People’s Park won the Best Local People’s Park Park Special Category Award in 2003. People’s Park Located at the heart of Georgian Quarter, Arthur’s Quay Park the People’s Park in Pery Square was By the banks of the River Shannon, formally opened in 1877, and gifted to opposite the Arthur’s Quay Shopping the people of Limerick City in memory Centre is Arthur’s Quay Park. Populated of Richard Russell, a prominent local by lime trees that surround a central businessman. plaza, the park has spectacular views of People’s Park boasts a number of Curragour Falls and the Clare hills. The interesting items including two gazebos, park was opened in January 1991 by a 19th century bandstand and an ornate former president Mary Robinson. The drinking fountain - which was recently local Tourist Office can be found by the restored to its original glory. main entrance. In the middle of the park, there is a free-standing limestone column erected People’s Park in 1829 by the Barrington family as a

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People’s Park

Photo: Sean O’ Dwyer Robert Byrne Park Mount Kennett Skate Park

The Custom House Park marks the entrance to the delightful and cyclists, two soccer pitches and Behind the Hunt Museum, one can find O’Brien Park. Among the mature trees a children’s playground. It is located the Custom House Park. This riverside here you can find alder, birch, hornbeam, between Hassett’s Cross and Union park forms part of the riverside walk and mountain ash, ornamental pear and Cross. contains some beautiful specimens of whitebeam trees. There is also a park horse chestnut, London plane, maple and shelter and cast iron drinking fountain, Mount Kennett sycamore trees. as well as a small children’s playground, Skate Park which was updated in 2002. Skateboarding and roller sports are O’Brien Park quite popular in Limerick City and this On Clare Street, your eye will be drawn Robert Byrne Park riverside skate park caters to those needs. to the freestanding concrete gateway Previously known as the Curragour With smooth concrete, ramps and rails, with a classical triumphant arch that Park, the Robert Byrne Park is situated this is a great space to practice tricks on Clancy Strand. Sit beneath the lime and perfect your skating. The riverside trees and watch the river flow by or feed location provides excellent views of the the famous Shannon swans. adjacent bank and wildlife.

Russell Park There are also a variety of playgrounds Between the North Circular Road and in the suburbs and the county like Condell Road lies Russell Park, which is Castletroy, Adare, Abbeyfeale, Askeaton, popular with walkers and runners. The Ballingarry, Cappamore, Castleconnell, park is well known for a glorious host of Doon, Foynes, Glin, Kilfinane, daffodils that appears in the springtime. Kilmallock, Murroe, Newcastle West and Rathkeale. See www.limerick.ie for Shelbourne Park details. Reopened in 2009 following extensive renovations, Shelbourne Park has a Fun Day in People’s Park 710 metre looped walk for walkers

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Walking & Cycling in Limerick

alking and cycling around back along to Fanning’s Castle worked up an appetite. The underpass at are some of the best and Barrington’s Hospital on George’s Sarsfield Bridge will finish the loop. ways to get fit and Quay. the eight designated City Centre Slí na Sláinte walking routes and cycling trails are The Three Bridges Wthe perfect way to explore the sights, The 3.8km city centre Slí na Sláinte sounds and history of Limerick City. Riverside Loop (‘path of health’ as designed by the Irish This walk is similar to the medieval Heart Foundation) is best toured during Medieval Limerick walk but also takes in the beauty of daylight hours. The trail starts on the the Shannon River. The loop starts at newly pedestrianised Bedford Row. Walking Trail Arthur’s Quay travelling up towards The route goes down O’Connell Street, This 3km trail can take anywhere the Hunt Museum through Arthur’s passing the Augustinian Church on the between one and two hours to complete Quay Park and the Custom House Park. left, moving on to the Georgian Quarter, depending on how long you wish to Leaving King John’s Castle follow where you can visit the People’s Park. linger on the various sights. Starting Castle Street across the Thomond The route turns up onto Barrington Street at Merchant’s Quay with the Potato Bridge then turn left to see the Treaty and continues down O’Connell Avenue Market, County Courthouse, City Stone. The new riverfront boardwalk onto New Street. As you come around Hall and St. Mary’s Cathedral, the to Sarsfield Bridge provides excellent South Circular Road you will see Mary riverside and pavement walk takes you riverside views of the castle and City Immaculate College on the left. Continue past the remains of the medieval city Hall. Continue straight on to Clancy on to Henry Street to finish the loop at walls. Along the route you will see Strand where the ramp at St. Michael’s the bottom of Bedford Row. the Bishop’s Palace, now home to the Boat Club will take you to the Shannon Limerick Civic Trust, and St. Munchin’s Bridge. Coming across the bridge and on There are other Slí na Sláinte routes in Church. Crossing Thomond Bridge you to the quays, you will see the Seaman’s the county, including one in Adare. See will see King John’s Castle and the Bard and Dockers memorial, as well as a www.irishheart.ie for more information. of Thomond Statue. The walk loops few pubs and restaurants if you have

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Limerick Smarter Travel The eight Bike Share Limerick City has been designated a designated A bike sharing initiative has recently Smarter Travel Demonstration Area walking routes launched in Limerick City. Coca-Cola and as such there have been a range of “ Zero® Bikes is a self-service bike rental improvements aimed towards cyclists, and cycling service is open to all from 14 years such as bike lanes, installed across the trails are the up. There are 23 stations (215 bikes) city. Route 1 connects Corbally to the strategically located throughout the City Centre with a travel time of 10 perfect way urban area. Stations have a terminal minutes to cycle or 25 minutes to walk. to explore the and stands for the bikes—which are Route 2 takes in the Tow Path that was locked in and released when hired. On once part of the Grand Canal system. sights, sounds return, the bike is locked back into a This cycle route is flat and sheltered and history of stand at any station and hire is then from the wind and links UL to the city completed. Hire options include an centre. Limerick City annual subscription, a three-day pass Route 3 is a direct route for and a pay as you go option (first 30 commuters between UL and the City There are also plenty of cycling and minutes free). In all cases, a security Centre. Route 4 goes the same way but walking clubs in Limerick such as the deposit is required.The bikes can be avoids the hills along the Dublin road. Limerick Cycling Club, UL Mountain used for everything from commuting to Travel time is double that of Route Bike Club and Limerick Climbing Club. sightseeing. 3 but the ease of travel will appeal For more information on local clubs, to unseasoned cyclists. Route 5 links visit www.limerickcitysports.ie. More information on www.bikeshare.ie. South Hill to Roxboro Shopping Centre and Colbert Train Station. For more information on Limerick Smarter Travel, see www.limerick.ie/smartertravel/.

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Explore the Great Outdoors Limerick City offers shopping, to basketball (063-91161). Team in Caherconlish (085-7673468) and entertainment, sport, history, culture, challenges are a speciality! Clonshire Equestrian Centre in Adare family fun and more (outlined in this and For face-paced mountain biking, (061-396770). other sections of the guide) but it doesn’t the Ballyhoura area has over 90km Limerick has several great angling have to mean a break from outdoor of cross country trails where you can locations. Plassey and Annacotty (both and adventure activities. Both city and get muddy on forest road climbs, get close to the University of Limerick) are county boast a range of attractive sights high on the steep inclines and try to popular fishing spots, as is Castleconnell. and active pursuits to enjoy. keep steady on the tracks. Ballyhoura Bleach Lough, between Kildimo and Visitors can enjoy the mighty River Trailriders in Ardpatrick (087-2717330) Pallaskenry in county Limerick, is a Shannon in all its glory with a Limerick has the exclusive permit from Coillte trout fishery (087-1845736). Brown trout City Kayaking Tour from Nevsail to operate the Coillte Mountain Bike are also on the menu at Glasha Lake in Watersports & Rock Climbing (086- Trail here—the largest network of its Athea (068-42295). 3308236). Nevsail also has an indoor kind in Ireland—and provides bike Millbank House in Murroe (061- climbing wall in the city and also offers rental and other services too. Hiking 386115) has an angling centre on-site activities like sailing, stand up paddle- and orienteering are also popular in and is located close to sites for trout and boarding, windsurfing, coasteering, Ballyhoura. salmon fishing, course and game fishing. powerboating and outdoor rock climbing For lovers of all things equestrian, Celtic Angling (069-68202) offers at locations in Limerick and Clare. you can engage in horse-riding, guided angling tours around county Kilfinane Outdoor Education trekking and other variations at many Limerick and Kerry. Don’t forget to Centre in east Limerick has a range of sites including Clonlara Equestrian enquire about seasons and permits before indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy Centre in Clonlara (061-354172/087- casting your hook! from canoeing to orienteering, abseiling 6892373); Boskill Equestrian Centre To enjoy nature in all its glory,

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The Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland’s “ spectacular coastal driving route

Cratloe Woods (061-337322) just over forest has stands of mostly beech, distance by car. The Wild Atlantic Way the border in Clare overlooks the estuary ash, oak and Norway spruce trees. For is illustrated by signs bearing a symbol of the river Shannon and contains naturalists, try Aughinish Alumina with a blue background and a white walking/hiking trails, a picnic area and Nature Trail, a self-guided nature trail representation of waves. viewing points. A climb up Woodcock near Askeaton (061-604000). The area The pretty village of Foynes in Hill in the same parish offers spectacular offers observation areas, bird-watching, west Limerick is featured on the Wild views of Limerick and the surrounding wild fowl and butterfly sanctuaries. Atlantic Way. The Foynes Flying Boat countryside. & Maritime Museum (069-65416) The 777 acre Curragh Chase Forest explores the fascinating role played in Park in Kilcornan (061-337322) has Visitors can the establishment of passenger flights picturesque scenery, a multitude of enjoy the mighty across the Atlantic is superbly captured walkways and nature trails, a lake, in this museum. a playground, a picnic area and the River Shannon Limerick has very good rail and road remains of grand, Curragh Chase House. “ links for travelling to Clare, Kerry, Cork, There are a number of looped way The Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland’s Galway and even farther. The coast is marked trails in the park to suit all spectacular coastal driving route, which never far away—particularly in Clare visitors. They vary from the multi-access stretches 2,500 kilometres all the way and Kerry—and opens up a world of trails suitable for wheelchair users and along the west coast from Donegal to stunning sea views, days at the beach family walkers to the longer Curragh West Cork. Limerick’s close proximity to and activities like swimming and surfing. and Glenisca trails suitable for those both Shannon Airport and the coastline For more information see www. looking for more demanding walking means that you can access the route limerick.ie and www.wildatlanticway. and cycling. The large area of mixed from here by travelling a reasonable com.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 55 Limerick Guide Activities Drives Around Limerick Visitors should always be in the driving granary and mill. A short trip through Glens Walk. The road is the R506. seat when it comes to exploring with Hospital will bring you to the newly This looped walk through lush forest a number of fantastic routes around refurbished Lough Gur Heritage Centre alongside the clear rushing waterfalls County Limerick and beyond. Why not to learn about the neolithic people who of the river has some stunning natural load up the car with a picnic and take in once lived by the lake. scenery. the sights? Lough Derg Drive: Lough Derg is For more information on drives in the N69 Drive: This picturesque drive the largest lake on the Shannon and vicinity, see www.shannonregiontrails.ie. along the N69 offers a number of perhaps the most beautiful. Limerick is choices. Driving from the city, you only a short distance from Killaloe and can pass through towns like Clarina, Ballina where you can drive along the Kildimo, Kilcornan and Askeaton lake banks. Follow the M7, signposted before hugging the southern coastline Dublin before taking the exit for of the Shannon estuary heading towards Birdhill/Killaloe. If you want to head Foynes and Glin. Keep an eye out for towards Portumna, you can take in the estuary dolphins and see the Foynes Ogonnolloe, Scariff, Mountshannon and Flying Boat Museum and Glin Castle. many other pretty villages. You could continue along to Kerry or Clare Glens: You could take a short Killaloe take the ferry crossing at Tarbert, which trip to Murroe Village and the Clare will take you across to Clare where there are any number of attractions en route back to Limerick. Limerick Drive: Following the N21, your first stop is Adare, dubbed the prettiest village in Ireland. With so much to see and do here, you might be forgiven for lingering a while. Follow the signs along the country roads to Curraghchase Forest Park and then the R518 and N11 will bring you to Rathkeale and Newcastle West, both bustling interesting villages. Heading north on the N20 you will come to Adare Croom, noted for its restored riverside

Clare Glens

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If you have a passion for fashion or are picking up the ultimate gift, you can truly ‘shop ‘til you drop’ in Limerick. 5Shopping Heaven The Best Of Ireland Series | 57 Limerick Guide Shopping New Retail Vigour hether you are indulging This is just a brief outline of the main Catherine Duffy, Vice President in some retail therapy, highlights. A wander off the beaten track of Limerick Chamber and General searching for the perfect in Limerick is just as rewarding, with Manager, Northern Trust, explained souvenir or simply hidden treasures just waiting to be found. that “retail and hospitality are very window shopping, you’ll be spoiled for Some of Limerick’s county towns have important sectors for Limerick Chamber Wchoice in Limerick. lots to offer in terms of boutiques and members”. Limerick city centre is compact, crafts too. If the weather is hindering “The city centre has undergone many easy to navigate and boasts a range your shopping, there are a selection of changes over recent years including of big brands and independent stores. shopping centres including Arthur’s improvements to streets and public O’Connell Street has been the main Quay Shopping Centre and the Crescent spaces, such as a recently developed thoroughfare and backbone of the city Shopping Centre. boardwalk along the quays. Our city for centuries. It has a multitude of shops There is a huge collective effort centre parking offering is second to none from end to end as do pedestrianised locally to encourage visitors to explore and the recent launch of the Coca Cola streets like Bedford Row and Cruises and enjoy the city centre. Bikeshare initiative is another welcome Street. William Street also recently got a addition that will boost our urban living revamp and has lots of stores. Limerick and visiting experience. Limerick city The area around Thomas Street,  centre is an attractive place to relax, shop Catherine Street and Roches Street, is city centre is and socialise.” dubbed ‘The Fashion Quarter’ because compact, easy “From independent stores to large of an array of boutiques. The many cafés “ chains, there is a lot to choose from here offer a variety of places to have a to navigate and here. There has been an increase in the coffee or lunch. The Milk Market on boasts a range of number of new outlets setting up so the the weekends has grown into one of the offering is growing and improving all the best-known markets in Ireland and has big brands and time. In Limerick, we have a selection of all the charm of an outdoor market but is independent great shops, eateries, visitor attractions covered by a tensile roof. and places to stay as well as a packed stores calendar of festivals and events to

58 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Shopping New Retail Vigour Welcome offer. On behalf of Limerick Chamber: cleanliness of the city and there has been Welcome and enjoy!” lots of progress there. Thirdly, we strive Helen O’Donnell, Chairperson of to give people a good overall experience Limerick City Business Association, had so when people come in, they can this to add. park up and spend a day shopping and Catherine Duffy enjoying all the city has to offer and and socialise into the evening with lots of “Our city centre parking offering is The city centre options for dining and entertainment.” second to none and the recent launch  Nigel Dugdale of LCBA @ Limerick of the Coca Cola Bikeshare initiative is has undergone Chamber re-iterated why Limerick is a another welcome addition that will boost many changes prime shopping destination. our urban living and visiting experience. “ “Our Milk Market. Our Fashion Limerick city centre is an attractive place over recent years Quarter. Boutique stores. Pedestrian to relax, shop and socialise.” streets and friendly can-do service. “We’re in an exciting growth phase All these elements give us the right to in the city centre with lots of new shops proclaim Limerick as the retail centre of and outlets opening. We currently have the mid-west region,” he said. a really good offering but have lots of “With an internationally recognised ambitious long term plans too. We’re school of art and design located right encouraging people to look at Limerick in the heart of the city we are perfectly City as an alternative to going outside positioned to continue to develop and the city to shop,” she said. promote new indigenous designers “Our objective is to have a city that as well as attracting many of the is first of all, safe, and we have worked leading international brands to our city. Helen O’Donnell very closely with the Garda on that front. Limerick’s retail offering really has Secondly, the Tidy Towns initiative has something for everyone.” “We strive to give people a good overall focused on improving the image and experience so when people come in, they can park up and spend a day shopping and enjoying all the city has to offer and and socialise into the evening with lots of options for dining and entertainment.”

Nigel Dugdale

“Our Milk Market. Our Fashion Quarter. Boutique stores. Pedestrian streets and friendly can-do service. All these elements give us the right to proclaim Limerick as the retail centre of the mid- west region.”

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Connolly Man 12-14 Patrick Street/Crescent Shopping Centre 061-410324 www.tonyconnolly.com

The Connolly group have justly earned their reputation as one of Ireland’s top menswear retailers, a name is synonymous with quality menswear for over 45 years. Providing an unrivalled selection of leading labels, expert service, a personable atmosphere and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction. From classic business suiting, weekend casuals, leading denim labels, contemporary suiting collections and formalwear, Connolly stores have got it all. Stores are located in Patrick Street and the Crescent Shopping Centre Limerick, and O’Connell Street, Clonmel. Connolly outlet stores are located in Crescent Shopping Centre and Bedford Connolly Man Row Limerick (massive discounts on oddments and end of season stock). Stitch (Superdry) is also located on So if you’re looking something a elsewhere, why not come visit and Patrick Street. bit special that you can’t find easily discover what’s in store...

Cruises Street. Styles vary from Celtic to abstract Silverwood Jewellery Inside, the store is artfully arranged to those inspired by nature. Silverwood 32B Cruises Street and all the display cases are full of has an exclusive bridal range, which 061-312348 unique pieces. There is a wide variety of is available both in store and on the www.silverwoodjewellery.com brooches, necklaces, pendants, earrings comprehensive website. This range of and rings on offer with high quality handmade bespoke jewellery and hair For a truly unique piece of jewellery materials such as handcrafted gold and accessories are guaranteed to add extra crafted to the highest standards, pay a silver, freshwater pearls, semi precious sparkle to your big day. visit to Silverwood Jewellery, located on stones and marcasite. Passionate about jewellery and all pieces have the “ Irish Hallmarked Silver Stamp of quality

Customers will definitely find that special something for that special someone, even if that someone is you! Proprietor, Paula O’Meara, is passionate about jewellery and all pieces have the Irish Hallmarked Silver Stamp of quality. Silverwood prides itself on excellent customer service and can help you find and customise the perfect piece you or a loved one will treasure forever. Silverwood Jewellery

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An oasis from the hustle and “ bustle of the city streets

Gadget geeks will find a treasure Arthur’s Quay trove of mobile phones, accessories, and much more in Carphone Warehouse and Shopping Centre Funtech. For reading material, the quaint Arthur’s Quay Quay Books stall stocks a range of books 061-412462 with Newstop providing newspapers, www.arthursquay-shopping.com magazines and more. For the past 25 years, Arthur’s Quay For customers in search of health Shopping Centre has been at the heart of foods and alternative therapies, the Limerick city shopping scene. Holland and Barrett is a well-renowned The 600 space multi-storey car park health food store stocking vitamins, means you don’t have to worry about supplements, natural beauty products and parking and browse through nearly 30 other products. At Kosmos Health you stores in comfort. can avail of treatments like acupressure, The open plan interior of the centre acupuncture, reflexology and cupping. offers an oasis from the hustle and bustle Take a trip up to Cats hair salon to make of the city streets. sure you look as good as you feel! You can find a great mix of stores If you are feeling a little peckish you here. The anchor tenant is Tesco, can get a zingy juice at the Jumpjuice stocking everything from groceries to bar or visit Fine Things or Foodcourt AQ homewares, toys to clothing. upstairs for a relaxing refreshment or For those in need of a fashion fix, something to eat. there is Remix for casual wear and Irish You can also find outlets here Handcrafts for traditional Irish fashion offering Sky TV subscriptions, Smoke and handmade sweaters. Green electronic cigarettes and beauty Should you need your favourite outfit treatments at Looking Good Beauty cleaned, Ambassador Drycleaners offer Salon. There is also an information and a full laundry and dry cleaning service. booking outlet for Paddywagon Tours, Sports fans can bring back a souvenir which offers bus/coach backpacking from ‘Sporting Limerick’ by visiting the tours of Ireland. official Limerick FC store.

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Play the Market

main market area is now covered by a or the Grill at Country Choice and The Milk Market tensile roof to protect against inclement resting with a lovely lunch at Sallymills has been a bustling weather. restarunt or stopping for a hot drink at the Harper’s Coffee. Any gourmand hub of activity The most popular market day, Saturday, would be spoiled for choice. You visit and meeting place is now bookended by Friday and Sunday could start freshly squeezed juice markets—each with their own unique followed by a stop at Sarah’s Pantry for for the people of flavour. Friday (10am-3pm) has more tasty soups and meals; the finest home Limerick since the of a flea-market feel with an eclectic made Turkish delights to dazzle the taste selection of stalls, which vary week to buds washed down with a squeezed-on- mid 1800s. week, offering anything from artisan the-spot pomegranate juice; The Happy food products to fashion, books to bric- Hot Dog offers barbequed delights and a-brac. Sunday (11am-3pm) is a kind there are many more. of ‘anything goes’ with a broad mix of The Milk Market stalls. There are often street entertainers There are Cornmarket Row and buskers, creating a relaxed family  www.milkmarketlimerick.com atmosphere. often street entertainers and When the market started it mostly sold A visit to the market on Saturday (8am- “ fresh food and produce and this proud 3pm) is an ideal way to kick start the buskers, creating tradition continues today but the market weekend. Lots of casual traders turn also has infinitely more to offer… out for the market too so all around a relaxed family Cornmarket Row is buzzing with people atmosphere Running at full capacity, the market and activity. The busy din inside the ‘big has up to 91 shops and stalls offering top’ is music to the ears and you could If you’d rather take something home, foodstuff (whether fresh produce or easily spend hours browsing. Country Choice is famous for its fresh delectable creations), crafts, beauty home made food, including real hams, products, plants, jewellery, clothing It’s hard to pass such tempting fare. You organic vegetables and wholemeal and art. Thanks to a thoroughly modern might find yourself sampling a delicious breads. Renowned local fishmongers, makeover in the last few years, the crepe from the Bon Appetit Creperie René Cusack, sells a range of white fish

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and shellfish along with their own tasty specialty goods such as sauces, relishes concerts under the big top and details of calamari or you can ‘go fishing’ for live and more including The Real Olive upcoming gigs are on the website. The lobster and oysters when in season from Company and Píog Pies. There are also Milk Market is now truly an energetic, the tank in-store. several cheese outlets including The multi-purpose venue and has become Flying Cheese Brigade and Greenacres Ireland’s leading market. While some are Cheese and Coffee Shop—a market  institution for over a decade. Plant and shrub enthusiasts are spoilt laden down by for choice with many experts among groceries, others While some are laden down by groceries, the line up of traders. Rich pickings and “ others prefer to browse clothing, crafts, sound advice can be had from Kiely’s, prefer to browse accessories and art. To stand out in the McNamara’s and Cormac McCarthy to crowd, The Edge deals in retro, vintage name a few. clothing, crafts, and gothic clothes. If you need some accessories and sparkle in your life, Virgo Jewellery and art Accessories have a large variety or for the more ‘crafty’ customer, the selection The Milk There is a range of fruit and vegetable of gifts and artisan products from local Market is a stalls to rival any supermarket including producers, will have something unusual. Rose Cottage Fruit Farm, Killowen For an investment in some art, visit the genuine haven Orchard, Quinn’s Fruit & Vegetables, Market Gallery where the Limerick Art “ for foodies, Ken Miller’s and several more that are Society exhibit every week with some dedicated to fresh produce. If baked very appealing works. abounding with goods are what you are after, you are in high quality for a treat. The award winning Sunflower Some shops in the market complex Bakery; the Alternative Bread Company open outside of market days. Further specialty goods and the Gourmet Tart Company are three information on all the traders in the among many. market is available on the website

The Milk Market is a genuine haven for The market, in conjunction with Dolan’s foodies, abounding with high quality Warehouse, now runs evening music

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Tailor of Blue Bedford Row 061-446484

The writer, Mark Twain, famously said that “clothes make the man” and Tailor of Blue has a great selection of high quality menswear to ensure a good impression. Spanning two floors, the shop offers the best in casual and formal wear brands—perfect for leisure time, work and special occasions.

In business for over 50 years Owned and run by McGovern “Fashions Ltd, who are in business for over 50 years in Limerick, the experienced staff team is always on hand to help and advise. On the ground floor, Tailor Of Blue stocks jeans, chinos, shirts, t-shirts, and Tailor of Blue more with the latest of European trends represented. Upstairs is dedicated to and accessories as well to complete With attentive service and a range suiting, with waistcoats, shirts, ties etc your look. It also offers a tailoring and of stylish stock, Tailor of Blue has available. alteration service so your new purchase everything to have a gentleman looking Tailor of Blue has a range of footwear fits just as it should. his best

Did You Know? Local Cinema Riverdance Buried Treasure Cinema has always been one of Composer, musician and producer, Bill One of Ireland’s greatest treasures, the Limerick’s most popular pursuits. Aside Whelan, was born in Limerick in 1950. He Ardagh Chalice, was found in County from the three cinemas operating here is perhaps best known for composing, Limerick in 1868. Two boys digging in currently, at least 13 cinemas of various Riverdance. It began as a seven minute a field near a ring fort discovered the sizes and locations existed previously in piece, accompanying a dazzling display of artefact among a large hoard of objects. the city and environs—often doubling Irish dancing, for the interval of the 1994 The silver chalice is thought to be from as concert halls and dance venues. The Eurovision Song Contest but became a the Early Christian period—around the county town of Dromcollogher was the full-length stage production. The original eighth century—and is decorated with site of one of the biggest fire disasters piece was released as a single, reaching enamel, gold, bronze, pewter and brass. in Irish history when 48 people died in a No. 9 in the UK charts. He composed The chalice now resides in the National timber barn being used as a temporary several film scores and played with several Museum of Ireland (Archaeology) in cinema in 1926. The fire started when a bands including Planxty and Stockton’s Dublin. candle ignited a reel of nitrate film stock. Wing. As a producer, he has worked with U2, Van Morrison and Kate Bush to name a few. TV for tots Broadcasting Legend RTÉ children’s television presenter, Ciarán Mac Mathúna, famous radio Mr Writer Emma O’Driscoll, is a Limerick native. broadcaster and authority on Irish music, She first came to prominence on reality was born in Limerick in 1925. He spent his Author, Kevin Barry, was born in Limerick television show, Popstars, in 2001 and life travelling around Ireland, the British in 1969. Widely travelled and now living became a member of the band formed Isles and America collecting music, in Sligo, he won the Rooney Prize for on the show, Six. After the band went songs, stories and poetry etc to ensure Irish Literature for his first short story their separate ways, she eventually their preservation. He joined Radio collection, There are Little Kingdoms, became a presenter of shows like The Éireann in 1954, where he recorded many in 2007. In 2011, his debut novel, City of Disney Club, Den Tots and more. She also Irish traditional musicians. He began Bohane, was published and subsequently sings, acts and has written a children’s his Sunday morning radio series Mo won the prestigious International IMPAC book. Cheol Thú in 1970 and the programme Dublin Literary Award in 2013. continued for 35 years.

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The biggest and “ most successful shopping complex outside of Dublin

truly something for everyone. There Crescent Shopping are also a range of services on offer including hairdressers, a locksmith, Centre Limerick banks, ATMs, a post office and a travel 061-228560 agent. www.crescentshoppingcentre.ie The qualified staff in the drop-in Limerick is home to premier retail crèche located inside the Shannon Mall destination, the Crescent Shopping entrance will look after your little ones Centre Limerick is the biggest and most while you take that well-deserved break successful shopping complex outside of for some retail therapy and coffee. Dublin. The newly opened Crescent Celebrating 41 years in operation Playground is proving very popular with this year and covering a massive 37,000 children and parents. square metres of space and 2,500 free If you’re in need of a boost after parking spaces, the Crescent is a mecca shopping, there is a selection of food for fashionistas and families alike. outlets from BBs Coffee and Muffins, There are over 90 outlets, including O’Brien’s Sandwich Bar, Costa Coffee, big brand and independent stores, a 12 Quigley’s, McDonald’s, Subway, KFC, screen Omniplex cinema, numerous Butler’s Café, Ristorante Del Arte and eateries, a drop-in crèche and much Franklin’s Restaurant. more. It also hosts events like Inspire— The centre’s main anchor tenants are Munster’s biggest fashion event—and Tesco, Penney’s, Shaw’s Department a spectacular arrival of St Nicholas Store, Heaton’s, Argos and Boots to to Santa’s Grotto during the festive mention a few. season. There is also a Crescent gift Some of the hottest trends in ladies’, card available, which can be used in all men’s and children’s fashion are to be stores. News and special offers regularly found here in stores such as Next, Zara, appear on www.facebook.com/pages/ H&M, River Island, Monsoon,Tommy Crescent-Shopping-Centre. Hilfiger, Pamela Scott, Mego, Diesel, With an emphasis on value, comfort Carraig Donn and Mothercare to name and choice, the Crescent Shopping but a few. Centre is well worth a visit. Opening From jewellery outlets, health & hours are Monday-Wednesday and beauty outlets, shoe emporiums, hobby Saturday, 9.30am-6pm; Thursday and shops to bookshops, giftware stores and Friday, 9.30am-9pm and Sunday 12 don’t forget the sports outlets, there is noon-6pm.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 65 Limerick Guide Shopping Hidden Gems a lovely, relaxed atmosphere coupled The Wine Buff with a chance to sample and learn more 17 Mallow Street about wine. 061-313394 www.thewinebuff.com The country’s The Wine Buff, located in a beautifully biggest restored Georgian building, can tell you independent everything you ever wanted to know “ about wine but were afraid to ask, along specialised wine with selling a fantastic selection of wines from all over the world. retailer Owner, Mike O’Mara, would be Stock includes wine from all over delighted to welcome you to his shop, the world, champagne, wine gifts/ whether you are looking for a single accessories, Lough Derg hand-made bottle of wine or wines for a special chocolates, olive oil and chutneys. occasion of any size or type. The wines The Wine Buff is now the country’s are carefully chosen and prices start from biggest independent specialised wine €9.99 so great quality does not have to retailer and has expanded to include cost the earth. 14 stores nationwide along with one in There is always a friendly staff Madrid and St. Emillion, Bordeaux. member on hand to ask for advice if you wish. Wine tastings take place on Fridays The Wine Buff and Saturdays. These social events have

Eclectic, quirky and a magical treasure to post up an array of leaflets and flyers trove for bargain hunters, Lucky Lane is about upcoming events, while customers a great stop-off for any customer looking are also encouraged to play Limerick’s for a one of a kind item. only public piano at the shop. The pop-up shop opened in 2013 with the aim of offering quality second-hand Convenient clothes, upcycled furniture, modern art,  antiques, as well as intricately made arts central location and crafts. for information It offers local artisan traders the space “ to sell their goods, while local artists are on local music also encouraged to decorate the walls with paintings, photographs, ceramics, and arts sculptures and screen prints and sell that Offering a drop-in centre for work on commission. unwanted books and clothes, the shop also connects with the community through a host of demonstrations and Offers local discussions about furniture restoration Lucky Lane  artisan traders and other interesting topics. the space to sell Lucky Lane opens Tuesday to “ Saturday, 10am-5pm. Lucky Lane their goods 9a Catherine Street, Limerick 089-4378240 The shop is also a convenient central www.luckylane.info location for information on local music and arts, offering organisers the chance

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Limerick is the ideal place to ‘eat, drink and be merry’ with more than its fair share of fine restaurants, cosy cafés and vibrant pubs. 6Food & Drink

The Best Of Ireland Series | 67 Limerick Guide Food & Drink

The Cornstore Restaurant 19 Thomas Street 061-609000 www.cornstore.com The multi award-winning Cornstore Restaurant boasts “The best steak in Limerick and the Best Cocktail in Ireland!” and provides a warm and lively dining experience in the heart of the city. The establishment was voted ‘Best Restaurant in Limerick’ in 2012/2013 by the Restaurant Association of Ireland and ‘Cocktail Bar of the Year 2013/2014 The Cornstore Restaurant at the Bar Awards. The Cornstore also won Blas na hÉireann Food Awards for its steak rub, fig whiskey jam and plum enjoy a unique dining experience favourites such as the delectable fillet whiskey chutney in 2014 and won ‘Best complete with a wine and cocktail bar, steak and pan seared swordfish, with Kids Menu’ in 2013/2014. private dining room and contemporary the a la carte offering a combination of smoking area. both menus and more. The Cornstore has Works on the Specialising in quality local seafood just launched a €10 lunch menu too and  and aged steak (dry aged in-house and offers a great kids’ menu with ‘proper ethos of ‘quality flavoured with their own steak rub), food’ (kids under two dine free). the restaurant works on the ethos of For cocktails, the mixologists use only food sourced ‘quality food sourced locally’ under the finest ingredients. Fruit and vegetable “ locally’ the stewardship of Head Chef, Maura based elixirs are infused in-house over Baxter. a time period of anything up to 14 days It has received glowing reviews from Menus are numerous and varied in resulting in a new range of Signature many of the country’s top hospitality price. The Value Menu is available Infused Cocktails. critics including Georgina Campbell, Sunday to Thursday all night and up to Open every day for lunch and dinner Lucinda O’Sullivan and Paolo Tullio. 6.30pm Friday and Saturday at €29.95. from noon onwards, book at limerick@ Spanning three floors, guests can The Set Menu at €34.95 includes cornstore.com or phone 061-609000.

plenty of appetisers, salads, soups, curries, fish dishes and noodle dishes including beef noodle soup, Indonesian lamb Rendang curry, cod with mango and Singapore noodles as well as tasty vegetarian options.

Specialising in contemporary “ Asian cuisine As well as having an early bird, lunch Kaya Thai and dinner menu, Kaya also does take out and a kids’ menu, delivery service The kitchen is manned by a team of also available. There are also many mid- Kaya Thai highly experienced Thai chefs each with week specials and a special weekend 28 O’Connell Street many years’ experience cooking Asian menu. Now that is choice! 061-279788 food. The Kaya team members pride The restaurant interior is sleek with www.kaya.ie themselves on producing high quality dark wooden furnishings balanced with food from locally sourced produce. All beautiful statues of the Buddha and Specialising in contemporary Asian meat is traceable and 100% Irish. photographs of various Asian city scenes cuisine, this Thai and noodle bar The extensive menu has many Thai to reinforce the wonderful culture behind endeavours to provide the best healthy favourites as well as some other Asian this tasty food. Thai food in the country. dishes for you to try. The menu has

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of the fabulous steakstones, cooking and seating set ups, catering for large their own steak on a heated stone to their groups and more intimate evenings. liking—all at the table. Marco Polo serves lunch and dinner Bella Italia is fully licensed offering a seven days a week. It opens from selection of Italian and European beers, 12.30pm offering a very popular two wines and spirits. Why not top it all course menu for €9.95 until 5pm, which off with traditional tiramisu and a neat includes a starter and main course. espresso? Why not try the shredded pork crostini Bella Italia has an early bird menu followed by homemade burgers or from 5-7pm (until 6.30 pm on Fridays Malaysia land & sea? and Saturdays) with two courses for €19 and three courses for €24. It also offers Why not try the a kids’ menu, take-away and catering  services. shredded pork The restaurant opens Monday to crostini followed Saturday 10am-9.30pm and is closed “ Sundays and bank holidays. by homemade burgers? For the evening, the value menu starts Marco Polo from as little as €18.50 for three courses. O’Connell Street Popular starters include aromatic shredded duck rolls, rustic goat’s cheese Bella Italia 061-412888 www.marcopolo.ie crostini and spicy chicken wings. For the main course, choices include aromatic Marco Polo has fast become one of duck confit, trio of seafood (fish of the Bella Italia Limerick’s hot spots and as the latest day with prawns and scallops), and a 43A Thomas Street in a restaurant group which includes large selection of pasta. 061-418872 other local favourites Chocolat, Jasmine Marco Polo also boasts a stylish and www.bellaitalia.ie Palace, Z-we-ton and Wok King, it contemporary cocktail menu, which is doesn’t fail to deliver on the high not to be missed. All the classics are Bella Italia brings a slice of Italy to standard that the group is known for. catered for here and made to perfection, Limerick and gives you a chance The surroundings are spectacular but if you’re feeling brave, sample to sample ‘la dolce vita’ in culinary with a colour scheme incorporating a ‘Serial Killer’ or a ‘Strawberry delights. black, grey and cream tones, distinctive Shortcake’. This family run restaurant/deli opened chandeliers and a variety opulent booths in 1990, offering fresh traditional Italian dishes for home cooking. Having extended over the years to include a comfortable relaxing seating area, the menu now offers a great selection of antipasti, salads, pastas and pizzas and steaks. Bella Italia is perfect if you just want to catch a quick bite at lunchtime, an afternoon snack with a glass of wine or an evening meal. All pastas are freshly handmade on “ the premises every day Whether it’s simple but tasty spaghetti and meatballs, or the most popular dishes like tagliatelle boscaiola or penne al salmone, it’s definitely worth a visit. All pastas are freshly handmade on the premises every day. Pizzas are freshly Marco Polo made to order. Meat lovers have options

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Chocolat 109 O’Connell Street 061-609709 www.chocolatrestaurant.ie

A sweet tooth isn’t as essential as a keen palate if you’re dining out at Chocolat in the near future. Part of a restaurant group in the city, Chocolat’s opulent surroundings cater for everything from a business lunch to a celebration dinner. Open seven days for lunch and dinner, it is often crowded but the buzz created makes for an enjoyable atmosphere. The menu is a mix of classic and continental dishes, aiming to bring as many cultures as possible to the table. Lunch is from 12.30pm to 5pm, with Chocolat a sandwich combo deal from as little as €8.95 or a three course lunch for €15. Whether you want an open tuna four course set dinner for €25. Popular It may be cliché to say of a menu that sandwich on brown bread, with a healthy starters include General Tso’s chicken “there’s something for everyone” but salad or deep fried calamari followed salad or local mussels with chilli and with Chocolat that is true. The service is by barbequed pork ribs, all tastes are coriander. For the main course, choices fast without compromising on the quality accommodated. include vegetarian paella; grilled cod; of the food or going overboard on price. In the evening, there is a three course braised lamb shank or Singapore fried Booking is advisable. early bird menu from 5pm for €17.50 or noodles.

Hook & Ladder is continuously striving to create “ and provide the ultimate customer experience by constantly Hook & Ladder evolving of affordable, high quality furniture a range of favourites as well as out of and home accessories, including soft Hook & Ladder the ordinary dishes like smoked salmon furnishings and vintage products —to 7 Sarsfield Street omelette or brioche French toast. transform any living space into a cosy 061-413778 Lunch offerings includes the kingdom. www.hookandladder.ie renowned fireman’s curry, warm quiche The dedicated cookery school is a of Bluebell Falls goats cheese salad, haven for culinary enthusiasts, with Hook & Ladder ‘Living Café’ offers seafood chowder, a selection of gourmet classes and courses to suit all levels and customers a unique experience with sandwiches and much more. There abilities. It also caters for private and a variety of store concepts under one is also a wide selection of premium corporate events. roof— café, cookery school, furniture coffees, speciality teas and fine wines. Based in the iconic corner building and home accessories store. The in-store bakery is filled with on Sarsfield Street, Hook and Ladder Serving food all day from breakfast delicious products, all baked freshly opens Monday- Saturday, 8am-7pm through to evening meals, you can drop each day. and Sunday, 9am-6pm. Information and in and sample whatever takes your fancy Decorated in a unique and homely enquiries to: [email protected]. from the extensive menu. Breakfast has style, the shop offers an extensive range

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The Copper Room

Their philosophy is simple: To share The Copper Room their passion for cheese, wine and port 100 O’Connell Street with their customers. 061- 211000 The Copper Room, located at 100 www.thecopperroom.ie O’Connell Street, prides itself on having the most comprehensive wine, port and In the elegant setting of Georgian champagne selection around. Limerick, The Copper Room offers a With food being served to 1am at little something different—specialising weekends there is an extensive menu in atmosphere, music and comfort. including various types of cheeses, With two large open fireplaces, paté, meats and breads. All served on generous smoking areas and candlelight rustic slates while being accompanied features making for an incredibly by various oils and side dishes, each are European feel. tailored for you and your own choice.

Large open fireplaces, The Copper Room does not take reservations and operates on a walk-in generous policy and prides itself on having a very “ smoking areas laidback bar feel for the customer. It is possible to book for corporate and candlelight gatherings and parties with two separate features making areas available and there are also gift vouchers available for that someone for an incredibly special. European feel Will Leahy, 2FM DJ and television personality had this to say about The The Copper Room is open seven Copper Room: “I just love this place, evenings a week from 5pm ‘til late, and a little taste of the continent—the offering later closing times of 2am on atmosphere, the fires, the wine, the Fridays and Saturdays as long as you food—it really has it all!” are in by 12.30am. Various activities For more information, see www. take part at the weekends including DJs copperroom.ie; email info@copperroom. with live music and our popular jazz on ie; Facebook, TheCopperRoomLimerick Sunday evenings. and Twitter, @Copper_Room.

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choice for casual dining. It offers pasta Did You Know? La Piccola Pizzeria and European dishes as well as an 56 O’Connell Street extensive pizza menu. The pizzas all Poetry 061-313899 have the classic thin base so the focus is all on the tasty toppings and the A ‘limerick’ is a short, humorous poem www.lapiccolapizzeria.ie with a strict rhyming scheme (AABBA). pasta ranges from the classics to more It is not conclusively known if the La Piccola Pizzeria - side by side with original offerings. Other options include name of the form refers to Limerick La Piccola Italia on Limerick’s main bruschetta, stuffed mushrooms and City or County specifically but many street - was founded in 1997 when the mussels. The menu and wine list all has say that the name is a reference to the concept of takeaway pizza was unknown an authentic Italian feel. renowned ‘Maigue Poets’. Many of these poets wrote limericks and one such in the city. The lunch menu is on from 12- verse by publican poet, Sean O’Tuama, This modern yet intimate Italian 2.30pm; the early bird menu runs from in the 18th century read: “I sell the best restaurant has a proud family tradition Monday to Sunday from 5-7pm at €15 Brandy and Sherry/ To make all my and welcomes every type of patron. with an à la carte from 5pm seven days a customers merry/But at times their Friendly service coupled with great food week. It runs several specials and deals. finances/Run short as it chances/And then I feel very sad, very.”was born makes La Piccola Pizzeria a popular Pierce De Lacy in 1678 in Killeedy in west Limerick

Limerick in Numbers 91,456 Population of Limerick City and environs 3 La Piccola Pizzeria Limerick is the third most populous city in Ireland polpette (pasta and meatballs), spinach 202 Tuscany Bistro and ricotta ravioli, pollo alla cacciatore Distance in kilometres from Limerick Newtown Centre, Annacotty (chicken in mouthwatering tomato to Dublin 061-333444 sauce), prime fillet of beef, Tuscan www.tuscany.ie seafood stew and much more, it will be 1197 ‘molto difficile’ to decide what to eat. Year Limerick got its Charter from King Tuscany Bistro truly lives up to its name, Not to mind picking from the luscious John 1 bringing a warm blast of Italian sunshine homemade dessert selection. 2,000 into its cuisine and dining experience. Whether light snack or filling meal, Located in the bustling Newtown business lunch or romantic dinner, this Approximate number of art works in Centre a stone’s throw from the classically decorated bistro has appeal Limerick’s Hunt Museum University of Limerick, this bistro offers for every occasion. 4 freshly prepared, traditional Italian The Great Value Menu (daily until dishes and hospitality, delivered with 6pm) does exactly what it promises, Number of bridges across the Shannon in Limerick City unrivalled flair. asking just €20 for three courses off a set With an ethos revolving around menu with tea/coffee. The bistro offers a 2 ‘simple perfection’, diners will be wide range of gluten free pasta and pizza Limerick has the second largest Polish wowed by the extensive range of dishes and a kids’ menu too. community in Ireland antipasti, salads, pastas and pizzas Tuscany is not open on Mondays but as well as poultry, meat and seafood opens from 12.30pm to 9pm Tuesday, 675 options. Wednesday and Sunday and until 10pm Length in metres of the Shannon Tunnel With choices like lasagna, penne e Thursday-Saturday. 13,000 Student population of UL during the academic year. 250,000 Estimated number of people who gathered in Limerick City centre to see The Giant’s Journey on September 5-7, 2014 Tuscany Bistro

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mouthwatering new menu created by celebrity chef, Francesco Mazzei. To start, options include dough balls, bruschetta and dishes to share. Milano boasts several pizza styles. The classic pizza includes choices like the ‘American’ with pepperoni and the ‘Fiorentina’ with spinach, egg, black olives and Gran Moravia cheese. The Romana base is thinner and crispier with options like ‘Pollo ad Astra’ with chicken, sweet Peppadew peppers, red onions and cajun spices. There are also calzones (folded pizzas). Menu packed with dishes that will have your Jasmine Palace “ tastebuds doing the ‘mambo is also a five course banquet option. Jasmine Palace The restaurant opens Monday to Italiano’ O’Connell Street Thursday from 4pm and from 12.30pm The ‘Leggera’ style is a ring of 061-412484 Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Romana dough with the hole in the www.jasminepalace.ie middle filled with fresh salad finished and light house dressing—all for under Outstanding Chinese cuisine with a 500 calories. contemporary twist is the raison d’etre of Salads are available, as well as ‘al the Jasmine Palace, which is one of the Milano forno’ dishes like lasagne, pollo pesto largest restaurants in Limerick and the Harvey’s Quay and risotto pollo funghi. province. 061-462030 To top off a great meal, sweet dolcetti The original in a restaurant group, www.milano.ie include double chocolate torta, vanilla which has grown to include other local panna cotta and more, accompanied by favourites Chocolat, Z-we-ton and Wok Milano has a menu packed with dishes organic coffee. King, Jasmine Palace has proven hugely that will have your tastebuds doing the The bright, modern eatery’s riverside popular with visitors and natives alike. ‘mambo Italiano’ in no time. location guarantees nice views. Pizza The newest addition to the Jasmine Founded in 1995, this Italian making parties and functions are another Palace’s dining experience is an restaurant chain recently launched a popular pursuit here. extensive and varied buffet, which runs for lunch Friday to Sunday. In the evening from 4 - 7pm, you can choose from early bird menu which is €17.50 for starter, main course and tea or coffee. The eatery is lavishly decorated with traditional Chinese touches everywhere. The team of talented chefs hail from areas like Shanghai, Szechwan and Hong-Kong and these diverse tastes are reflected across the menu. After a starter of aromatic duck rolls or BBQ spare ribs, you can tuck in to a range of main courses. All the classics are there including curry, satay, kung po, sweet and sour etc with a choice of beef, chicken, prawns, special or vegetables. The General Tso sauce is second to none. If you would rather something more audacious, the aromatic duck, sirloin steak or scallops are just a taste of what’s on offer. There Milano

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Absolute Bar & Grill Absolute Bar & Grill Absolute Hotel, Sir Harry’s Mall 061-463600 www.absolutehotel.com

In the heart of Limerick’s historical Medieval Quarter, you will find the modern Absolute Bar & Grill, which is as vibrant and current as Limerick city itself. The Absolute Hotel, which is only a five minute walk from King John’s Castle, is home to the ABG. No more shall you find medieval fayre but dishes that are fun and tantalising, offered to you by the personable staff. There is a lovely chic feel to the place; you can relax over a cocktail and then have a delicious meal with locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere is inviting, the food and drink delectable and beautifully burgers with chunky chips off the ABG’s courses for €16.95 and three courses for presented. The ABG serves good, honest evening menu. €20.95. food complemented by the finest wines. The ABG has a unique combination The Absolute Hotel also offers private Drop in during the day for a lunchtime of indoor and outdoor dining with the and in-room dining. The ABG has been menu starting from €5 for homemade bar flowing into the terrace, where recommended by Lucinda O’Sullivan, soup or enjoy full main courses guests can enjoy al fresco dining while Georgina Campbell and Paulo Tullio starting from €9. When night draws overlooking the pretty Abbey River. but don’t take their word for it; visit for in, experience the sizzling steaks and Sunday lunch offers a selection of yourself! New York style, homemade 100% beef made-to-order main courses. Enjoy two

vol-au-vent, cottage pie, breaded cod or roast pork served with a choice of sides. The café (Kaffa) beside it has a cosmopolitan vibe with a darker colour scheme, perfect for chatting over a hot drink. Its wide-ranging menu offers teas, coffees, cold drinks and sweet things like pastries and cakes. Just beyond the café is Wok—a take on all things Chinese. From satay to chop suey, kung po to curry, there is something for everyone. All dishes are made to order. Wok runs chicken and beef specials, weekday deals and special dishes, all at excellent prices. There is a loyalty card system Food Court to reward customers, which people can apply for online at www. The Carvery/Deli is cafeteria-style foodcourtcatering.com/loyalty or at Food Court dining with food of a very high standard, the Food Court itself. Customers can Upstairs, Arthurs Quay Shopping serving soups, salads and an assortment also avail of a Lyoness card at the Food Centre of sandwiches, wraps, ciabattas and Court. The Lyoness card offers cash back 061-304367 rolls. For even better value, there are on items purchased at the Food Court www.foodcourtcatering.com combination deals. and other participating outlets globally. The hot food counter does breakfast Food Court also provides catering The numerous outlets of the Food Court, from pastries to the traditional full services for events etc and more which offer a huge choice of cuisine, Irish. For lunch, it varies its main information is available on 061-304367. dominate the first floor of Arthur’s Quay courses, which are competitively priced. Shopping Centre. Examples include chicken & mushroom

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Hong Kong

tradition of great service. with classics from the Wine Menu such Hong Kong Starters include meat sung, crispy as the fragrant Mateus Rosé or French 44 William Street aromatic duck and skewer chicken Burgundy wine from J. Moreau & Fils. 061–411505/085-1531761 in satay sauce as well as soups. The Hong Kong can boast of having www.facebook.com/HKCRLimerick Mains cover poultry, meat, seafood one of the best value meal deals in the and vegetables in various delectable city, offering a starter and main course The Hong Kong was the very first combinations. for €10.50 from 4.30-7:30pm daily. Chinese restaurant in the Treaty City and Whether your preference is crispy Popular with couples, families or even celebrated 50 years of serving superb chilli chicken, beef Szechuan, king old friends’ get-togethers for its cosy Oriental cuisine to people in 2014. prawn kung po, house special duckling, setting, book a table over the phone to The Choi family first founded the char siu or the Chef’s Specials hot-hot avoid disappointment. restaurant and then sold it to their chicken, there is something for every The Hong Kong also offers takeaway friends, the Lees, who had come to palate. The menu includes European and delivery services. It opens seven Ireland from Hong Kong. They renamed dishes like Chicken Maryland and days a week from 4.30-11pm. it after their homeland and the décor omelettes, among others. To go with reflects that heritage, as does the the flavours on offer, whet your tipple

To sweeten up and round off a The Treasury Restaurant is open The Treasury great meal, homemade ice-cream, from Tuesday to Saturday, 5pm-1am. Black Forest gateaux and passion fruit For more information and regular Restaurant cheesecake are among the desserts. A updates, see www.facebook.com/ 74 O’Connell Street sophisticated but reasonably priced wine TheTreasuryRestaurant. 061-590005 list complements the menu. www.thetreasuryrestaurant.com The staff team, led by proprietor, This self-styled original artisan Barry Kiely, is very attentive and strives The Treasury Restaurant eatery combines the best produce and to put guests at ease. atmospheric surroundings to create a fine dining experience to be cherished. Based in a historic Georgian building, the basement space is elegant with exposed Combines the brick, period décor with a twist and best produce features such as open fireplaces. The Treasury offers two set menus, and atmospheric priced at €25 and €35, and the cuisine “ surroundings has flair as well as providence. Starters include chicken liver parfait, to create a warm smoked haddock, mussels, braised fine dining pork cheek and beef ravioli. Delectable main courses are a treat for even the experience to be most discerning palate. The options cherished take in confit duck leg, rib eye beef, roast hake, slow cooked pork belly and braised lamb shoulder to name but a few.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 75 Limerick Guide Food & Drink

Limerick has truly embraced café culture with numerous Cafés casual eateries to sit and watch the world go by. Inside, the space is bright and fresh with tasteful décor in its pale shades and wooden tables and chairs. On a nice day, you can sit out on the terrace and take in the peaceful river views. The food on offer includes delectable homemade cakes, scones and breads. Along with soup, sandwiches and a large selection of salads, lunch main courses range from ham to lamb to fish. There is always a vegetarian option available too. If you’re just popping in for a refreshment, there are a choice of teas, coffees and hot chocolate to enjoy with a luscious dessert like chocolate cake, roulade, lemon meringue and much The Hunt Café more. Along with amiable service and tasty Set in the elegant surrounds of cuisine on a daily basis, The Hunt Café The Hunt Café Limerick’s former customs house, this also offers outside catering. It opens The Hunt Museum, Rutland Street café and lunchtime restaurant is the Monday to Saturday. 10am-5pm and 061-312662 perfect pitstop on a visit to the Hunt Sunday, 12-6pm. www.facebook.com/pages/The- Museum, or indeed the nearby Medieval Hunt-Café Quarter.

“There’s a river somewhere that flows wisdom from its magical waters, but stronghold for settlers and soldiers through the lives of everyone” according the well was forbidden to women and alike. Many industries are reliant on the to American singer, Roberta Flack, and as she approached it, the water burst Shannon from shipping to tourism and the mighty Shannon that flows from forth, washing her downstream. Sionann pursuits like fishing, rowing and boating Cavan to Limerick has touched the lives drowned and it was believed her essence are very popular. of all who have lived by her stunning was absorbed by the river that now Unsurprisingly, the Shannon features banks. flowed from the well thereby making her prominently in Denis Allen’s iconic According to legend the river the river’s diety. song ‘Limerick, You’re a Lady’ which is named after Lady Sionann, The river has been vital to the includes lines like “Your Shannon waters granddaughter of Lear, the sea-king of development of Limerick. From the tears of joy that flow/The beauty that the Tuatha De Danann. Lady Sionann earliest times it was a source of food surrounds you/I’ll take it with me love paid a visit to the Well of Connla to gain and water. Later it became a strategic where e’er I go”.

The River Shannon 76 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Food & Drink

The Sage Café

are homemade. Coeliac options are critics, Georgina Campbell and Lucinda The Sage Café available. The Sage Café also serves O’Sullivan. 67/68 Catherine Street breakfast and lunch, with locally sourced 061-409458 and Irish produce. The Sage Café www.thesagecafe.com Whether it’s a made to order  sandwich, a baked orange cheesecake, also serves This charming café is most often buzzing scrambled egg with oak salmon or inside and in the outdoor seating area, market fish of the day with a ginger and breakfast and which is a testament to its popularity. lime batter served with French fries or “ lunch, with It has a broad tea/coffee/ beverage sweet potato fries - just a small helping menu and Fair Trade products are used of choices - the food won’t disappoint. locally sourced where possible. All the delicious breads, The Sage Café has been recommended and Irish produce scones, jams, chutneys and desserts by the Bridgestone Guide and food

agree, whether eating in or taking away. Zest! Love is the magic Zest! opens from breakfast, offering Limerick City Gallery of Art, Pery  pancakes and pastries as well as Square/City East Retail Park, ingredient in the delicious coffee from McCabe’s Ballysimon Road Roastery and other beverages. The early food here bird offer of a hot drink and scone at €3 061-319449 “ www.zestfood.ie windows, looking out onto the greenery is very popular. of People’s Park, makes the colourful From lunch onwards, Zest! does made The name of this café betrays an space light-filled and airy. to order sandwiches, paninis, wraps and unmistakeable gusto for fresh, zingy The people behind Zest! emphasise salads and hot lunch options include food. that “love is the magic ingredient” in the soup, quiche, salmon, chicken curry, Zest! @ The Gallery’s wall of food here and the many customers would sirloin steak and more.

Artisan breads, cakes and other sweet treats are “ made fresh daily Artisan breads, cakes and other sweet treats are made fresh daily. Home catering and special occasion cakes are also available. Zest! opens seven days a week. Zest! has now opened a branch in the City East Retail Park as well, located on the first floor of EZ Living in Unit 1 of Zest! the retail park on the Ballysimon Road.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 77 Limerick Guide Food & Drink

HOT SPOTS

in LIMERICK eateries

Café Noir • Olio and Farina Little Catherine Street array of fresh fillings and gourmet salads Café Noir like Mediterranean roast vegetables Multiple locations with olives, sundried tomatoes and feta • Limerick Milk Market 061-411522 cheese, Indian spiced couscous and Cornmarket Row www.cafenoir.ie more. The organic goats cheese, spinach This multi award winning café group and caramelised red onion quiche won • McDonalds runs four very successful outlets in the Gold at the Blas Na hÉireann Awards city. Superb baked goods and patisserie 2014, which is the ‘Great Taste Oscars’ Cruises Street have distinguished the Café Noir brand while the classic ham and gruyère quiche from the beginning and a team of bakers Lorraine is equally good. in a central kitchen work through the Cheerful, efficient service is the • Zest! night to ensure early morning deliveries result of in-house training and food @ LCGA of the impressive range of artisan breads, displays at the self-service counters are croissants, scones, muffins, quiches and continuously replenished to maintain decadent desserts. freshness. • The Cornstore Breakfast offer includes grilled This group of French-inspired coffee Thomas Street butchers sausage, Irish bacon, tomato, houses has four outlets in Limerick: eggs of your liking with toasted artisan Dairygold Co-Op Superstores, Raheen; breads. Alternatively there is a vast Robert Street in the city centre; • Café Noir selection of freshly squeezed juices, Parkpoint, Castletroy and the University fresh fruit salad with natural yogurt, of Limerick. The Castletroy outlet has Multiple Locations crepes, croissants and pain au chocolat a full a la carte evening menu offering or a savoury option of luscious croque a variety of pizzas, pastas, gourmet monsieur stacked high with smoked ham burgers and steak dishes, all for • Texas Steak Out and gruyère cheese. incredible value. O’Connell Street Lunchtime sandwiches and salads are Cafe Noir is recommended by all made to order pairing breads like light the major food guides including those rye, roast pepper, homemade brown soda by John & Sally McKenna, Georgina • Bambu or walnut and date loaf with an inviting Campbell and Lucinda O’Sullivan. O’Connell Street Did You Know? Comedy Some of Ireland’s funniest people are from Limerick. These include successful comedy duos like The Rubberbandits, D’Unbelievables and Tom and Paschal. Local comedic talent also includes Karl Spain, Dermot Whelan and Harry Bailey. The parents of British funnyman, Jimmy Carr, are from Limerick many times and has even used Limerick and he holds dual UK and material collected here in his stand-up Irish citizenship. He has visited shows.

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A haven for book, coffee, tea and craft lovers alike, The Stormy Teacup offers an eclectic and bohemian space packed to the rafters with a hefty dose of character. The alternative tea shop is the brainchild of Mārtiņš Punculis and Ruth Crean, two close friends who used a creative internet crowd funding campaign to make their dream a reality. The gamble paid off and they raised enough to set up this artisan space, which also hosts cultural events such as documentary nights, a baking club, Twitter meetings, book club meetings, music gigs and DJ sessions. The creative space has a craft shop on its ground floor, stocking local handmade crafts such as felt slippers, upcycled jewellery, linen scarves, wood work and illustrations. Aroma Coffee House Upstairs is an oasis of calm, where customers can choose from over 50 types bright and are perfect for people of loose leaf teas and receive advice on Aroma Coffee House watching. There is also free Wi-Fi and the right blend of tea for their specific 43 Roches Street outdoor seating. mood and palette. 089-4212323 Aroma Coffee House opens Monday Against the backdrop of reclaimed to Saturday 8am-6pm and Sunday 9am- furniture, quirky décor and exposed The aroma that greets every customer 5.30pm. brick walls, customers can also enjoy walking in here is of the strong organic free Wi-Fi, rich coffee, homemade soups coffee and fresh food this smart cafe is and cakes. known for. The Stormy Teacup opens Tuesday, Serving breakfast, lunch and a variety The Stormy Teacup 10am-7pm; Wednesday and Thursday, of sweet treats throughout the day, Fox’s Bow, Thomas Street 10am-9pm and Friday and Saturday, Aroma is a popular spot among the many 087-9590571 10am-10pm. regulars.For brekkie, the fare ranges www.thestormyteacup.com from scones to cooked options including delectable eggs and smoked salmon. For lunch, a variety of toasted and plain sandwiches (including panini and wraps), gluten-free soups and salads are the mainstay. All dishes are freshly made and presented creatively.

Aroma is a popular spot among the many “ regulars

The Fairtrade teas and organic coffees are available any time with cake or a muffin heated and served with cream or ice-cream to complement them. The hot chocolate and specialty coffees are a particular highlight too. Aroma’s funky decor, with music softly playing in the background, creates a pleasant atmosphere, along with the friendly and attentive service. The Stormy Teacup The large windows make the cafe

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Cellar Door Cellar Door at Cobblestone Joe’s Little Ellen Street www.facebook.com/ cellardoorfoxsbow

A unique coffee house and vintage clothing store, part of Cellar Door’s charm is that it is housed in the quirky tunnels beneath The Blind Pig pub. Owned and run by Maeve O’Donovan and Abigail Hibbert, this café offers a very laid back atmosphere to enjoy a hot drink and a browse. A firm favourite with writers, Cellar Door “ poets, musicians and artists alike Accompanying your caffeine fix you can The Cellar Door also hosts a wine pick from a range of teacakes and treats. and cheese evening every Saturday night The walls are draped in beautiful A firm favourite with writers, poets, from 7pm, with live lounge music. They patterned materials giving a Moroccan musicians and artists alike, Cellar Door offer a selection of red and white wines feel to this underground coffee shop. often plays host to talks, discussions and complemented with locally sourced All of the tables and chairs have a intimate gigs. cheeses. pre-loved history to them and the walls Rounding off this nod to 90s coffee Opening hours are: Monday to are stacked with books aplenty to take culture, Cellar Door also has a range of Wednesday, 10am-8pm; Thursday and down and peruse while you enjoy your vintage clothing for sale. Friday, 10am-9pm; Saturday, 10am- Badger and Dodo coffee or herbal tea. 12.30pm and Sunday, 12.30-7pm.

of Limerick for 30 years, Luigi’s is to 12.30am, and Sundays from 4pm to Luigi’s Traditional Fish everything you’d want in a Fish & Chip 11.30pm & Chips Takeaway/ restaurant/takeaway. Luigi Orlandi and his staff have Restaurant perfected their recipes over many years Serving the 44 Parnell Street  to the point where Limerick people now 061-410269 people of simply only have to say ‘going for a Limerick for 30 Located directly across from Colbert Luigi’s to be instantly understood. “ train station and serving the people Open Monday to Saturday from 10am years

Luigi’s Traditional Fish & Chips

80 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Food & Drink

Limerick has a variety of both quaint old style public houses Pubs as well as stylish, modern new age pubs to choose from. W.J. South’s 4 Quinlan Street (O’Connell Avenue) 061-318850

South’s Pub has the unique honour of being the place where Pulitzer Prize winning writer, Frank McCourt, had his very first pint. It has several mentions in McCourt’s memoir, Angela’s Ashes, and he visited the pub on trips back to Limerick. South’s has been trading since 1909 and maintains the classic interior and character that is its signature to this day. The imposing bar counter is something W.J. South’s to see in itself and its history is outlined in the framed newspaper cuttings and sketches hanging on the walls. plenty of quiet corners to relax in the It has been modernised and extended Trading since welcoming atmosphere. Among the over the years with one of the additions 1909 and clientele are avid sports fans, many with being a carvery counter. South’s a keen interest in rugby, racing and golf. serves breakfast in the mornings and maintains the South’s has its own golf society. There is often busy for lunch as well as light “ classic interior is a smoking area with tables and chairs refreshments throughout the day. at the front. It has televisions dotted around but and character

history. You can set your drink down on tables made from vintage sewing machines and take in the array of memorabilia on the walls. During the day, it’s an ideal spot for a coffee or lunch of anything from soup to a tasty panini. If the weather is good, you can enjoy a pint outdoors in the shade. Later, the tables are lit by candlelight. One thing you won’t see is a television because that might interrupt the hum of good conversation and local gossip. Every Wednesday, the pub fills up with poets for the White House Poetry Revival. A featured poet reads their The White House work in the ‘Poets’ Corner’, followed by a lively open mic session where the pub. anyone can share their piece. Now every The White House It has been a fixture on O’Connell Thursday, at The White House Acoustic 52 O’Connell Street Street for 200 years, beginning as Club, aspiring singer songwriters can 061-412377 a winery in the heart of Georgian come and perform their own work along Limerick. The wife of the editor of with listening to a guest performer each Old world charm with an artistic newspaper, The Limerick Leader, ran week. temperament is the best way to describe it once so it is still a favourite with The White House also has live music The White House or you could just ask local media. The bar’s oak panelling a few nights a week. one of the many writers who frequent and mirrors reflect many generations of

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warm-up, watching games or having a On Sundays, a local trad band Flannery’s Bar drink afterwards while discussing the entertain with foot stomping traditional 19 Shannon Street action. music from 6pm to late. 061-415027 With strong connections to Ahane If you are looking for a quality GAA through Paul’s wife, Eilise—the quick lunch on the go, why not drop Step into one of Limerick’s best kept granddaughter of one of Limerick and into Flannery’s for one of their toasted secrets at Flannery’s Bar on Shannon Ahane’s finest hurlers, the great Mick specials, soup of the day or one of Street. Mackey—it is also a good spot to watch the finest Irish coffees to be made in With a traditional pub façade of dark all the GAA action in the summer. Limerick. wood and gold lettering, Flannery’s is located directly opposite the entrance of the George Boutique Hotel. Proprietor, Paul Flannery and his staff treat every customer as if they were regulars, inviting them to have a pint in the comfortable and relaxed atmosphere of this cosy pub.

Staff treat every customer as if they were “ regulars Located just off O’Connell Street, it would be easy to overlook this small pub, but the big welcome and family- run ethos is not to be missed. This is a superb bar to bask in all things Limerick Flannery’s Bar and Munster, whether the pre-match

interior is the real step back in time. politician, Jim Kemmy - after whom Tom Collins’ Regulars held their breath during the the city museum is named - is featured 34 Cecil Street recent revamp but thankfully the bar was in one drawing. Old regulars are also 061- 415749 freshened up rather than sanitised of its among the subjects, many painted by authentic feel. the former owner’s son. If you ask the The distinctive red and cream front of Local characters can be found in the friendly bar staff, they could tell you a Tom Collins’ harks back to the classic original artwork on the walls and in the bit about the paraphernalia decorating pub facades of the last century but the seats nursing a pint. Limerick Labour the pub. The BBC series Three Men in a Boat even “ stopped off here on their trip It is well known as a place to get a perfect Guinness or Beamish. Whether you’re tucked away in the snug or sitting at the worn marble counter, Collins’ is a great spot to while away a few hours. Later on, the place livens up with music, the occasional traditional session and you might hear a sing-song if you’re lucky! The BBC series Three Men in a Boat even stopped off here on their trip down the Shannon for a genuine Irish Tom Collins’ experience.

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The Glen Tavern 1-2 Lower Glentworth Street 061-411380 www.glentavern.ie

The Glen Tavern aims to be Limerick’s local in the heart of the city and an oasis of nostalgia, with all the memorabilia from days gone by, displayed both inside and in the large windows fronting the premises. The friendly staff, led by owner Ger Callanan, strives to maintain their high standards achieved with the Fáilte The Glen Tavern Ireland award. Delicious pub grub, a great pint of “the black stuff” and live music are the main attractions for is made freshly on the premises by the curry, Irish stew and a vegetarian dish visitors and regulars alike. chef. of the day. Evening meals include steak Breakfast options include a full Irish, baguette, beef & Guinness pie, and fresh a mini breakfast, scrambled eggs etc. cod. Groups bookings for meals can Delicious pub Light lunch options include seafood be assured of a professional service in  chowder, homemade soups, sandwiches a cosy atmosphere. All special dietary grub, a great and ‘a light bite of the day’. Daily deals needs are well catered for with the pint of “the black include tea/coffee with a scone/pastry choice of menu that is available. “ for €2.75. The location, just off O’Connell stuff” For a heartier meal in the daytime, Street, makes it an ideal meeting place. Food is served from 9.30am there is a large choice including There is live music nightly Thursday until 10pm and is mostly made up shepherd’s pie, fish, chicken Kiev, to Sunday; you are guaranteed a good of traditional dishes with a few lasagna, ploughman’s lunch and salad night’s entertainment. Matches and other contemporary touches. All the cuisine plates as well as daily specials e.g. major sports events are broadcast live.

celebrated 50 years in business in 2013 and has won many awards in recent years for its delicious food. It is known to serve a great pint of Guinness along with a large selection of craft beers and wines from around the world. Fiona and Robert and the team at Bobby’s pride themselves on the level of customer service they provide. On stepping into this cosy pub with real log fire, you will know a warm welcome awaits you. Every Thursday night, there is a lovely trad music session enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. When rugby season recommences, Bobby Byrnes Bar Bobby’s is the only place in town to soak up the match atmosphere and gastro-pub by Limerick’s most enjoy a few pints. Bobby’s is an official Bobby Byrnes Bar welcoming staff is not to be missed Match Venue Bar for the Munster Rugby 3 O’Connell Avenue according to one customer who recently Supporters Club. The pub walls are fixed 061-316949 visited and reviewed it on Tripadvisor: with fascinating rugby memorabilia www.bobbybyrnesbar.com “Bobby Byrnes should definitely be on and the ceilings adorned with club and your to-do list if you visit Limerick, you international flags and jerseys. Situated on the corner of O’Connell are in for a treat,” said Claire from Cork. So if you’re a new visitor to Bobby’s, Avenue and Wolfe Tone Street, Bobby Bobby Byrnes is a traditional Irish come and sit by the fireside and enjoy Byrnes is Limerick’s friendliest foodie family run bar, owned and operated by a creamy pint, accompanied by the best corner. Robert and Fiona, the second generation pub grub in town. The delicious food is served seven of the Byrne family to run the bar. days a week at this award winning ‘Bobby’s’, as it is known locally,

The Best Of Ireland Series | 83 Limerick Guide Food & Drink

Myles Breen’s 18 Shannon Street 061-414327 www.facebook.com/MylesBreens

Myles Breen’s Select Bar has stood at 18 Shannon Street in Limerick City since 1802. Since the early 19th century its façade has witnessed disparate archetypes of traffic, not just humans but from horse- drawn wagons to the contemporary motorcar. Nonetheless, one thing which has survived and remained the same is its establishment as a public house and as an institution of Munster Rugby.

Atmosphere Myles Breen’s is created by a combination and amiable atmosphere is created by is the art of conversation, sounding from “ a combination of contrasting factors: mouths and lingering on the ears of each of contrasting good staff, striped upholstery, polished of its customers. It caters for clientele factors mahogany and of course, the green relief of all ages. With fantastic porter for a wallpaper littered with a framed gallery fair price, Myles Breen’s and its staff This pub is situated on a street of sporting events. continue to facilitate a great service which links Limerick’s City centre to When sport is not on the television, between its pints and its punters. the majestic River Shannon. Its snug the only friendly music that can be heard

the one place. spirits. With contemporary comforts, Bentley’s & Isaac Located in Limerick’s iconic Georgian Bentley’s also has touches of period quarter in the centre of O’Connell Street, décor to reflect its history. Taylor’s the bars have distinct personalities but Isaac Taylor, born in 1787, was a 101 O’Connell Street the same relaxed atmosphere and cordial, noted writer and inventor—credited with 061-214625 efficient service. inventing the beer-tap and machines for www.facebook.com/Bentleys. Up the steps is Bentley’s, named for engraving copper. Located downstairs Limerick / www.facebook.com/ Thomas and Richard Bentley—who below street level, the bar has a IsaacTaylors from 1846 on established a long tradition traditional feel and its copper fittings and Bentley’s and Isaac Taylor’s offer top on O’Connell Street as grocers and fixtures, as well as its selection of beer class bar and restaurant facilities all in merchants trading in tea, wine and taps, hint at Taylor’s talents.

Located in Limerick’s iconic Georgian “ quarter

Both bars are in constant demand for functions of all types. Isaac Taylor’s has even hosted an event for Virgin Airlines, attended by Richard Branson. At the back is the original courtyard— once a part of Limerick’s famous hanging gardens. This heated, outdoor area, which recently hosted 4FM ‘Awesome 80s Party’, has its own bar and plenty of seating. For more information email: party@bentleysbar. Bentley’s & Isaac Taylor’s net.

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Photo:dani3315

The Blind Pig & Speakeasy Did You Know? the impressive bank of taps boasting Limerick Journalists The Blind Pig & up to 15 different craft beers. You can Several leading Irish journalists hail enjoy sets from various alternative Speakeasy DJs, very special acoustic sessions and from Limerick. Vincent Browne was 31 Thomas Street born here in 1944. He is currently a the occasional comedy gig. There is a Limerick columnist with The Irish Times and small beer garden in the front too with presents current affairs discussion 083-1512771 impressive plans for a rooftop garden show Tonight with Vincent Browne on TV3. Another legendary local At first glance, The Blind Pig looks like coming along. journalist was Arthur Quinlan (1921- a beer nut’s paradise but if you take a Self confessed ‘beer nerds’ will also 2012). Though not born here, he was closer look, you will find that this is a find something to enjoy here with a based at Shannon Airport - reporting place where everyone’s inner child can range of craft beers on offer including for The Irish Times - for a significant run free. Proper Job, McIvor’s cider, Asahi and period during his 50 year career. He is well known for his interviews with Covering two floors on the upper Murphy’s Irish stout. With an ever- politicians, royalty and film stars. He end of Thomas Street, the Blind Pig is a increasing list you are sure to have a was the first Irishman to travel in a jet haven for music fans. taste experience like nowhere else in across the Atlantic to New York in 1958. The speakeasy boasts the finest the city. cocktail venue the city has to offer with The Blind Pig has literally kegs of custom-made infused whiskeys and gins. character and a multifaceted appeal so Literary Legacy The highly trained mixologists will give visitors have a lot to enjoy including you something to leave your tastebuds cinema nights. comedy, live jazz and Limerick novelist and playwright, yearning for more. much more. Kate O’Brien (1897-1974) is known for acclaimed works such as Without My On the ground floor, the flocked Cloak (Winner of the James Tait Black skull wallpaper sets an indie tone with Memorial Prize), The Ante-Room, Mary Lavelle, The Land of Spices and That Lady. O’Brien is considered a pioneer in Irish fiction. She had very strong links Did You Know? in 1967 and went to present with Spain, having worked there for a many leading television time and she also wrote a travelogue Sir Terry Wogan and radio programmes like entitled Farewell Spain and a biography Wogan, Children in Need, of Saint Teresa of Avila. She has a Sir Terry Wogan, one of Blankety Blank, Come street named after her in the village of Dancing and the Eurovision Gotarrendura in the Avila region. Her Ireland’s and the UK’s Song Contest. His Wake childhood home remains on Mulgrave foremost broadcasters, Up to Wogan show on BBC Street in the city and a collection of was born in Limerick her papers was bequeathed to the in 1938. He began Radio 2 regularly attracted University of Limerick in 2002. The his career at RTÉ and eight million listeners, Limerick Literary Festival (formerly the presented shows like until he retired from it in Kate O’Brien Weekend) is held in her Jackpot in the 1960s. He 2009. He currently presents honour annually in Limerick. began working for BBC radio a Sunday morning show, Weekend Wogan, on Radio 2. Photo:Featureflash

The Best Of Ireland Series | 85 Limerick Guide Food & Drink

Mickey Martin’s Augustinian Lane

This funky little bar is tucked away down a lane and has long been a hang- out for people who see things a little differently. It is the only bar that plays alternative tunes all day long and at night, the hippest DJs spin into the early hours. Urban, disco, soul and funk dominate the sound.

Mickey’s is one of The Red Hen the few bars in Limerick where décor; they come for the buzz, which is Four stylish floors take the customer “ brilliant when the small space fills up. on a magical mystery tour. Owner, you can sample The bar staff are laid-back and friendly, Antone Meaney, wanted the Red Hen to as are the clientele. Mickey’s is one of stand out from the crowd and it certainly the more exotic the few bars in Limerick where you does with eclectic décor, friendly European beers can sample the more exotic European barkeeps and a diverse soundtrack of beers like Erdinger, Hoegaarden and a funk, soul, jazz, hip hop and indie tunes. When passing the lane entrances selection of European craft beers. For The first floor offers a fireplace, stacks on Thomas or Catherine Street, you’ll more information and updates, they say of old books, high tables/stools and great most likely hear it before you see it. Its “Find us on Facebook”. street views. The next level, or main bar, compact interior means that the outdoor attracts customers with soft lighting, seating and smoking area, covered by comfortable seating and an extensive canvas awning, is very popular whatever menu of cocktails, craft beers and that the weather. It often surpasses the The Red Hen all- important creamy pint of Guinness. numbers inside because there is even a 15 Patrick Street ‘The Coop’ is the outdoor smoking area. handy hatch through to the bar for drinks 061-279604 orders. www.redhenbarlimerick.com Four stylish Mickey’s serves lunch from 12.30-  3pm, offering a range of eclectic dishes One of Limerick’s most famous sons, floors take the from prawn curry to bacon and cabbage Richard Harris, once uttered the words customer on a along with soup, wraps and more. “I often sit back and think, I wish “ Whatever the fare, the emphasis is on I’d done that, and find out later that I magical mystery good, clean flavours. already have.” Harris’ achievements are Inside the bar could be described as commemorated in The Red Hen, not tour ‘shabby chic’ and the roaring fire makes least with a 10 foot high portrait of the Heading skywards, the mezzanine it cosy but people don’t come for the great man. level has a vintage feel with the armchairs and carnival signs. The top bar is the perfect space for any occasion from family parties to corporate launches, cultural events to a monthly flea market. From the rooftop terrace, or ‘The Nest’, the eye can see rooftops of Limerick. The fully heated space is covered in reclaimed wooden paneling. The Red Hen serves hearty, healthy and affordably priced food from 11.30am-4.30pm, Monday-Friday and 9.30am-5pm on Saturday. Sports enthusiasts are catered for with big screens throughout and it is a late bar from Thursday to Sunday.

Mickey Martin’s

86 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Food & Drink

The Locke Bar & Oyster House Restaurant 3 Georges Quay 061-413733 www.lockebar.com The Locke Bar and Oyster House is one of Limerick’s leading gastropubs - voted Ireland’s Best Tourist Bar in recent years. The Locke is situated on the site of one of Limerick’s oldest pubs dating back to 1724. The gastropub is surrounded by Limerick’s best known tourist attractions like the Hunt Museum, The Locke Bar & Oyster House Restaurant King John’s Castle, St Mary’s Cathedral and a short walk from Limerick’s lively Milk Market. live bands bring a unique atmosphere Limerick’s famous ham. to the bar at weekends. Friday is a The Locke combines pub, restaurant Live music is particularly good night to sample the and craic so effortlessly it’s easy to see  atmosphere with locals pouring in for why it’s a favourite among locals and always on the after work drinks and enjoying the live visitors alike. The décor is comfortable menu with music. and classic with wood paneling and open “ The gastropub serves food seven days fires. traditional Irish a week, specialising in fresh seafood It’s a great place to enjoy a good old and steaks, whilst catering for all tastes fashioned pint but the friendly staff are music sessions - last orders taken at 10pm. The pub is on hand to advise on a large array of Live music is always on the menu always busy for lunch with a range of cocktails and craft beers for the more with traditional Irish music sessions delicious daily specials and a selection adventurous. A visit to Limerick isn’t every evening Sunday - Thursday and of sandwiches like ‘The Treaty’ with complete without a visit to the Locke.

early morning. In its long history it has been the birthplace of an American Senator, a location for the picking of the Limerick hurling team, and during the War of Independence, guns, ammunition and infamously the gunpowder used to blow up Annacotty bridge, was stolen from the nearby barracks and passed to the rebels inside the doors of this well-known Limerick bar. The Horse & Hound opens from 7.30am Monday to Saturday and from 9am on Sunday with its hallmark full Irish breakfast the main attraction. From 12-9pm, it serves a traditional, wholesome and generously portioned menu which changes daily with speedy, table service assured. At any time of the The Horse & Hound Bar day, this is one of the best places in the city to get a good pint of Guinness, a true Mulgrave Street and Cathedral Place for sign of a traditional Irish pub. The Horse & Hound over 150 years. Popular with locals and tourists Originally established under a 999 alike, this establishment sees customers Bar year lease to cater for thirsty farmers returning again and again for its relaxed 1 Mulgrave Street who enjoyed an early tipple before atmosphere, good food, great drink and 061-419194 selling their produce at the market fair, friendly banter. With a reputation for The Horse & Hound Bar has been this bar continues to provide food and impromptu sing songs and traditional continuously trading at the corner of drink to those who start their day in the music, this Limerick pub is a favourite.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 87 Limerick Guide Food & Drink

Dolan’s Pub & Restaurant Dock Road 061-314483 www.dolans.ie Dolan’s wears several hats, seamlessly combining a traditional pub with delicious fare, all side by side with the two purpose-built live music venues on-site. It opened its doors in 1994 and since then has grown to be one of Limerick’s most iconic venues whether drinking, The Locke Bar & Oyster House Restaurant eating or enjoying music, sport and more. on the walls. With a warm atmosphere, stew, seared pork chops, sirloin steak One of Limerick’s amiable service and an outstanding pint, and more.  you can understand its popularity. It runs a set pre-gig menu for selected most iconic Dolan’s opens for breakfast on shows and a monthly supper club too. venues whether weekends and bank holidays. The á Dolan’s can also supply finger food for “ la carte menu runs Monday to Friday, functions. drinking, eating 5-10pm and Saturday/Sunday 3-10pm. There is traditional music played here or enjoying Starters include fresh mussels, oak seven nights a week but The Warehouse smoked salmon salad, spicy sweet and Upstairs venues regularly host music chilli chicken wings and creamy Cajun leading music and comedy acts. The décor has great character from mushroom bruschetta. The mains are There are several large screens for the solid wood furniture to the open mostly homely dishes but executed with watching sports (the pub is especially fire, from the corner space reserved for flair including fish and chips, baked lively for Munster games) and a heated musicians to the Irish/music memorabilia fillet of salmon, bangers and mash, Irish smoking area.

Seoda Shows brings great gigs from up and coming bands too like Other Creatures, Girl Band and Squarehead. Gigs are often free or tickets just a few euros.

KASBAH Social Club is a popular draw for movie “ and music fans

Wednesday nights are movie nights with Groovy Movies. If the free admission and popcorn can’t tempt you, the movies on offer will. Classics screened already include Ferris Bueller’s KASBAH Social Club Day Off and The Big Lebowski. KASBAH Social Club is a popular focusing on live music, aims to do just draw for movie and music fans so be KASBAH Social Club that. sure to drop in and enjoy the lively No. 5 Dock Road Open just a few months beside atmosphere for yourself. 061-314483 Dolan’s Pub and Warehouse on the Dock KASBAH Social Club opens www.facebook.com/ Road, the KASBAH Social Club has Wednesday to Sunday from 7.30pm and KASBAHsocialclub already attracted popular names in Irish until 11.30pm Wednesday and Thursday; music such as The Minutes, Sisters, until 2am Friday and Saturday and an One of The Clash’s best known tunes is R.S.A.G, Delorentos and Booka Brass early night on Sunday, closing at 11pm. ‘Rock the Casbah’ and this new venue, Band.

88 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Food & Drink

Fennessys Pub 1 New Street 061-229038

Fennessys is one of Limerick’s oldest pubs and is full of character and steeped in history. Established in 1904 by Matthew Fennessy the pub is now being run by the fourth generation of the Fennessy family. Located adjacent to Mary Immaculate College on the South Circular Road, this pub has been a favourite for the staff and students of the college for many years as well as for locals. The college’s new addition, The Lime Tree Theatre, is fast becoming the city’s leading stage Fennessys Pub venue and this makes Fennessys a prime location for a pre or post performance tipple. Fennessys is a great spot to watch a table quizzes. match, have a function, enjoy a creamy You can also grab lunch here with Fennessys is a pint or relax with a coffee. the sandwich bar, open Monday to  The neat old world frontage of the Friday from noon-2.30pm offering great spot to pub is an indication of what you will fresh sandwiches, toasties, soup and hot watch a match, find inside. There are two old style Irish drinks. The off-licence attached to the “ pub booths - one even dubbed ‘The premises sells a range of beers, wines have a function, Senate’ - dark wood tables with a variety and spirits with weekly special offers. enjoy a creamy of seating options and décor including a A fun and friendly pub, Fennessys has model plane suspended from the ceiling three sports associations including a golf pint or relax with bring classic charm to the 21st century. society, a pitch and putt club and a deep a coffee The sizeable lounge area often hosts sea angling club.

2001 Did You Know? Limerick in Numbers Year Limerick rower, Sam Lynch, won his first World Championship gold medal in Hollywood Starlet 1983 the Men’s Lightweight Single Skulls (he Born in Limerick in 1928, Constance took gold again in 2002) Year Limerick Civic Trust was formally Smith was a film actress, and contract th inaugurated. player of 20 Century Fox. She won a beauty contest in Dublin at 16 and her 1889 mother sent the photo to a film studio. 2004 Year the first edition of The Limerick She subsequently did a screen test Leader hit the streets on Friday August 9 and moved to London to act. In 1950, Year the annual, Riverfest, began she was noticed playing an Irish maid in the film, The Mudlark and offered 2 a contract by the Hollywood studio. 350 She starred in numerous features Number of All Ireland Senior Hurling titles throughout the 1950s including Man won by Limerick to date Length in metres of The Living Bridge in in the Attic and Treasure of the Golden UL—Ireland’s longest pedestrian bridge Condor. She was a presenter at the Academy Awards ceremony in 1952. Her 1852 film career faltered in the late fifties. 061 Year the School of Ornamental Art (now She had a turbulent romantic and Telephone dialling code for Limerick Limerick Institute of Technology) was personal life in the following years. established Constance Smith passed away in 2003 in London. 24 95 Distance in kilometres from Limerick to Shannon Airport Sum in millions raised for charity by the JP McManus Invitational Pro-Am golf event since 1990

The Best Of Ireland Series | 89 Limerick Guide Food & Drink The Market Quarter

Nancy Blake’s 19 Upper Denmark Street 061-416443

On Monday mornings in Limerick, you can sure that a lot of people discussing the weekend will utter the word “Nancy’s” because the pub is a contender for the most popular in the city. Located in the ‘Market Quarter’, Nancy Blake’s has a split personality. There’s something for everyone and that is always apparent from the mixture of ages and styles among its punters. The Nancy Blake’s sawdust strewn front bar has a traditional feel. You can kick back in cosy seating (in front of the fire if you can) and just The back bar is darker and louder with The multitude of TV screens in the enjoy the atmosphere. The outdoor area an eclectic mix of music. The classic back sections make Nancy’s a good is open air when possible and has tables decor gives way to funky artifacts like choice to watch a sports match. They and chairs during the day. At night, the car numberplates and the large mural of also show music DVDs so you can see music is typically classic rock or folk Ray Charles. Or you can venture into Springsteen or Kings of Leon rocking and it often hosts live trad sessions. the ‘Outback’, a covered smoking area, out. On selected weeknights, the Just a short walk to the back and which also has a bar if you don’t want to Outback has live bands. you’ll think you’re in a different pub. wade through the crowds.

Sports fans will be right at home watching the top sports contests of the day—whether it be soccer, rugby, GAA, golf and more—displayed on a choice of eight screens. There are always some barstool experts waiting to talk sports. Flannery’s livens up even more on weekends with live bands as a regular fixture. Musicians who have played here include Irish folk legend, John Spillane. The stylish marble-clad exterior is one improvement made in extensive renovations in 2007 and another popular addition was the state of the art beer Phil Flannery’s Bar garden/smoking area on the second floor. Inside the spacious bar and lounge is Located in Limerick’s Market Quarter, laid out with comfort in mind, including Phil Flannery’s Bar the service at Phil Flannery’s is all about features like an open fire and free wi-fi. 2 Denmark Street the personal touch and the amiable staff There is a function room, which is 061-419761 complement the great pint of plain. available for any occasion too. www.philflannerys.com When it comes to food, quality The bar opens until 1am on Friday and value is always on the menu with and Saturday nights. As any one of the “Come in for a chat and stay for the breakfast served from 10am and light regulars will tell you Flannery’s aims craic” is the motto at this friendly, snacks and full meals through to 3pm, to be a true local so a warm welcome is family-run bar in the very heart of the Monday to Friday and to 5pm on always waiting here. city. Saturday.

90 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Food & Drink

numbering over 50. Michael Flannery’s The décor is authentic with a stove, Did You Know? grocery-style bar counter and a snug, Pub perfect for two old friends catching up Twinning 17 Upper Denmark Street or a larger group attending a Whiskey Tasting Session. Limerick is twinned with several 061-436677 places in three different countries, www.flannerysbar.ie including its township namesake in Thus began a Pennsylvania in the USA. The others Michael Flannery’s Pub is well known  are: Quimper (France); New Brunswick, in Limerick and its owner is one of the love affair with New Jersey (USA); Starogard, Gdanski city’s longest serving publicans, working (Poland); Spokane, Washington (USA); Irish whiskey Kansas City, Kansas (USA) and Lowell, in the family business since 1959. “ Massachusetts (USA). Located on Denmark Street, just and the pub has around the corner from the famous Milk over 120 different Market, its vibrant red frontage is set off against a beautiful stone façade. types Michael’s grandfather, William, At the rear, there is a courtyard opened the first Flannery’s pub in 1898. overlooked by a roof terrace with a Michael is one of the last remaining spacious contemporary bar behind. local publicans who bottled his own Flannery’s serves breakfast and lunch, Jameson whiskey from the cask until Monday-Saturday until 3pm with the mid 1960s and there is a beautiful specialties including farmhouse bread display of the materials he used in the sandwiches and fish ‘n chips. pub. Thus began his love affair with All major sporting events are shown Irish whiskey and the pub has over with a multitude of screens scattered 120 different types—one of the largest around, but not in Michael’s pub, which Photo: Brendan Howard collections in Ireland. is a TV free zone to encourage good conversation. There is live music and William, DJs most nights in the adjoining bar,  rocking Denmark Street until the small opened the first hours. Flannery’s pub in Flannery’s is one of those ‘split “ personality’ bars that has something 1898 for everyone, giving the customer the Visitors can discover all the different traditional Irish pub with a modern twist. types by consulting a personally More information on www.facebook. compiled ‘Whiskey Bible’, which lists com/flannerysbarlimerick and Twitter, @ all them all with tasting notes. FlannerysBar. Flannery’s is also known for serving an excellent pint of Guinness and offering Limerick’s largest selection of Irish craft and world beers, currently

Michael Flannerys

Photo: Roxana Gonzalez

Che Guevara Famed revolutionary, Che Guevara, visited Limerick once in 1965 when his flight was forced to land at Shannon Airport. Irish Times journalist, Arthur Quinlan, interviewed him - becoming the only western journalist to have done so. The story has it that the journalist even taught Guevara how to make an Irish coffee in what was the former Hanratty’s Hotel in Glentworth Street in the city.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 91 Limerick Guide Food & Drink

The Library Bar 5 & 6 Cornmarket Row 061-467904/086-7779955 www.thelibrarylimerick.com

The loudest Library in the world! You won’t find many books at The Library Bar, but you will find some of the best live music sessions in Limerick. With a mix of live entertainment, great service and a fantastic atmosphere The Libary Bar is a serious contender for the best spot in Limerick City. The loudest Library in the “ world! The Library Bar An established venue in the local live music scene, this bar has already Located in the Market Quarter, the of promotions and prizes on offer and a attracted some stellar groups and DJs bar is an open and airy space with late bar every weekend so you can dance such as Republic of Loose, The Original plenty of comfortable seating. The main your socks off! Rudeboys, The Walls, The Heathers, attraction is the large stage and its LED All types of parties can be catered for DJ Grand Master Flash, DJ John light wall, which complements any style at The Library so no matter what your O’Callaghan, Marco V and Pendulum. of music. With VIP seating available in celebration, you can relax and enjoy the With live music five nights a week, The our luxurious booths you can be sure lively atmosphere! Library aims to be one of Limerick’s of the best seats in the house. Serving best entertainment venues. beer, wine and cocktails, there are lots

Did You Know? Cranberries Limerick band, The Cranberries, are one of the most successful alternative rock bands from Ireland. This internationally acclaimed group was formed in Limerick in 1989. The core group consists of bothers, Mike and Noel Hogan, Fergal Lawler and Dolores O’Riordan. The band gained an international profile with their debut album, Everybody Else Is Doing It, So Why Can’t We? in 1993. Their second album, No Need to Argue, went triple platinum within a year with the number one hit single, ‘Zombie’. To date, the band has had hit the Top 20 on the Billboard 200 with four of their albums and has had eight top 20 singles on the US Modern Rock Tracks chart, as well as significant success worldwide. In 2003, The Cranberries went on hiatus but reunited in 2011 to record a sixth album, Roses, which was released in 2012.

92 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Further Afield

If you want to visit attractions in neighbouring counties, there are many options within 7reasonable driving distance. Further Afield

The Best Of Ireland Series | 93 Limerick Guide Further Afield Explore more

There are a huge variety of sites and experiences not to be missed in Limerick’s neighbouring counties, a reasonable drive away. The following are just some of the many places of interest on Limerick’s doorstep… Image: Killarney Lakes

Bunratty Castle & Folk The Burren & Cliffs of at the Battle of Clontarf in 1014. Killaloe itself is made up of charming Park Moher Geopark shops and narrow streets and crossing Bunratty, Co. Clare Co. Clare the bridge, visitors can find themselves 061-360788 065-7072295 in the Tipperary town of Ballina. Set At Ireland’s premier visitor attraction The 250 square kilometre area in north on Lough Derg, the area is a centre of you are invited to explore three Clare known as The Burren is one of the leisure activities like boating and other wonderful experiences—the spectacular largest karst landscapes in Europe—a watersports. 15th century Bunratty Castle, the 19th unique rocky terrain made of limestone. century Bunratty Folk Park and the The Cliffs of Moher are over 200 metres Village Street. Whether for a daytime high and run for over eight kilometres The Rock of Cashel visit or an evening banquet, Bunratty along the Atlantic Ocean. Over 30,000 Cashel, Co Tipperary Castle has lots to enjoy. If medieval pairs of seabirds, including several 062-61437 times interest you, Knappogue Castle & protected species, nest at the Cliffs of Walled Garden and Dunguaire Castle are Moher. The Burren has many historical Overlooking the town of Cashel, there also situated in neighbouring Clare. and archaeological sites including is a spectacular group of medieval ringforts and dolmens as well as many buildings set on an outcrop of limestone. rare Irish species of flora and fauna. It These include a 12th century round Craggaunowen also boasts walking trails and activities tower, high cross and Romanesque Co. Clare like rock-climbing. Ireland’s smallest chapel; a 13th century Gothic cathedral; 061-360788 national park, The Burren National Park a 15th century castle and the restored (065-6827693), also occupies 15 square Hall of the Vicars choral. This exciting Dubbed “Ireland’s original award kilometres of the landscape. stroll through centuries of history winning pre-historic park”, on a single site is complemented Craggaunowen allows visitors to step Brian Boru Heritage through an audio-visual show and back over 1,000 years ago to explore exhibitions. Guided tours are available the roots of our Celtic ancestors, who Centre but visitors are advised to check times Killaloe, Co Clare shaped how we live today. Immerse etc. 061-370788 yourself in the traditions and dwellings of the Crannog people, wander through The small Clare town of Killaloe was the woods to see real wildlife and see once the capital of Ireland as the 11th Immerse the magnificent, leather hulled ‘Brendan century seat of heroic king, Brian Boru.  Boat’, built by Tim Severin, who sailed The exhibition at the centre traces the yourself in the across the Atlantic Ocean re-enacting the life story of Irelands greatest monarch traditions voyage of St Brendan. whose army defeated a Viking invasion “ 94 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Further Afield

Explore more Fota Wildlife

Surfing in Lahinch

Bunratty Castle The Burren

Nenagh Heritage prairie dogs, monkeys, tapirs, cheetahs, Killarney National ostriches, lemurs, giraffes, flamingos, Centre/Museum kangaroos, zebras, seals, bison and more. Park Nenagh, Co Tipperary Killarney, Co Kerry The park is also home to many tree 067-33850 064-6631440 and plant species. There are tours and From Limerick, Nenagh is less than activity days that make for a fun family Ireland’s very first national park now 40 minutes’ drive and this unique day out. covers almost 25,000 acres. This museum is located in the 19th century beautiful expanse includes the Lakes of gaol buildings in the town. There is a Killarney, lush forests of oak and yew diverse range of topics covered here, Blarney Castle trees, boglands, mountains and is home from the history of the structure itself Blarney, Co Cork to the country’s only native herd of Red to old rural Ireland. The stories are told 021-4385252 Deer. Other highlights include historical through a mix of audio-visual elements, sites like Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey models, artefact displays and hands on A few kilometres outside Cork City and the mansion, Muckross House and exhibits. After visiting the museum, you lies the world famous Blarney Castle Gardens—one time home to the family can also take a tour of the Gatehouse to and stone. The current keep was built that donated land to found the national follow in the footsteps of condemned by MacCarthy clan and dates from the park. prisoners and hear the story of some 15th century but earlier fortifications are in detail. There are occasional art thought to have been based on the same exhibitions and events. site. It has a fascinating history, with Nearby beaches sieges and tales galore. Large parts of the castle are intact. At its top, the main Several seaside towns and villages Fota Wildlife Park attraction is the ‘Stone of Eloquence’— are within reach of Limerick by car, Carrigtwohill, Co Cork better known as ‘The Blarney Stone’. so if the weather is fine, many people 021-4812678 Legend has it that if you kiss it, you will head to the beach. In Clare, Lahinch, get “the gift of the gab”! Kilkee, Spanish Point and Fanore are Around 20 minutes from Cork City, some of the most popular beaches for Fota Island is home to a 75-acre wildlife both swimming and watersports like park featuring both flora and fauna of surfing. In Kerry, Ballybunion beach and Irish and more exotic origins. You can others like Banna Strand near Tralee are see animals like gibbons, wallabies, favourites with holidaymakers.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 95 Limerick Guide Accommodation Accommodation Best Western Pery’s Hotel Glentworth Street t: 061-413822 www.perys.ie

Greenhills Hotel Caherdavin, Ennis Road t: 061-453033 www.greenhillsgroup.com

The Railway Hotel Parnell Street t: 061-413653 www.railwayhotel.ie

The Pier Hotel Sarsfield Bridge t: 061-317179 www.thepierhotellimerick.com The George Boutique Hotel City Hotels O’Connell Street Travelodge t: 061-460400 Coonagh Roundabout, Ennis Road Woodfield House Hotel www.thegeorgeboutiquehotel.com t: 061-457000 Ennis Road www.travelodge.ie/limerick-hotel-ennis- t: 061-453022 Maldron Hotel Limerick road www.woodfieldhousehotel.com John Carew Link Road, Roxboro t: 061-436100 Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa www.maldronhotellimerick.com City BEd & breakfasts Limerick Ennis Road No 1 Pery Square Hotel & Spa t: 061-456200 Pery Square Glen Eagles www.radissonblu.ie/hotel-limerick t: 061-402402 Ennis Road www.oneperysquare.com t: 061-455521 Kilmurry Lodge Hotel Dublin Road, Castletroy Clarion Hotel and Leisure Centre Ashgrove House t: 061-331133 Limerick Caherdavin www.kilmurrylodge.com Steamboat Quay t: 087-6695289 t: 061-444100 www.limerickbandb.com Limerick Strand Hotel www.clarionhotellimerick.com Ennis Road Armada Lodge t: 061-421800 Limerick City Hotel Ennis Road www.strandhotellimerick.ie Lower Mallow Street t: 061-326993 t: 061-207000 www.armadalodgebandb.com Castletroy Park Hotel www.limerickcityhotel.ie Dublin Road White House B&B t: 061-335566 The Savoy Hotel Raheen www.castletroypark.ie Henry Street t: 061-301709 t: 061-448700 www.limerick-bedandbreakfast.com South Court Hotel and Suites www.savoylimerick.com Raheen Roundabout, Adare Road Avondoyle Country Home t: 061-487487 Absolute Hotel & Spa Old Dooradoyle Road, Ballyclough www.southcourthotel.com Sir Harry’s Mall t: 061-301590 t: 061-463600 www.avondoyle.com www.absolutehotel.com

96 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Accommodation

Sandvilla Devon Inn Hotel Deebert House B&B Castletroy Templeglantine Kilmallock t: 061-336484 t: 069-84122 t: 063-98106 www.devoninnhotel.ie www.deeberthouse.com Moyrhee Meelick Leen’s Hotel The Old Bank B&B t: 061-326300 Abbeyfeale Bruff www.moyrhee.com t: 068-31121 t: 061-389969 www.leensabbeyfeale.com www.theoldbank.ie Avondale Cratloe Road Deebert House Hotel Woodview B&B t: 061-451697 Kilmallock Kilfinane www.avondalebedandbreakfast.ie t: 063-31200 t: 063-91106 www.deeberthousehotel.com Coonagh Lodge Shanagarry B&B Coonagh Rathkeale House Hotel Newcastle West t: 061-327050 Rathkeale t: 069-61747 www.coonaghlodge.com t: 069-63333 www.shanagarrybnb.com www.rathkealehousehotel.ie Cedar Lodge Patrickswell City Guesthouses t: 061-355137 County BEd & breakfasts Clifton House Millbank House & Angling Ennis Road Coatesland House B&B Centre t: 061-451166 Adare Murroe www.cliftonhouse.ie t: 061-396372 t: 061- 386115 www.coateslandhouse.com www.millbankhouse.com The Boutique Denmark Street Berkeley Lodge t: 061-315320 Adare www.theboutique.ie t: 061-396857 This is just a selection of www.adare.org accommodation. For even more in Limerick City and County, including County hotels Carrigane House self-catering options, see www. Adare discoverireland.ie and www. t: 061-396778 failteireland.ie. Dunraven Arms Hotel www.carriganehouse.com Adare t: 061-305900 Park Lodge www.dunravenhotel.com Abbeyfeale t: 068 31312 Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort www.parklodge.ie Adare t: 061-605200 Old Castle House www.adaremanor.com Glin t: 068-34963 Fitzgerald’s Woodland’s House www.oldcastlehouse.com Hotel Adare The Orchard t: 061-605100 Newcastle West www.woodlands-hotel.ie t: 069-61029 www.applesforbreakfast.com The Mustard Seed @ Echo Lodge Ballingarry Killeen House t: 069-68508 Kilcornan www.mustardseed.ie t: 061-393023 www.killeenhouse.net Castle Oaks House Hotel Castleconnell t: 061-377666 www.castleoaks.ie

The Best Of Ireland Series | 97 Limerick Guide Useful Information

Useful Information

TOURISM: Newcastle West Garda Station TRANSPORT: Newcastle West, Co. Limerick Limerick Tourist Office 069-20657 Colbert Station (Bus & Train) Arthur’s Quay Parnell Street T: 061-317522 See www.garda.ie for a full list of Garda 061-315555 Stations in Limerick. Adare Tourist Office www.irishrail.ie Adare, Co. Limerick University Hospital Limerick www.buseireann.ie 061-396255 Dooradoyle T: 061-301111 MEDIA: www.limerick.ie Shannon Doc (Out of hours GP service) www.limerickleader.ie EMERGENCY: 1850-212999 www.limerickpost.ie www.live95fm.ie General Emergency Number (fire, Shannon Doc Centres ambulance etc): 999 Dooradoyle Health Centre, Off St. OTHER: Henry Street Garda Station Nessans Road, Dooradoyle Henry Street General Post Office T: 061-212400 Hospital Health Centre, Knockainey Lower Cecil Street Road, Hospital, Co. Limerick Roxboro Garda Station See www.anpost.ie for a full list of post Roxboro Road Shannondoc Surgery, Bishop Street, offices and services in Limerick. T: 061-214340 Newcastle West, Co. Limerick

Bruff Garda Station See www.hse.ie for a full list of Bruff, Co. Limerick registered General Practitioners in 061-382947 Limerick.

98 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Useful Services

Cornmarket Dental Floor 2, Cornmarket Tower, Robert Street 061-417566

Specialising in dental pain and emergency treatment, the practice at Cornmarket Dental provides excellent care no matter what your ailment. Located in the city centre, near Limerick’s famous Milk Market, the large team here provide routine dental treatment like exams, fillings and extractions as well as root canals, dental crowns, bridges, dentures and much more.

Family-friendly practice opens Monday to Friday Cornmarket Dental “ and also provides appointments on The family-friendly practice opens For highly professional service with a Saturdays Monday to Friday and also provides perfect smile, Cornmarket Dental is the appointments on Saturdays, 9am-4pm. place to go.

Ryan’s Locksmiths Other services include car keys cut and coded, transponder keys cut, and remotes repaired and coded. There is no need to tow because lost keys can be programmed at the car. Ryan’s supplies and fits locks to timber, aluminium & uPVC doors, break secure cylinders and IVESS anti-lift patio door bolts. Family run business that has been securing “ the mid-west since 1947

Services include key cutting, master keyed suites, access control systems, key restricted suites and much more. All locksmith engineers are The store, with its skilled and extensively trained, security vetted and Ryan’s Locksmiths professional workshop, has a great carry ID badges at all times. If you are 7 Upper William Street selection of locks, home/business safes worried about how secure your property, 061-414173 and security devices for sale as well as then come and talk to one of the expert www.ryanslocksmiths.com providing a key cutting service, lock staff. repairs. For a professional and reliable Ryan’s Locksmiths is a family run A 24 hour emergency call-out service locksmith service, look no further than business that has been securing the mid- is provided that covers Limerick and the Ryan’s Locksmiths. west since 1947. mid-west region.

The Best Of Ireland Series | 99 Limerick Guide Maps

100 | The Best Of Ireland Series Dublin (N7)

CASTLECONNELL

Clare / Galway (N18) LIMERICK CITY

PALLASKENRY MURROE Limerick County Map Key MUNGRET KILDIMO 6 3 CAPPAMORE 1. Adare Manor Golf Club FOYNES DOON Kerry ASKEATON BALLYNEETY CAHERCONLISH PATRICKSWELL 2. Ballyhoura Trailriders (N69) 1 4 GLIN SHANAGOLDEN The Best Of Ireland Of Series Best The 3. Ballyneety Golf Club ADARE 8 PALLASGREEN 4. Boskill Equestrian Centre 7 OOLA KILCOLMAN LOUGH GUR RATHKEALE 5. De Valera Museum & Bruree Heritage Centre CROOM Tipperary (N24) 6. Foynes Flying Boat Museum ARDAGH BRUFF 7. Lough Gur Visitor Centre BALLINGARRY HOSPITAL ATHEA 8. The Irish Palatine Heritage Centre NEWCASTLE WEST 5 KNOCKLONG CASTLETOWN BRUREE Please note: This map indicates KILMEEDY GALBALLY KILMALLOCK approximate locations only and ABBEYFEALE KILLEEDY BALLYLANDERS does not illustrate all minor roads. Cork (N20) 2 KILFINANE BROADFORD Kerry (N21) DROMCOLLOGHER ARDPATRICK Limerick GuideMaps Limerick | 101 Limerick Guide Maps

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DUBLIN ROAD C n n O C a s t l e A a c N t o D r o t t EL y y L RD. BALLYSIMON RD.

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History & Heritage Limerick Museum- E2 Ballyhoura Trailriders - H6 (Follow King John’s Castle- E2 The Hunt Museum- E3 Mulgrave St. to Ballysimon Rd., R513, Lough Gur Heritage Centre- H6 The Lime Tree Theatre- A6 (Follow Caherconlish) (Follow Mulgrave St. to Kilmallock Dock Rd. to Courtbrack Ave. to Mary Ballyneety Golf Club- H6 (Follow Roundabout and R512) Immaculate College) Mulgrave St. to Kilmallock Roundabout St John’s Cathedral- G4 University Concert Hall- H2 (Follow and R512) St Mary’s Cathedral- F2 Dublin Rd. to University of Limerick) Boskill Equestrian Centre- H6 (Follow The Bishop’s Palace- F1 Mulgrave St. to Kilmallock Roundabout The Treaty Stone- D1 Activities and R512) 3D House- E3 Delta Karting- H6 (Follow Mulgrave Arts & Culture Adare Manor Golf Club- F6 (Follow St. to Ballysimon Rd.) Dolan’s Warehouse- B6 Hyde Rd., Childers Rd. to N21) Delta Lazer & Adventure Centre- H6 Limerick City Gallery of Art- D6 Atlantic Airventures- A2 (Follow Ennis (Follow Mulgrave St. to Ballysimon Rd.) Limerick Craft Hub- D5 Rd. to Shannon)

102 | The Best Of Ireland Series Limerick Guide Maps

Restaurants Absolute Bar & Grill- F3 Chocolat- D5 Food Court- E3 Hong Kong- F4 Hook & Ladder- D4 Jasmine Palace- D5 La Piccola Pizzeria- D5 Marco Polo- D5 Milano- D4 The Copper Room- D5 The Cornstore- E5 The Treasury- D6 Tuscany Bistro- H2 (Follow Dublin Rd. towards Newtown Centre, Annacotty)

Pubs Bentley’s & Isaac Taylor’s- D5 Bobby Byrnes- C6 (Follow O’Connell St. towards O’Connell Ave) Dolan’s Pub- B6 Fennessy’s- A6 (Follow Courtbrack Avenue to New Street) Flannery’s Bar- D4 KASBAH Social Club- B6 Michael Flannery’s- F4 Mickey Martin’s- E4 Myles Breen’s- D4 Nancy Blakes- F4 Phil Flannery’s- E4 The Blind Pig & Speakeasy- E4 The Glen Tavern- D5 The Horse & Hound- G5 The Library Bar- F4 The Locke Bar & Oyster House Restaurant- F3 The Red Hen- E3 The White House- D5 Tom Collins’- D5 WJ South’s- C6 COLBERT STATION

EDWARD ST. Shopping Arthur’s Quay Shopping Centre- E3 Connolly Man- E3 (and other branches in D4 and C6, follow O’Connell St./Ave. towards Ballinacurra Rd, Dooradoyle) Crescent Shopping Centre- C6 (Follow Delta Sports Dome- H6 (Follow Cafés O’Connell St./Ave. towards Ballinacurra Mulgrave St. to Ballysimon Rd.) Aroma Coffee House- E5 Rd., Dooradoyle) Limerick Golf Club- F6 (Follow Hyde Café Noir- F4 (and other branches in Lucky Lane- E5 Rd. to Rosbrien Rd. to Ballyclough) H2, Dublin Rd. towards Park Point/ Silverwood Jewellery- E4 Limerick Greyhound Stadium- A6 University of Limerick and C6, follow Tailor of Blue- D4 (Follow Dock Rd. to Greenpark) O’Connell St./Ave. towards Ballinacurra The Milk Market- F4 Red Viking- E3 Rd, Raheen) The Wine Buff- D6 Thomond Park Experience- C1 (Follow Luigi’s Traditional Fish & Chips- E6 High Rd. to Cratloe Rd.) The Cellar Door- E4 Useful Services Tons of Fun Children’s Activity The Hunt Café- E3 Cornmarket Dental- F4 Centre- H6 (Follow Mulgrave St. to The Sage Café- E5 Ryan’s Locksmiths- F5 Ballysimon Rd.) The Stormy Teacup- E4 Zest!- D6 (and another branch in H6, follow Mulgrave St. to Ballysimon Rd.)

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