Exploring Limerick - One of Ireland's Oldest Cities

During our visit to Ireland, we used Limerick as a jumping off point for our visit to The Cliffs of Moher.

Limerick is a city that definitely deserves more time than we had available on this trip.  That being said, when we come back to Ireland, we will spend more time in this area!

Some highlights that you should not miss in Limerick include the following:

1.  Breakfast at Bakehouse 22 

This family run business is located in the Old Limerick Quarter.  They serve a full breakfast and lunch menu, but they also have a bakery with delicious cakes and treats.  It was a great way to start our day! And they even gave us a couple of free mince pies to try! If you have never tried one, George says they taste like Christmas!!!

2. A Visit to King John's Castle 

This castle is right across the street from Bakehouse 22! This castle brings over 800 years of history to life! Learn about the many sieges and triumphs at this castle, which has been around since the Vikings!

There are many interactive activities throughout the castle.  Due to Covid-19,  some activities are inaccessible at this time (like archery)!  But there is plenty to keep you busy and learning in a fun way!

The land that the castle sits on has been discovered to be inhabited for over 1000 years.  While restoring the castle, they unearthed some houses that are believed to have been Viking houses.  You are able to see some of the remnants of these buildings, while touring the castle.

Of course, if all that history isn't really your thing, the tour allows you to explore the castle towers which leads to beautiful views of the city! Adult ticket prices start at 11.70 Euros. There are lower prices for kids... and they even offer family pricing packages.

3. St. Mary's Cathedral

This Cathedral is along the banks of the Shannon River... and is just a quick walk from the castle! It is one of the oldest buildings in all of Limerick.

It was originally the Royal Palace for the Kings of Thomond and was gifted to the church in 1168.

The Cathedral is open every day, but we happened to arrive during Mass.  Therefore, we did not want to go in and disturb the activities in progress.

The cost for admission to explore the history and art of the Cathedral is 5 Euros. 

4. Hunt Museum

Also important to mention, we had two locals tell us we should visit this museum. We did not have time because we needed to make our way to the Cliffs before it got dark. However, if locals recommend it... we must add it to the list for our next visit…and we want to share it with you!

Whether you have a few hours or a few days to explore Limerick, you are surely to have an enjoyable time!

Kilkenny, Ireland: 1 Day Itinerary

Short on time, but want to maximize your time in Kilkenny? Here is our guide for a great day in Kilkenny, Ireland.

A good breakfast is always a must when starting your day of sightseeing.  That being said, we recommend that you start your day at The Fig Tree on High Street. This is also when I figured out that I should ALWAYS order hot chocolate while in Ireland…because it is SO good!

The Fig Tree is conveniently located down the street from the castle.  The first stop on your ultimate day in Kilkenny should definitely include a visit to Kilkenny Castle.  This was actually our first castle of many while on our ultimate road trip around Ireland! And it just so happened that admission was free during our visit!!!

Kilkenny Castle was originally built by William Marshall in the 13th century.  The building of this castle was a symbol of Norman control of the area.  It also marks the beginning of the Butler Dynasty, which would last for over 600 years.

The views of this castle are spectacular...and the gardens and park are definitely worth exploring too! The picture below is the view from one of the bathrooms!!!!

After the castle, we wandered down to St Mary's Cathedral.  When we were visiting there was a baptism taking place, so we just observed from the back of the church.

The next stop on our journey led us to the Black Abbey.  This was one of our favorite stops of the whole trip...and easily one of our favorite churches that we have ever visited.  I normally drag George to all of the churches...and he is rarely impressed.  But, this one was different.

Everything about the Abbey is special.  You can feel the history in this place.  It is dark and only inside...and the stained glass is spectacular.   This is a definite must!!!

The Abbey was founded in 1225 and gets its name from the "Black Friars", which is what the Dominicans were called.  It was opened to the public as a place of worship in the 1800’s...and contains the only remaining statue of St. Dominic in all of Ireland.

Another church that should be on your visit list is the Cathedral Church of St Canice.  At this Cathedral, there is a tower that you can climb for great views of the city.  Unfortunately, it was closed the day that we were there.  Cost of admission to the Cathedral and the tower is 15 Euros.

After all of our sightseeing, we were ready for a snack.  We visited Cakeface Patisserie on Irishtown.  If you are looking for a sweet treat that is as beautiful as it it is tasty, you should definitely go to this bakery! 

After leaving the bakery, make sure to take a wander down Butterslip Ln from High Street to St. Kiernan's Street. This cute little alley will lead you to one of the main shopping areas in town. 

Butterslip Lane dates back to the 17th century.  It was an area that was built below two houses and used to be flanked with stalls of butter vendors on market day.  Now it is a picturesque alley that connects two busy shopping areas.

Make sure to check out the adorable shop Butterslip and The Gift Horse.  Both are on the corner of Rose In Street and St. Kieran's Street.

If you are looking for a place top have a pint, stop by the Kytelers Inn. This place has been around since 1263!!! It is one of the oldest inns in Ireland. And has an abundance of history to go along with it. It was originally owned by Alice de Kyteler. She was eventually accused of witchcraft and was sentenced to burn. Luckily because of her connections, she was able to move to England before this took place! It is now a popular tourist attraction!

As an extra bonus. We were there in early December,  so we go to enjoy the Christmas Market by the castle. 

It was here that I was able to buy my first piece of art from a local artist.  I purchased a ceramic Christmas tree for my collection of Christmas items from around the world.  The market had some yummy food vendors, as well as live music playing! It was a great introduction to the happy, lively spirit of the Irish people!

We hope you enjoy this beautiful Irish town filled with history and merriment!