(LIMERICK, IRELAND) — The Sheehan family recently ventured out on a 10-day journey across Ireland, experiencing the beauty of the country and learning more about our Irish roots.
Our trip was anchored in County Limerick, Ireland. This is the home of our Sheehan ancestors, specifically in Limerick City and Newcastle West.
Throughout our adventure, I partnered with Limerick City & County Council on multiple projects to highlight the Limerick region to my primarily North American audience. In preparation for the 2027 Ryder Cup, which is to be held in Adare, County Limerick, this was a great way to let the world know what there is to do in the region.
One of the major ways we collaborated was by showcasing the Discover Limerick Pass. It’s an all-in-one pass that we used digitally to gain entry to extremely historical landmarks throughout Limerick. You can purchase a 1-day, 2-day or 3-day PASS. The PASS also allows you discounts for a few local businesses and experiences. There are also tours you can join by using the Discover Limerick Pass, and we used it to experience six amazing places.
The history of this Limerick City castle is both moving and harrowing. The amount of war, rebellion and death that occured here really makes you stop and reflect. The Castle offers an indoor tour first, mainly learning the history of the Castle. There’s more than 800 years to get through! You then take a path outside and through the gift shop, before heading outside into the Castle courtyard. There, you’ll see the majesty of the Castle. You can climb up different towers and get some of the best views of Limerick City and the River Shannon. This is a must-visit when coming to Limerick.
Also known as one of Limerick’s oldest buildings, Saint Mary’s Cathedral holds an outstanding beauty you won’t find anywhere else. Similar to King John’s Castle, the hundreds of years of history comes at a price. See original stained glass windows, all kinds of historical artifacts, including some tombs that were found underneath the Cathedral years ago! This is another great way to experience a somber moment, while also appreciating the vast beauty the Cathedral offers.
3: Lough Gur Visitor Centre and Lakeshore Park
Now we head outside of Limerick City and into County Limerick. A roughly 30-minute drive will get you to the gorgeous Lough Gur, the perfect place for a nature walk. There are beautiful views of the lake, along with the green Irish hillsides that have horses and sheeps across them, as well as Irish artifacts sprinkled throughout. My kids’ favorite part? The playground, of course! This had to be one of the most scenic playgrounds we have enjoyed. Seeing my daughter swing (which is one of her happy places), with the beautiful lake and hills behind her was stunning.
Let’s hop back to Limerick City for a moment. If you’re a beer fan and want to taste some local craft brews, head to Treaty City Brewery! The great part is, it’s in short walking distance from both King John’s, Saint Mary’s and The Hunt Museum (which we’ll get to shortly). My favorite is their driest beer, The Renegade. With the Discover Limerick Pass, you can schedule a brewery tasting. Our host was Gustav, and he did a great job outlining the the brewery’s history, how the beer is made, and the different things to pay attention to while swirling, sniffing, and eventually tasting the beer.
5: Foynes Flying Boats & Maritime Museum
Did you know County Limerick is home to transatlantic flying boats?! Yes, you read that right. See a replica flying boat that was used in the late 1930s to the mid 1940s. Some major American political names like President John F. Kennedy and Eleanor Roosevelt flew into Foynes as part of their journey. If you’re a plane and/or boat enthusiast, this is the perfect place for you.
One of my favorite parts of Limerick is the Medieval Quarter. Included in this area are King John’s, Saint Mary’s, Treaty City Brewery and… The Hunt Museum. This is a great spot to take in art and history in an indoor setting. There is also an on-site cafe you can visit during your journey.
Each attraction offers a unique opportunity for travelers far and wide to gain a greater appreciation of Limerick’s rich history. It also allows those in the local region to gain a greater appreciation for each of these places, as you experience something new every time you visit. For example, in 2023 I visited both King John’s Castle and Saint Mary’s. Coming back this past April gave me a different lens to see each place. I saw it through my kids’ eyes, which was so special.
You can purchase your Discover Limerick Pass here, and unlock a fantastic Limerick, Ireland adventure.
Matt Sheehan Official 