Bunratty Castle was built on the site of an earlier Viking settlement. Norman Robert de Muscegros began constructing a motte and bailey defensive fort/castle in 1250. It is similar to other Anglo-Norman Castles in Ireland, such as those found in Carrickfergus & Kilkenny. 

After that, a stone castle was built in its place and over the years the castle would be built, destroyed and rebuilt several times.  

The present version of Bunratty Castle was erected by the MacNamara family in 1425. And 50 years later it passed into the hands of the powerful O’Brien family, a huge clan whose lands & castles were all over the southwest region of Munster.  Under their ownership, the castle was renovated and then made the Chief Seat of their Clan. 

Henry VIII wasn’t a great king for England and even less so for Ireland. He ordered Irish lands to be surrendered to the Crown and regranted them to certain families if they proved their loyalty. As a result, the O’Briens passed the test and became the Earls of Thomond, reluctant loyal “British” subjects. In order to prove their loyalty they had to renounce their Catholic faith and join the newly-founded Anglican church. Because of this, the question of faith would remain a divisive force in Ireland throughout the centuries, continuing to the present day.

Therefore, Bunratty Castle remained under the O’Briens and the principle seat of the Earls of Thomond until 1712. After this, it was sold to a Thomas Studdert who allowed the property to fall into disrepair. But in 1960, with assistance from the Office of Public Works the 7th Viscount Gort purchased the castle and restored it to its current state and opened it to the public.

King John’s Castle

Limerick City isn’t Ireland’s most well-known destination but you’d be surprised at what you can be find. King John’s Castle is the most popular attraction. Situated on Kings Island in the city centre, this huge castle rises loftily up from the riverbank. Different in style to Bunratty, King John’s stronghold is less comfort and more might. Constructed by the Anglo-Norman King John in 1200 to defend the city from the surrounding Gaelic Lords (from who usurped the lands, and were therefore rightfully angered), it is built on a site that was previously a Viking stronghold.

Hunt Museum

Limerick city is also home to a few museums, including the Hunt Museum, which houses the lifetime collection of archeologist, antiquarian, and collector John Hunt. This is the very same man who helped the Viscount Gort restore Bunratty castle in the mid 20th century. Here, you’ll find artefacts from around the world, including Greece, Rome, Egypt, the Olmecs, from the Stone Age through the Iron and Bronze Ages, medieval Christian relics, artworks by the likes of Picasso, Renoir, Yeats and more. They also have online exhibitions, perfect for those visiting from afar. 

Adare Village

Adare is a beautifully quaint village just south of Limerick City and home to a host of gorgeous thatched houses and enticing crafts shops, as well as dramatic ruins of a castle as well as several monasteries nearby. This is the perfect place to get a feel for what an Irish village may have looked like before modern times. Don’t forget your camera – no matter what lens you have, you’re sure to capture some very picturesque shots of Adare village.