County Limerick is located in the mid-west of Ireland, wrapped around the Shannon Estuary with Kerry to the south and Clare to the North. Tipperary is the nearest neighbour to the east. The 17th century Jacobite Siege of Limerick was a pivotal event in the struggle between Ireland and England and to this day the imposing remains of the city’s castle stand as testament to it. There is a host of fascinating historic and prehistoric sites to see in county Limerick and boasts a magnificent scenic countryside with Shannon as the centre of attention.
Limerick City is the centre piece of activity for the tourist, with marvellous museums, art galleries and theatres. Top class hotels abound along with all classes of accommodation. The University of Limerick Campus also provides accommodation in the summer months. With Shannon Airport only 15 minutes away, Limerick is the first stopping point for many tourists to Ireland.
At the mouth of the Shannon Estuary, Foynes is the main port of the county and mid-west. Throughout the county are beautiful villages and towns such as Adare, with its beautiful 5-star Adare Manor Hotel and Golf Course. The town won Irelands Tidiest Town many times. Newcastlewest is the largest town in the county and offers plenty of attractions, whilst Abbeyfeale, near the Kerry border, is intimate and chic.
Limerick people are famous for their sport, particularly rugby. Limerick is the home of the famous Munster rugby team, based at the recently upgraded Thomond Park. It is the only county in Ireland where rugby is probably more popular than GAA, even though it has a proud tradition in that code as well, particularly hurling.
Offering everything from the arts, music, sport and scenery and history, Limerick is a compulsory stop on any Irish holiday.
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