13 Reasons Why You Should Visit Limerick Ireland

While many tourists fly into Shannon airport, Limerick is not top of many people’s list of ‘must explore’ spots in the Emerald Isles. That’s a shame, because, while the Shannonside city has a somewhat dubious reputation locally (where it’s sometimes called ‘stab city’), it’s actually a charming spot, home to extensive and interesting history, beautiful countryside and a surprisingly impressive selection of art. The Limerick area is easily worth a week of your time. Here’s why…

To dip into the art scene

Did you know that as well as paintings by famous Irish artist Jack B. Yeats (who won a silver medal on the only occasion art was included in the Olympics), Limerick is also home to work by Renoir and Picasso? Drop into the Hunt Museum and the Limerick City Gallery of Art to explore the thousands of works that have found their home here over the years, displayed in gorgeous old buildings.

To experience the Shannon River

The longest river in the U.K. or Ireland runs all the way from Ulster (Northern Ireland) to the point where it hits the Atlantic, with its estuary sandwiched between counties Clare, Kerry and Limerick. The Shannon has long been at the heart of Limerick life, with virtually every population centre located along the river. There are some great activities you can do upon it, from kayaking in the city to dolphin-watching as the freshwater collides with the Atlantic.

1. To shop in the Milk Market

Market, Farmers' Market, Farm Shop, Healthy, Vegetarian

Limerick has its modern shopping streets and standard chain stores, but the Milk Market is the spot any shopaholic has to drop in on. Made up of a heap of local traders (often organic, environmental, fair-trade leaning and invariably imaginative), you’ll find anything from the traditional local produce to a broad range of craft, arts, second-hand and slightly hippie-leaning stores. It can be quiet during the week but really comes to life over the weekend.

To explore Adare

This little Irish town is a real hidden gem of the tourist scene, a spot that’s rarely on any itineraries but has plenty to keep you busy. From tiny craft stores to a manor-turned-hotel that was once the plaything of a rich recluse (who built in bizarre statues and countless quirky stained glass windows). You can kill a day walking the streets. When you’re down in the village, head for the 13th century Adare Abbey, a riverbank ruin you can explore on foot whilst hearing of its dark past.