Ireland Attractions

Ireland attractions - Children attractions and places to visit in Ireland

***Visitor attractions and information - Adare***

	The Desmond Castle, Adare. Tel: +353 (0) 61 396666. This castle was erected with an ancient ring-fort, around the early part of the 13th century. It became a strategic fortress during the following turbulent years and was the property of the Earls of Kildare for nearly 300 years until the rebellion in 1536, when it was forfeited and granted to the Earls of Desmond who gave the castle its present name. Location: On the outskirts of Adare.

	Adare Franciscan Friary. Tel: +353 61 396255. Adare Franciscan Friary was founded by Thomas, Earl of Kildare in 1464 and most of the building was completed by the end of the century. It was dedicated to St Michael the Archangel. The friary is very badly overgrown and a large tree grows out of the middle of the cloister garth. Limited access is available to the ruin by way of the Adare Manor Golf club (old course). Visitors are advised to check in with the clubhouse before proceeding onto the course to ensure safe access. Location: On the outskirts of Adare.

	The Hunt Museum, The Custom House, Rutland Street, Limerick City. Tel: +353 61 312833. This is the finest 18th-century building in Limerick. The facade is a reduced copy of the Petit Trianon at Versailles. The Hunt Museum is home to one of Ireland's greatest private collections of art and antiquities. Generously donated to the 'people of Ireland' by John and Gertrude Hunt who collected pieces from the four corners of the world. www.huntmuseum.com. About 8 miles northeast of Adare.

	Adare Heritage Centre, Main Street, Adare. Tel: 061/396666. In the centre of the village is this great heritage centre. It is housed in a stone building with a traditional courtyard. There is a short audiovisual presentation to explain the ruins scattered around the area. The model shows the village in 1500. The centre also houses a cafe, craft shop, knitwear shop, and library. Location: In the centre of Adare.

	Lough Gur Visitor Centre, Lough Gur, Limerick. Tel: 061/361511. Lough Gur is a small horseshoe shaped lake south of Limerick city. It is one of Ireland’s principal archaeological sites. The site was continuously occupied from the Neolithic period to late medieval times. There are dwellings dating back to 500 – 1000 AD. There is a wedge tomb dating back to 2500 BC and the Grange Stone Circle, the largest and most remarkable of its kind in Ireland. There is free access to the lake, shores and a pleasant parkland picnic area. About 15 miles east of Adare.

	King John's Castle, Limerick. King John’s Castle is a fortified 13th century Castle on ‘King’s Island’ in the heart of medieval Limerick, on the river Shannon. The Castle was built between 1200 and 1210 and was repaired and extended many times in the following centuries. The visitor centre at the Castle contains an imaginative historical exhibition which tells the story of the Castle. About 8 miles northeast of Adare.

	Adare hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Arklow***

	Arklow is characterised by its bridge which is known as the "nineteen arches". The bridge was built in 1759, it is the longest stone arched bridge in Ireland and still one of the longest in Europe. Location: In the centre of Arklow.

	Maritime Musuem, St Mary's Road, Arklow. Tel: + 353 402 32868. The musuem depicts the strong seafaring tradition of the area and is one of the finest museums of its type in Ireland. The main attractions are memorabilia, models of ships such as the Titanic and recovered artifacts e.g. from the Lusitania. Visitors are also given a 15 minute Realplayer visual presentation on the history of the marine and Arklow. Location: In the centre of Arklow.

	Arklow Leisure Centre, Seaview Avenue. Along Seaview Avenue there is a state of the art playground for children aged two to twelve years of age. Also a Pitch and Putt club, Leisure Centre, complete with gym, sauna, steam room and public Swimming pool, tennis courts, a running track and a football pitch. Location: In the centre of Arklow.

	Sailing is very popular in Arklow and it has its very own sailing club. Aklow Sailing club was established in 1972. Location: In the centre of Arklow.

	Ormonde Castle. The last remenants of Ormonde Castle can be seen beside the Town Hall and local courthouse. Built in 1169AD on an old Viking site, it withstood many ravages until it was finally destroyed by Oliver Cromwell's troops in the 17th Century. Location: In the centre of Arklow.

	Arklow Hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Athlone***

	Glendeer Pet Farm, Drum, Athlone, Co. Westmeath (bordering Co. Roscommon). Tel: +353 906 437 147 .Glendeer Open Farm is a family run farm, the atmosphere is one of fun and enjoyment. Since its opening in 1991, the farm and family have been the subject of many TV programmes and newspaper articles, as well as receiving many awards. About 3 miles south of Athlone.

	Lough Ree is about 25 km long and 7 km wide and is the second of the three major lakes on the River Shannon. The lake serves as a border between the counties of Longford and Westmeath on the eastern side and County Roscommon on the western side. The lake is popular for fishing and boating. The lake supports a small commercial eel fishery and is locally famous for its eels on wheels truck. Location: On the outskirts of Athlone.

	Athlone Castle is one of the most interesting of the attractions in the town. It dates from 1210. The oldest part of the castle now houses the Athlone Museum which has two floors, one with artifacts of prehistoric times and one with a section dedicated to John McCormack (1884-1945), said to be one the greatest tenors of all time. Location: In the centre of Athlone.

	Clonmacnoise, Co. Offaly. The ancient monastic site of Clonmacnoise dates back almost 1,500 years. St. Ciaran, the son of an Ulsterman who had settled in Connaught, chose the site in 545 AD because of its ideal location at the junction of river and road travel in Celtic Ireland. The location borders the three provinces of Connaught, Munster and Leinster. The monastery is on the east side of the River Shannon, in what was then the Kingdom of Meath, but occupying a position so central it was the burial-place of many of the kings of Connaught as well as those of Tara. About 10 miles south of Athlone.

	Athlone hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Ballinasloe***

	Ballinasloe castle is a ruin standing on the site of an Irish earthwork castle predating the Anglo-Norman invasion. A 16th century towerhouse stands nearby. Location: In the centre of Ballinasloe.

	THE BALLINASLOE FAIR is one of Europe's oldest Horse Fairs, held on the first week of October each year. It has its origins in "The Gathering of the Hostings" dating back to the High Kings of Tara. Its formal charter was granted by King George to the Second Earl of Clancarty in 1722. The Fair continued each year and gradually evolved into a great agricultural event with the horse at its centre. Location: In the centre of Ballinasloe.

	Glendeer Pet Farm, Drum, Athlone, Co. Westmeath (bordering Co. Roscommon). Tel: +353 906 437 147. Glendeer Open Farm is a family run farm, the atmosphere is one of fun and enjoyment. Since its opening in 1991, the farm and family have been the subject of many TV programmes and newspaper articles, as well as receiving many awards. About 9 miles north of Ballinasloe.

	Ballinsloe hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Ballycotton***

	Cloyne Round Tower, Co Cork. Tel: +353 (0)21 4255100. One of the few surviving Round towers in Cork and one of the few surviving aspects of the old monastic foundation at Cloyne. The tower was struck by lightening in 1748-1749 and the original conical roof was destroyed. The tower was subject to some alterations after this. About 5 miles west of Ballycotton.

	Ballycotton Lifeboat Station. Ballycotton is one of the oldest stations in Ireland, being opened in 1858. It was established to afford protection to the shipping frequenting the port of Cork. Location: On the outskirts of Ballycotton.

	Cobh Heritage Centre, Cobh, Co. Cork. Tel: +353 21 4813 591. The centre is based in the disused portions of the railway station at Cobh. This highly imaginative visitor attraction tells the story of emigration from Cobh in the period of the famine in 1845 up to the era of the great Liners in the 1950s. www.cobhheritage.com. About 12 miles west of Ballycotton.

	Ballycotton hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Birr***

	Birr Castle Demesne, Birr, Co. Offaly. Tel: 00353 (21) 509 20336. Birr Castle is home of the seventh Earl of Rosse. A large landscaped park with a lake, rivers and waterfalls, with important plant collections including magnolias, maples, limes and oaks. The Demesne is particularly colourful in the spring and autumn, and is noted for its formal gardens. Location: On the outskirts of Birr.

	Lough Derg, Co. Donegal. Saint Patrick's Purgatory is on an island on Lough Derg. Patrick visited the island in 445 to spend time in solitude, fasting and praying. For centuries, pilgrims have referred to Lough Derg as Saint Patrick's Purgatory. The island is open today to pilgrims between 13 June and 15 August and attracts 30 000 people every year for the three day pilgrimage, a retreat for intensive prayer and subdued penance. About 10 miles west of Birr.

	Birr hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Boyle***

	Lough Key Forest Park, Rockingham, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 071-966 2363. Lough Key Forest Park combines walks, wildlife, beautiful scenery and lakeside attractions. The 240 hectares (600 acres) park was formerly part of the Rockingham Estate, home of the Stafford King Harmon family. It comprises forested areas and open parkland, tunnels, a viewing tower, ice-house, Bog Garden, gazebo and approximately 10 kms of forest walks. About 2 miles east of Boyle.

	Boyle Abbey, Boyle, Co Roscommon. An impressive and well preserved Cistercian Monastery which was founded in the 12th century under the patronage of the local ruling family, the MacDermotts. The abbey was built between the Romanesque and Gothic periods and exhibits features of both, the most notable being the row of rounded arches on one side of the nave which faces a row of pointed arches on the other side. In contrast to the Cistercian tradition of plain churches, the columns at the western end of the abbey are carved with elaborate figures and animals. The visitors centre is housed in the restored gatehouse. Location: On the outskirts of Boyle.

	Boyle hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Bray***

	Killruddery House and Gardens. Home to the Brabazon Family (the Earls of Meath) since 1618 Killruddery House is the most successful Elizabethan-Revival mansion in Ireland and also one of the earliest. The rare and unusual 17th century gardens are well worth the visit. www.killruddery.com. About 2 miles south of Bray.

	Bray Head is the imposing hill which dominates the coastal town of Bray. Bray Head was once the world's top attraction for geologists and fossil hunters, with the discovery of what was thought to be the oldest ever fossil, believed to represent the "Origin of Life". Location: On the outskirts of Bray.

	Bray hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Carrick-On-Shannon***

	Lough Key Forest Park, Rockingham, Boyle, Co. Roscommon. Tel: 071-966 2363. Lough Key Forest Park combines walks, wildlife, beautiful scenery and lakeside attractions. The 240 hectares (600 acres) park was formerly part of the Rockingham Estate, home of the Stafford King Harmon family. It comprises forested areas and open parkland, tunnels, a viewing tower, ice-house, Bog Garden, gazebo and approximately 10 kms of forest walks. About 6 miles west of Carrick-On-Shannon.

	Carrick-On-Shannon - situated on the River Shannon it is has become one of the most popular destinations for cruise holidays in Ireland. It is the boating capital of the inland waterways and boasts a number of modern marinas and harbours. Location: In the centre of Carrick-On-Shannon.

	Carrick-On-Shannon - the Costello Chapel, Bridge Street. This tiny R.C. chapel is the smallest in Ireland and reputedly the second smallest in the world. It measures only 16ft long, 12ft wide and 30ft high. It was built in 1877 by Edward Costello in memory of his wife, Mary Josephine Costello who died at the age of 47 on 6th of October 1877. Location: In the centre of Carrick-On-Shannon.

	Carrick-On-Shannon hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Cashel***

	The Rock of Cashel served as the traditional seat of the Kings of Munster, although the majority of buildings on the current site date from the 12th and 13th centuries. It is one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture to be found anywhere in Europe. Location: On the outskirts of Cashel.

	Bru Boru Heritage Centre - At the foot of the Rock of Cashel, a 4th-century stone fort, this Heritage Centre is dedicated to the study and celebration of native Irish music, song, dance, story telling, theatre and Celtic studies.

	Cashel Heritage Town Centre/Bolton Library - The library holds a collection of over 12,000 volumes, which range in subject from history to theology and includes "the smallest book in the world". In the Bolton Library there is a collection of silver, the earliest piece dating from 1585. Location: In the centre of Cashel.

	Cashel hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Castlebar***

	Christchurch, Castlebar. This fine Church was completed in 1739 and renovated in the early 1800's. The feature clock tower was added during renovations in 1807. Location: In the centre of Castlebar.

	Croagh Patrick, one of Europe's best known places of Pilgrimage, has provided a tough ascent for many pilgrims each year, climbing barefoot in the memory of St. Patrick, who spent 40 days and 40 nights fasting on the summit more than 1,500 years ago. There is a small church at the summit of the mountain with magnificent views over Clew Bay. About 15 miles west of Castlebar.

	Westport House & Country Park,Westport, Co Mayo. Tel: +353 (0) 98 25430. One of Ireland's most beautiful, privately owned, 18th century Historic Homes that is open to members of the public. It is situated in a magnificent parkland setting, with a lake, terraces and gardens overlooking Clew Bay. With a Children’s Animal and Bird Park, Swan Pedaloes, Log Flume, Train Ride and Jungle World. About 10 miles west of Castlebar.

	Castlebar hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Castlerea***

	Castlerea Railway Museum, Main Street, Castlerea, Co Roscommon. Tel: +353 (0)94 9620181. One of the major attractions at the Castlerea Railway Museum is locomotive A55, a Metropolitan Vickers diesel electric dating from 1956, which was purchased from Iarnród Éireann minus its machinery and moved to the premises where it was converted into a snug. A Railway Museum has been built around the locomotive, and the overall effect suggests that it has arrived through the wall of the building into the bar. Location: In the centre of Castlerea.

	Castlerea International Rose Festival is an International festival held over four days with various activities and social events, and an Opening Parade with many bands including brass bands and local art groups. Date Start: 1 August, 2007. Location: In the centre of Castlerea.

	Castlerea hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Connemara***

	Connemara National Park (Galway) - Visitor Information, Letterfrack. Tel: +353 95 41054/41006. Situated near Letterfrack, the Park covers some 2,000 hectares (4942 acres) of scenic countryside, rich in wildlife on the slopes of the Twelve Bens. Attractions include exhibitions, nature trails, audio-visual show. In addition there is a summer programme of walks, talks and special events for younger visitors. Access for visitors with disabilities in the Visitor Centre. Location: In the centre of the district of Connemara.

	Clifden Castle, Connemara. The romantic ruins of Clifden Castle lie about a mile from the town of Clifden, down a fairly rough and steep track. This was the home of local landlords the d'Arcys who lived there until 1850 when the estate was sold to the Eyre family before falling into ruin in the early 20th century. Location: In the centre of the district of Connemara.

	Connemara hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Cork***

	St. Fin Barre's Cathedral, Bishop Street, Cork City. Tel: +353 (0)21 4963387. St. Fin Barre's Cathedral is one of the most beautiful and interesting buildings to be found in the whole country. The present Cathedral is the latest in a series of places of worship located on the site where St. Fin Barre himself is said to have founded his school of learning in the 7th century. Location: In the centre of Cork.

	The Red Abbey Tower is the oldest piece of architecture in the city. It is all that remains of the friary that was built by the Augustinians in the thirteenth century. They arrived in Cork in 1280 and were given some land outside the city walls by the Normans. The Augustinians built a friary of red sandstone and later added the 19.5m high squared limestone tower that you can see on Red Abbey Street, tucked away between Dunbar Street, Douglas Street and George’s Quay on the south side of the river. Location: In the centre of Cork.

	Cork Public Museum and Fitzgerald Park. Cork Public Museum is located inside Fitzgerald Park along the Mardyke on the western side of the city. It has a good display on Cork’s role in the War of Independence and has a number of interesting archaeological exhibits. Tel (021)4270697. Location: In the centre of Cork.

	Cork hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Dingle***

	Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, The Wood, Dingle. Tel: 066-9152111. New Amazonian Experience featuring fresh water species from South America such as Pacu, Catfish and Deadly Piranha. Location: In the centre of Dingle.

	CELTIC AND PREHISTORIC MUSEUM, Kilvicadownig, Dingle. Tel: +353 (0)66 9159191. This vast archeological collection exhibits over 500 authentic artefacts from the Stone, Bronze, and Celtic Iron Ages as well as Viking, Saxon and Roman objects. Also features world's largest fossil Woolly Mammoth skull and tusks, a fossil dinosaur egg nest, and a complete fossil baby dinosaur skeleton. The museum shop offers antiques, fossils, handmade jewelry, crafts and gifts. Located on Slea Head Route. About 6 miles west of Dingle.

	Dingle hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Dublin***

	James Joyce Museum, Joyce Tower, Sandycove, County Dublin. Tel: +353 1 280 9265. The James Joyce Tower was one of a series of Martello towers built to withstand an invasion by Napoleon and now holds a museum devoted to the life and works of James Joyce, who made the tower the setting for the first chapter of his masterpiece, Ulysses. The museum's collection includes letters, photographs, first and rare editions and personal possessions of Joyce, as well as items associated with the Dublin of Ulysses. About 8 miles south of Dublin.

	Malahide Castle, Malahide, Co Dublin. Tel: + 353 1 846 2184. Set on 250 acres of park land in the pretty seaside town of Malahide, the castle was both a fortress and a private home for nearly 800 years. The Talbot family lived here from 1185 to 1973, when the last Lord Talbot died. About 6 miles north of Dublin.

	Christ Church Cathedral, Christchurch Place, Dublin 8. Tel:\| 00 353 1 677 8099. Viking Dublin's cathedral was built on this site c. 1030, and briefly became a cathedral priory under the Benedictines at the end of the 11th century.The present shape of the cathedral dates from the 1180s when a new programme of building was instigated under the first Anglo-Norman archbishop, John Cumin.. www.cccdub.ie. Location: In the centre of Dublin.

	Dublin hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Dunfanaghy***

	Horn Head cliffs rise straight out of the water to a height of about 600ft on the ocean side of the peninsula. They are an important colony for breeding seabirds, including the European Shag and the Razorbill. It is designated as an Irish Natural Heritage Area and as a Refuge for Fauna specifically sea birds. Horn Head has many remains of Neolithic stone circles, court tombs and passage tombs and prehistoric field boundaries. About 2 miles north of Dunfanaghy.

	Dunfanaghy Museum. The old workhouse has been turned into a museum to commemorate the victims of the Great Famine (1845 to 1847). Location: In the centre of Dunfanaghy.

	St. Eunan's Cathedral, Letterkenny. Saint Eunan's cathedral was built between 1890 and 1900 in the Victorian neo-Gothic style and is one of the most ornate cathedrals in Ireland. Local Donegal sandstone was used in the construction and the cathedral is furnished in oak with an altar of Carrara Marble. Saint Eunan's spire is 212 feet high. About 16 miles south of Dunfanaghy.

	Nearby Ards Forest Park, situated in the Ards Peninsula, has miles of walks through beautiful mature trees, miles of sandy beaches, flora and fauna.

	Dunfanaghy hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Ennis***

	Ennis Friary - Tel: 065/682 9100. Ennis Friary lies right in the historic centre of Ennis. It was established by the O'Briens, Kings of Thomond, in 1242, but most of the existing building dates from the fourteenth century. At that time, it had three hundred and fifty friars and over six hundred pupils and was considered the finest educational institution in Ireland for the clergy and upper classes. The site was originally on an island in the River Fergus around which the modern town of Ennis has grown. Location: In the centre of Ennis.

	Clare Museum, Arthur's Row, Ennis. Tel 065/682 3382. The museum houses a large number of antiquities on loan from the National Museum in Dublin. A permanent exhibition entitled the Riches of Clare illustrates the story of this remarkably diverse county. Location: In the centre of Ennis.

	A monument to Daniel O' Connell solidly dominates the old, narrow streets that meet in O' Connell Square.It stands as an appropriate tribute to the "Liberator", Daniel O’Connell, who despite the ban on Catholic MP’s, was returned by such a huge majority by the people of Clare, that it was impossible to prevent him from taking his seat in the House of Commons. Location: In the centre of Ennis.

	Ennis hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Galway***

	St. Nicholas' Collegiate Church is one of the oldest parish churches in Ireland. It has been a place of worship since the 14th Century. The church now belongs to the Church of Ireland. Local legend states that Christopher Columbus worshipped there when he visited the city in 1477. Location: In the centre of Galway.

	Galway Cathedral is a Catholic Cathedral located in the city of Galway, dedicated to Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas by Cardinal Richard Cushing in 1965. It is one of the largest and most impressive buildings in the city. Built between 1958 and 1965, it stands on the site of the old city jail. Location: In the centre of Galway.

	Galway's famous Spanish Arch is located on the left bank of the Corrib, where Galway's river meets the sea. The Spanish Arch was originally a 16th century bastion, which was added to Galway's town walls to protect merchant ships from looting. Its current name "Spanish Arch" refers to former merchant trade with Spain, whose galleons often docked under its protection. Location: In the centre of Galway.

	Royal Tara China Visitor Centre - Royal Tara China visitor centre, located minutes from Galway City Centre, operates from a 17th century Mansion. Free factory tours, five factory showrooms and coffee shop. Location: In the centre of Galway.

	Galway City Museum - Galway City Museum is devoted to the city's history, featuring examples of medieval stonework, stone axe heads and scrapers dating from 3,500 years BC, a peat fire, a large map of the city in 1651, photographs of 19th century traditional dress. Location: In the centre of Galway.

	Galway hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Kilkee***

	Kilkee is a mecca for divers. The Kilkee Diving & Watersports Centre is fully-equipped and caters to both beginners and experts. Divers can go to depths from 10 metres (32 feet) to 45 metres (147 feet). The diverse marine life attracts divers from around the world. Location: On the outskirts of Kilkee.

	Kilkee features many walking routes. There are several treks leading out of the town over the cliffs in both directions. On a fine day from the cliffs, you can see all the way to the Aran islands. Location: On the outskirts of Kilkee.

	Kilkee hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Killarney***

	Killarney Cathedral was designed by Augustus Welby Pugin. It is built in the first period of the pointed style known as Lancet arched Gothic, and is noted for its long, slender lancet windows and its acutely pointed arches. Killarney Cathedral is set in spacious grounds on a level site reminiscent of the plain of Salisbury Cathedral. Pugin used grey, red and brown sandstone with dressings of limestone. Location: In the centre of Killarney.

	Muckross Abbey is one of the major ecclesiastical sites found in the Killarney National Park. It was founded in 1448 as a Franciscan Friary for the Observantine Franciscans by Donal McCarthy Mor. In the 17th and 18th centuries it became the burial place for some prominent County Kerry poets, O'Donoghue, O'Rathaille and O'Suilleabhain. About 2 miles south of Killarney.

	The Lakes of Killarney are a renowned scenic attraction located near Killarney, County Kerry. They consist of three lakes - Lough Leane, Muckross Lake and Upper Lake. Lough Leane (meaning Lake of Learning) is the largest of the three lakes. One the shores lie Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey and Muckross House. On Lough Leane is Innisfallen Island. Location: On the outskirts of Killarney.

	Killarney Transport Museum. Scotts Hotel Gardens, Killarney, Ireland. A unique collection of Irish veteran, vintage and classic cars, motorcycles, bicycles, carriages and fire engines. Exhibits include the 1907 Silver Stream, reputed to be the rarest car in the world. Location: In the centre of Killarney.

	Killarney hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Letterkenny***

	St. Eunan's Cathedral, Letterkenny. Saint Eunan's cathedral was built between 1890 and 1900 in the Victorian neo-Gothic style and is one of the most ornate cathedrals in Ireland. Local Donegal sandstone was used in the construction and the cathedral is furnished in oak with an altar of Carrara Marble. Saint Eunan's spire is 212 feet high. Location: In the centre of Letterkenny.

	Horn Head cliffs rise straight out of the water to a height of about 600ft on the ocean side of the peninsula. They are an important colony for breeding seabirds, including the European Shag and the Razorbill. It is designated as an Irish Natural Heritage Area and as a Refuge for Fauna specifically sea birds. Horn Head has many remains of Neolithic stone circles, court tombs and passage tombs and prehistoric field boundaries. About 18 miles north of Letterkenny.

	Lough Swilly is a flooded river valley stretching 40 kilometres into County Donegal from the Atlantic Ocean. The shoreline of the lough is attractive with spectacular cliffs and sandy beaches. The surrounding area is picturesque with mountains and lakes, peat bogs, saltmarsh and woodland. Lough Swilly hosts a wide variety of wildlife including rare bird species. Location: On the outskirts of Letterkenny.

	Letterkenny hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Limerick***

	The Desmond Castle, Adare. Tel: +353 (0) 61 396666. This castle was erected with an ancient ring-fort, around the early part of the 13th century. It became a strategic fortress during the following turbulent years and was the property of the Earls of Kildare for nearly 300 years until the rebellion in 1536, when it was forfeited and granted to the Earls of Desmond who gave the castle its present name. About 8 miles southwest of Limerick.

	Adare Franciscan Friary. Tel: +353 61 396255. Adare Franciscan Friary was founded by Thomas, Earl of Kildare in 1464 and most of the building was completed by the end of the century. It was dedicated to St Michael the Archangel. The friary is very badly overgrown and a large tree grows out of the middle of the cloister garth. Limited access is available to the ruin by way of the Adare Manor Golf club (old course). Visitors are advised to check in with the clubhouse before proceeding onto the course to ensure safe access. About 8 miles southwest of Limerick.

	The Hunt Museum, The Custom House, Rutland Street, Limerick City. Tel: +353 61 312833. This the finest 18th-century building in Limerick. The facade is a reduced copy of the Petit Trianon at Versailles. The Hunt Museum is home to one of Ireland's greatest private collections of art and antiquities. Generously donated to the 'people of Ireland' by John and Gertrude Hunt who collected pieces from the four corners of the world. www.huntmuseum.com. Location: In the centre of Limerick.

	Adare Heritage Centre, Main Street, Adare. Tel: 061/396666. In the centre of the village is this great heritage centre. It is housed in a stone building with a traditional courtyard. There is a short audiovisual presentation to explain the ruins scattered around the area. The model shows the village in 1500. The centre also houses a cafe, craft shop, knitwear shop, and library. About 8 miles southwest of Limerick.

	Lough Gur Visitor Centre, Lough Gur, Limerick. Tel: 061/361511. Lough Gur is a small horseshoe shaped lake south of Limerick city. It is one of Ireland’s principal archaeological sites. The site was continuously occupied from the Neolithic period to late medieval times. There are dwellings dating back to 500 – 1000 AD. There is a wedge tomb dating back to 2500 BC and the Grange Stone Circle, the largest and most remarkable of its kind in Ireland. There is free access to the lake, shores and a pleasant parkland picnic area. About 10 miles south of Limerick.

	King John's Castle, Limerick. King John’s Castle is a fortified 13th century Castle on ‘King’s Island’ in the heart of medieval Limerick, on the river Shannon. The Castle was built between 1200 and 1210 and was repaired and extended many times in the following centuries. The visitor centre at the Castle contains an imaginative historical exhibition which tells the story of the Castle. Location: In the centre of Limerick.

	Limerick hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Lisdoonvarna***

	The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most spectacular sights. Standing 230 metres above the ground at their highest point and 8km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara. About 6 miles west of Lisdoonvarna.

	The Burren is a karst limestone region of approximately 300 sq km which lies in the northwest corner of Co Clare. It is composed of limestone pavements, which are eroded in a distinctive pattern and crisscrossed by cracks known as grykes. Underneath the pavement there are huge caves and rivers that flood suddenly when it rains. It contains dozens of megalithic tombs and Celtic crosses and a ruined Cistercian Abbey from the 12th century, Corcomroe. Location: On the outskirts of Lisdoonvarna.

	Lisdoonvarna hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Longford***

	St. Mels Cathedral, Longford is a landmark building of 19th century Renaissance style, of grey limestone with a lofty steeple. The foundation stone taken from the original cathedral of St. Mel of Ardagh was laid by Bishop O'Higgins in 1840. The main body of the cathedral is Romanesque and was designed by John Benjamin Keane. It has wonderful mosaic floors and arched baroque ceilings. Its 60 metre high tower is visible all over Longford. Location: In the centre of Longford.

	Old Garda Barracks, Longford. This is an impressive building with a neat tone facade, dated circa 1842, while nearby are the Victoria Cottages dating from 1846. These represent one of the few surviving buildings named after the British Royal Family. Location: In the centre of Longford.

	Dominican Friary - In the old Templemicheal Glebe cemetery there are the remains of a small church believed to be the old Dominican Friary, erected in 1400. However, the original Friary is stated to have been on the site of the present St John’s Church of Ireland. Close to the old ruins are a few inscribed tombstones dating from the early 1700s. Location: In the centre of Longford.

	Longford hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Macroom***

	Macroom Castle, Co. Cork. Macroom is dominated by castle walls and grounds with old stone, arches and guns providing an elegant centre for the town. It is thought that the castle was built in the reign of King John, on the site of an earlier stronghold. Some parts of the castle are still to be seen in the grounds of the castle demesne, which is a public park, with beautiful riverway walks, situated in the heart of the town. Location: In the centre of Macroom.

	The Gearagh is a mixed deciduous riverine woodland located on the river Lee not far from Macroom. It occupies a wide, flat valley of the River Lee, on a bed of limestone overlain with sand and gravel. The international importance of the site is recognised by its designation both as a Ramsar site and as a Biogenetic Reserve. The reservoir is also a Wildfowl Sanctuary. Location: On the outskirts of Macroom.

	Macroom hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Naas***

	Naas Racecourse, Tipper Road, Naas, Co. Kildare. Tel : 045 897 391. The first official race meeting at Naas was held on Thursday 19th June 1924 and included flat, hurdle and steeplechase races. Since then, the link between Naas Racecourse and many of Ireland's champions has continued down through the years. Location: On the outskirts of Naas.

	Naas Town Hall, originally built as a Jail in 1796 by the old Naas Corporation and abolished in 1840, the jail building lay empty and was acquired by their successors, the Naas Town Commission in 1854 as their new Municipal building. In 1900 the new Urban District Council took over the running of the town. In 1904 they renovated the Town Hall, and gave it the new facade including the twin-faced clock, that we know to this present day. Location: In the centre of Naas.

	Russborough House, Russborough, Blessington, Co. Wicklow. Tel: 011 353 45 865239. On the banks of the Poulaphouca Reservoir, Russborough House is a elegant Palladian mansion begun in 1741, built in Wicklow granite. Here you can view works of art by European masters like Reynolds, Murillo, Rubens and Poussin. About 12 miles southeast of Naas.

	Naas hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Nenagh***

	Nenagh Castle. The impressive Nenagh Castle with its unique circular tower, currently under restoration, stands 100 feet high in a prominent location, a poignant reminder of the first castle built by the great Butler family around 1220. In the 17th century, the castle was taken and retaken by various factions and its effective days ended when King William of Orange ordered its destruction in 1692. About xxxx miles north of Nenagh.

	Lough Derg, Co. Donegal. Saint Patrick's Purgatory is on an island on Lough Derg. Patrick visited the island in 445 to spend time in solitude, fasting and praying. For centuries, pilgrims have referred to Lough Derg as Saint Patrick's Purgatory. The island is open today to pilgrims between 13 June and 15 August and attracts 30 000 people every year for the three day pilgrimage, a retreat for intensive prayer and subdued penance. About 5 miles west of Nenagh.

	Dromineer on Lough Derg is a boating harbour, a popular place for swimmers, anglers, yachting, water-skiers and wind-surfers. The modern facilities include privately and publicly developed marinas, sailing school, children's play area, a Boat Club and Yacht Club founded in 1837, the 3rd oldest in the world. About 6 miles northwest of Nenagh.

	Nenagh hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - New Ross***

	The Dunbrody Project - JFK Trust, Park House, New Ross, Co. Wexford. Tel: +353 (0)51 425239. The Dunbrody Project involves the construction of a full scale sea-going replica. The Dunbrody was finished in early 2001and has been opened to visitors since 1st May 2001at the quayside in New Ross. www.dunbrody.com. Location: In the centre of New Ross.

	Kennedy Homestead, Dunganstown, New Ross, Co. Wexford. Tel: +353 (0)51 388264. The Kennedy Homestead, birthplace of President John F. Kennedy's great-grandfather Patrick Kennedy, celebrates the story of five generations of the Kennedy dynasty and is still farmed by his descendants. Joining the multitudes of Irish fleeing the Great Famine, Patrick Kennedy departed from here for the port of New Ross in 1848, to set sail for the United States where his descendants were to become the world's most famous family. www.kennedyhomestead.com. About 3 miles south of New Ross.

	New Ross hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Oughterard***

	Aughnanure Castle, Oughterard, Co.Galway. Aughnanure Castle was built by the O'Flaherty family around 1500 and is a particularly well-preserved example of an Irish tower house. It is situated in scenic and stunning surroundings along the shores of Lough Corrib. Visitors can see the ancient remains of a watch tower, a banqueting hall, an unusual double bawn, bastions and a dry harbour. About 2 miles east of Oughterard.

	Connemara National Park (Galway) - Visitor Information, Letterfrack. Tel: +353 95 41054/41006. Situated near Letterfrack, the Park covers some 2,000 hectares (4942 acres) of scenic countryside, rich in wildlife on the slopes of the Twelve Bens. Attractions include exhibitions, nature trails, audio-visual show. In addition there is a summer programme of walks, talks and special events for younger visitors. Access for visitors with disabilities in the Visitor Centre. About 20 miles west of Oughterard.

	Clifden Castle, Connemara. The romantic ruins of Clifden Castle lie about a mile from the town of Clifden, down a fairly rough and steep track. This was the home of local landlords the d'Arcys who lived there until 1850 when the estate was sold to the Eyre family before falling into ruin in the early 20th century. About 25 miles west of Oughterard.

	Oughterard hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Rathdrum***

	Avondale House and Forest Park, Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow. TEL: 0404-46111. Avondale House, the birthplace and home of Charles Stewart Parnell (1846-1891) one of the greatest political leaders of Irish history. Set in a magnificent forest park of over 500 acres with tree trails and walks ranging in duration from one to five hours. This beautiful Georgian House designed by James Wyatt and built in 1777 contains fine plasterwork and many original pieces of furniture. About 1 mile south of Rathdrum.

	The scenic valley of Glenmalure is the longest glacier valley in either Ireland or Britain, shadowed by the mighty Lugnaquilla mountain at 927m. A walkers paradise, it is situated on the famous Wicklow Way Walk. About 6 miles west of Rathdrum.

	Broad Lough, Wicklow. Broad Lough is a lagoon, approximately 3 km in length, at the mouth of the Vartry River. The southern part of the lagoon narrows into the Leitrim River, which continues for a short distance to the sea at Wicklow Harbour. Broad Lough supports a variety of waterfowl species. About 10 miles northeast of Rathdrum.

	Rathdrum hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Rathmullan***

	Lough Swilly is a fjord-like body of water lying between the western side of the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal and the rest of northern Donegal. At the northern end of the lough are Fanad Head and Dunaff Head. Towns situated on the Lough include Buncrana on Inishowen and Rathmullan on the western side. At the southern end of the Lough lies Letterkenny. Location: On the outskirts of Rathmullan.

	St. Eunan's Cathedral, Letterkenny. Saint Eunan's cathedral was built between 1890 and 1900 in the Victorian neo-Gothic style and is one of the most ornate cathedrals in Ireland. Local Donegal sandstone was used in the construction and the cathedral is furnished in oak with an altar of Carrara Marble. Saint Eunan's spire is 212 feet high. About 15 miles south of Rathmullan.

	Horn Head cliffs rise straight out of the water to a height of about 600ft on the ocean side of the peninsula. They are an important colony for breeding seabirds, including the European Shag and the Razorbill. It is designated as an Irish Natural Heritage Area and as a Refuge for Fauna specifically sea birds. Horn Head has many remains of Neolithic stone circles, court tombs and passage tombs and prehistoric field boundaries. About 30 miles west of Rathmullan.

	Rathmullan hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Roscommon***

	Roscommon Castle was built by Robert de Ufford, Lord Justice of Ireland, in 1269. Located on a hillside just outside the town, it is quadrangular in shape, it had four corner D-shaped towers, three storeys high, and twin towers at its entrance gateway, one of which still retains its immensely sturdy vaulted roof. The entire castle was enclosed by a lofty curtain wall. Location: On the outskirts of Roscommon.

	Roscommon Abbey. Usually called the ‘Abbey’, it is more accurately described as a friary, for it was created for the Dominican friars. Roscommon Abbey is signposted off the circular road: access can also be gained from the car park in The Abbey Hotel. Location: On the outskirts of Roscommon.

	Roscommon Racecourse, Racecourse Road, Lenabane, Co Roscommon. Tel: + 353 903 2623. Roscommon racecourse is steeped in National Hunt tradition. The first ever recorded race meeting took place in 1837 and was organised by the British military which then had a base in the town. Racing proper began in 1885 and has continued ever since, with the exception of a 12 year period from 1936 to 1948. Roscommon racecourse is now recognised as a true test of a horse's ability with Cheltenham Gold. About 1 mile west of Roscommon.

	Roscommon hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Shannon***

	King John's Castle, Limerick. King John’s Castle is a fortified 13th century Castle on ‘King’s Island’ in the heart of medieval Limerick, on the river Shannon. The Castle was built between 1200 and 1210 and was repaired and extended many times in the following centuries. The visitor centre at the Castle contains an imaginative historical exhibition which tells the story of the Castle. About 8 miles east of Shannon.

	Shannon Airport is the second busiest airport in the Republic of Ireland. It mostly handles transatlantic flights and flights to Britain. Shannon Airport also has a history of foreign military use. A large part of its business is military stopovers, currently almost all American. Location: On the outskirts of Shannon.

	Shannon hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Sligo***

	Sligo Art Gallery - Located in the Yeats Memorial Building at Hyde Bridge, this Gallery was founded in 1977 under the auspices of the Yeats Society. Its aim was to provide exhibition facilities for all art forms. Location: In the centre of Sligo.

	The Sligo County Museum and Library and Niland Gallery, Stephen Street. The library contains books, newspapers, periodicals, audio tapes and information service. The Niland Gallery, contains the largest collection of Jack B Yeats' work outside of Dublin. It also houses an important selection of twentieth century Irish art including work by Paul Henry, Estella Solomons, Sean Keating and Patrick Collins. Location: In the centre of Sligo.

	Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery. This is the largest cemetery of megalithic tombs in Ireland and is also among the country’s oldest. Over 60 tombs have been located by archaeologists, the oldest pre-date Newgrange by some 700 years. A restored cottage houses a small exhibition relating to the site. About 2 miles south of Sligo.

	Sligo Abbey, Abbey Street, Sligo Town. Known locally as the Abbey, this Dominican Friary was founded in the mid-13th century by Maurice FitzGerald. The site contains a great wealth of carvings including Gothic and Renaissance tomb sculpture, well preserved cloisters and the only sculptured 15th century high altar to survive in any Irish monastic church. Location: On the outskirts of Sligo.

	Sligo hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Tipperary***

	Athassel Priory was a foundation of the Augustinian Canons Regular. The priory was one of the largest mediaeval priories in Ireland, founded about 1200 by William de Burgo, a Norman knight and kinsman of Henry II. He was buried a few years later within the walls. The two original altar stones can be seen in the south transept. About 8 miles east of Tipperary.

	The Rock of Cashel served as the traditional seat of the Kings of Munster, although the majority of buildings on the current site date from the 12th and 13th centuries. It is one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture to be found anywhere in Europe. About 10 miles east of Tipperary.

	Tipperary Racecourse is one of Ireland's leading summer racetracks, with top quality flat and national hunt racing. Located in the heart of Ireland, amid the gently rolling countryside of the Golden Vale, Tipperary Racecourse lies two miles outside Tipperary town, close to the beautiful Glen of Aherlow. About 2 miles northwest of Tipperary.

	Tipperary hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Tralee***

	Tralee Aquadome, Tralee, County Kerry. Tel: 066-7128899. One of Ireland’s largest and most modern indoor water leisure facilities incorporating a free form leisure pool, waves, rapids, water slide and sauna suite. An outdoor adventure play area with crazy golf and model boats has recently been added. Location: In the centre of Tralee.

	Kerry County Museum is located in the Ashe Memorial Hall, a fine example of public architecture in the centre of Tralee. Priceless treasures are on display in the Museum, illustrating the rich heritage of the county. Travel back 600 years in the Geraldine Experience and you will see, hear and smell medieval Tralee. Kerry in Colour takes you on a panoramic visual tour, showing you the people and places of the Kingdom of Kerry. www.kerrymuseum.ie. Location: In the centre of Tralee.

	Tralee Racecourse, Tralee, Kerry. Tel: +353 66 36148. Ireland is renowned the world over for horse racing and for the festivities that surround a 'Day at the Races'. Tralee Racecourse is 1.5 miles from the town centre, off the Tralee-Killarney road. About 1.5 miles south of Tralee.

	Tralee hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Waterford***

	Waterford Crystal Limited, Kilbarry, Waterford. Tel: 00353 51 332200. Waterford Crystal is a trademark brand of crystal glassware produced in Waterford. A crystal business was originally founded in the city in 1783 by George and William Penrose; it produced extremely fine crystal that became world-renowned. www.waterford.co.ukLocation: On the outskirts of Waterford.

	Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, 3 Georges Street,Waterford. Tel : 051 874757. Designed by John Roberts and built in 1793, the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity is almost 213 years old and is Ireland's oldest Catholic Cathedral. Location: In the centre of Waterford.

	Waterford Church and Tower - Reginald's Tower: The tower was allegedly founded by Reginald the Dane in 1003, but it is probably a 13th century Norman tower. In 1463 a mint was established in it. In the 19th century it was used as a prison. The City Museum, displaying the City Regalia etc., is housed on the upper floors. Location: In the centre of Waterford.

	Curraghmore House & Gardens, Portlaw, County Waterford. Magnificent home of the Marquis of Waterford and his ancestors since 1170. The grounds include a magnificent Arboretum and shell grotto. Contact Lord Waterford on +353 (0)51 387102 for detailed opening hours for the house and gardens. About 10 miles west of Waterford.

	Waterford hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Westport***

	Croagh Patrick, one of Europe's best known places of Pilgrimage, has provided a tough ascent for many pilgrims each year, climbing barefoot in the memory of St. Patrick, who spent 40 days and 40 nights fasting on the summit more than 1,500 years ago. There is a small church at the summit of the mountain with magnificent views over Clew Bay. About 6 miles west of Westport.

	Westport House & Country Park,Westport, Co Mayo. Tel: +353 (0) 98 25430. One of Ireland's most beautiful, privately owned, 18th century Historic Homes that is open to members of the public. It is situated in a magnificent parkland setting, with a lake, terraces and gardens overlooking Clew Bay. With a Children’s Animal and Bird Park, Swan Pedaloes, Log Flume, Train Ride and Jungle World. Location: On the outskirts of Westport.

	Clew Bay Heritage Centre, The Quay, Westport. TEL: 098-26852. Situated in a 19th century building, the Clew Bay Heritage Centre, traces the history of the planned town of Westport and the Clew Bay area from pre-Christian times to the present. Location: In the centre of Westport.

	Westport hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Wexford***

	Wexford Wildlife Reserve. Wexford is widely known as the best county in Ireland for bird watching. This well-equipped visitor centre has many exhibitions and an informative audio-visual show. The park is sign posted just outside Wexford town on the R741 between Ferrybank and Castlebridge. About 3 miles north of Wexford.

	Yola Farmstead Folk Park, Tagoat, Rosslare, Co. Wexford. This 18th century themed farmstead is located between Wexford town and Rosslare Europort. Featuring a restored farm house, forge, school house, working mill, thatched cottage, mini-farm, play area, aviary and craft shop. About 7 miles south of Wexford.

	Wexford County Museum, Castle Hill, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford. A 13th-century Norman castle, built by the Prendergast family, and opened to the public in 1962. The museum houses artefacts from all walks of early Wexford and Irish community life; military, maritime, agricultural and ecclesiastical. About 9 miles north of Wexford.

	Wexford hotels

***Visitor attractions and information - Wicklow***

	Wicklow Head and Reef. This is the most easterly point of land in the Republic of Ireland and a strong tidal current passes the headland. The present lighthouse is the most recent of three towers which stand on the head. Wicklow Head is 84 metres (275 feet) high. About 2 miles east of Wicklow.

	Broad Lough, Wicklow. Broad Lough is a lagoon, approximately 3 km in length, at the mouth of the Vartry River. The southern part of the lagoon narrows into the Leitrim River, which continues for a short distance to the sea at Wicklow Harbour. Broad Lough supports a variety of waterfowl species. Location: On the outskirts of Wicklow.

	Wicklow hotels

NEARBY COUNTIES - ATTRACTIONS AND INFORMATION

	North of Ireland attractions