Limerick City has changed a lot in ten years. It has really grown up. There are taller, new buildings, there is more shopping, and more options for food and culture. It has become a real city. Yet it still retains some of the quiet, old places - such as Arthurs Quay Park, where you can sit on benches by the waterfront, and People's Park on Upper Mallow Street, where you can sit over tea and scones in a park side café. These are the things I remember about Limerick City, when I lived there ten years ago.
This time I enjoyed the modern changes, spending much time in the posh Marriott and at the waterfront Clarion Hotel. I'm excited for the economic advances I see written all over the streets - and for the new art community that has arisen from this. The face of Limerick city has changed in some positive ways.
What to See and Do
Limerick has lots of art and history. The Hunt Museum has a spectacular collect of Irish art and archaeology. Tour King John's Castle. Browse the Limerick Museum. The Limerick City Gallery of Art on Pery Square is worth a visit. The Georgian House and Garden, located at 2 Pery Square, is faithfully restored to its original grandeur, for your enjoyment. Open Monday to Friday, 9AM to 4PM (Tel: (0)61 314130).
I recommend driving to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, to devour a medieval feast, and to walk through a part of Ireland that doesn't really exist anymore. Visit Curraghchase Forest Park and experience the hush of grand trees - 242 hectares of forest open year round, located west of Limerick city on the N69. Arthurs Quay Park is a good view of the waterfront, or walk along the quay.
Where to Eat and Drink
The Milk Market on Corn Market Row is a famous place to buy farm fresh food, handmade chocolates, and baked goods. It attracts artisans and farmers from the surrounding area. Every Saturday, from 8AM to 2:30PM.
Where to Sleep
For modern accommodations, the Marriott on Henry street is a brand new hotel with all the top amenities. The Clarion Hotel is the tallest building in the city, located on the Shannon River.
How to get there
By car:
From Ennis, take the N18 south to Limerick.
From Mallow, take the N20 north to Limerick.
By bus:
See www.buseireann.ie website for all current travel details and restrictions.
When to go
From April to October, when the days are longer and the sun comes out.
Written by Liz O'Malley - Summer of Travel 2007