Bunratty Castle & Folk Park: A Journey Through Irish History

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Discover medieval history and 19th-century Irish life at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park in County Clare, a must-see Irish heritage experience.

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Shannon Heritage

Explore the iconic 15th-century Bunratty Castle and immerse yourself in 19th-century Irish life at the living Folk Park. Experience a meticulously restored medieval fortress and a vibrant village showcasing traditional Irish culture and history.

A brief summary to Shannon Heritage

Castle & Folk Park, Bunratty, Bunratty East, Co. Clare, V95 WP63, IE
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Monday 9 am-5:30 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Shannon Heritage.

Book tickets online in advance, especially during summer, to save time and possibly get a discount.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore both the castle and the Folk Park.
Check the schedule for the Medieval Banquet for a unique dining experience.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the extensive grounds of the Folk Park.
Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, or try the cafes and tea rooms available.

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Getting There

Car

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is located just off the N18 Limerick/Ennis road. From Limerick, take the N18 towards Ennis/Galway. Take Exit 6 for Bunratty and follow the signs. Free parking is available for visitors. From Shannon Airport, follow the N19 to the N18 towards Limerick and take the Bunratty exit. Expect a 15-minute drive from Limerick and approximately 10 minutes from Shannon Airport. Parking is free.
Public Transport

Bus Éireann provides regular bus services to Bunratty. From Limerick, take bus number 343 or 51 from Sarsfield Bridge to Bunratty. The journey takes approximately 22 minutes, with buses departing every 30 minutes. A single fare costs between €4 and €10. From Shannon Airport, take bus number 343 to Bunratty. Upon arrival in Bunratty, it is a short walk to the Castle & Folk Park.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available from both Limerick and Shannon Airport. A taxi from Limerick to Bunratty Castle will cost approximately €28-€35 and take around 15 minutes. From Shannon Airport, a taxi to Bunratty Castle will cost approximately €20-€25 and take around 10 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Shannon Heritage

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, located in County Clare, offers a captivating glimpse into Ireland's past. The site's strategic importance has been recognized since Viking times, with the first fortifications dating back to 970 AD. The current castle, a magnificent 15th-century tower house, stands as one of the most complete and authentic medieval castles in Ireland. Explore its grand halls, towers, and chambers, adorned with 15th and 16th-century furnishings, art, and tapestries.Adjacent to the castle lies the expansive Folk Park, a living museum recreating 19th-century Irish life. Wander through a charming village street with traditional shops and buildings, and visit farmhouses representing different aspects of rural life in the early 1900s. Meet costumed animators who bring the past to life with demonstrations and stories. Discover a Regency walled garden, a pet farm with indigenous breeds, and a fairy trail for a touch of magic.Bunratty Castle has a rich and turbulent history, having been destroyed and rebuilt eight times over the centuries. Originally built by the MacNamara family, it later became the chief seat of the powerful O'Brien clan. Today, Shannon Heritage manages the castle and folk park, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the splendor and traditions of Ireland's past.Whether you're exploring the castle's medieval interiors, wandering through the Folk Park's recreated village, or enjoying a traditional Irish meal, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park promises an unforgettable journey through Irish history and culture.