Limerick Greenway is the largest outdoor tourism project ever undertaken by Limerick City and County Council. Following the old Limerick to Kerry railway line, Limerick Greenway seamlessly links the West Limerick landscape with towns and villages located in some of the country’s most historic sites, offering visitors a wide range of varied activities.
Whether you choose a day trip to Limerick Greenway, or include it as part of a longer staycation, there are several entry points to gain access, giving you the flexibility to be as wild or mild as you like, experience Limerick Greenway in one visit or explore in shorter stages - the choice is yours.
Breaking the route up into sections ranging from 3-10km makes it ideal for families with small children or casual hikers who can dip in and out, while others may choose to tackle larger sections at a time.
Here are some of our top tips of things to do when it comes to visiting Limerick Greenway.
Embrace the unexpected
At the estuary of the powerful River Shannon where the wild Atlantic waters meet the rushing river, discover Limerick, a Wild Atlantic Way Gateway City.
Steeped in history and culture Limerick’s offerings are limitless. Relive 800 years of history at King John’s Castle, explore the vibrant city and check out some of the incredible street art or get the gang together to experience Limerick’s iconic nightlife scene. Whether you are a visitor or a native to Limerick, there is so much to see and do! Check out some of our top tips.
With endless possibilities to uncover, West Limerick can offer you and your family a range of quality accommodation, and act as the perfect base for your Wild Atlantic Way journey. You’ll find plenty of hotels and guesthouses (family-friendly of course!) in each of the towns connected by Limerick Greenway with many offering special ‘Greenway Packages’.
Explore the vibrant towns
At the northern end of Limerick Greenway, you’ll find the historic town of Rathkeale, which boasts numerous shops, pubs, and restaurants to explore and refresh yourself. While you’re there, why not have a go at kayaking on the River Deel?
Another wonderful stop-off point is Abbeyfeale, a town probably best known for its rich culture of traditional music, dance, and song, proudly displayed in the annual Fleadh by the Feale festival. Abbeyfeale is filled with things to do, with an award-winning town park, a local heritage trail - if you've got a sweet tooth, you definitely don't want to miss out on a visit to the traditional sweet shop An Siopa Milseán!
Switch off in Tullig Wood
The peace and quiet of Tullig Wood stands out from the vibrant market towns along Limerick Greenway. Following Limerick Greenway out of Templeglantine takes you through the gorgeous Tullig Wood, where tranquility is the name of the game.
It’s also a fantastic place for nature spotting, mostly made up of native trees like oak and elm, as well as being a thriving habitat for wildlife, like birds, badgers, and butterflies.
Enjoy a picnic
Spend a fun-filled day at the Barnagh Greenway Hub, where you will find a children’s playground, crazy golf, pottery classes, the Platform 22 Café and more!
Immerse yourself in the history
Did you know that Limerick gives its name to “The Limerick” a popular five-line humorous poem, thought to be derived from the 18th century, Maigue Poets of Croom, Co. Limerick.
Limerick Greenway is bursting with historical sites and landmarks to explore. In Rathkeale you can visit the Irish Palatine Heritage Centre, while in Ardagh you’ll find The Old Station House, located close to where the iconic Ardagh Chalice was found in 1868. Or you could stop and make a wish at the famous St. Kieran’s Holy Well. Often referred to as the cultural hub of West Limerick, Newcastle West offers a range of historical monuments of interest. Visitors can learn all about the local history of the area and of course visit Desmond Castle. This Castle and Banqueting Hall in the centre of Newcastle West is the town's obvious historical landmark and a must-see for any visitor but there are also many other wonderful places of historical significance worth checking out.
Immerse yourself in the history connected to Limerick Greenway, it’s a cultural experience open to everyone – with a range of family-friendly activities to keep the fun going.
Check out the views
If it’s scenery you want, the viewing point at Barnagh – 164 metres above sea level – is the ideal spot to pause and soak up the vista. From this vantage point, visitors can admire the glorious natural landscape across the neighbouring counties of Clare and Kerry (and Limerick, of course), and even as far as Cork.
For more information on Limerick Greenway, including activities, attractions and places to stay, visit limerick.ie/greenway
