Bunratty Castle by RickinDutch
Probably should be listed under Shannon or County Clare, but since Limerick is the closest big city I'll put it here. Bunratty is a finely restored castle that is completely accessible and also has a great display of rural life in the village immediately behind that castle. Well worth a visit!The view from the castle turrets of the Shannon River is great. The thatched roofed cottages are full of artifacts from times gone by and I understand that during the summer they have folks dressed in period costume performing many of the tasks that needed to be done back then. You come away with a real feel for life in rural Ireland in times past -or not so long ago as my Mom claims.
The castle puts on a medieval banquet nightly that I have heard mixed reviews of. Many seemed to enjoy the music, food and acts performed. Others thought the folks putting it on were less than enthusiastic.
Also on the grounds is Durty Nellie's a pub famous to locals and tourists alike. My mom went here as a young lass starting her courting days in the early 40's and she was amazed at how much was the same.
