Adare in Co. Limerick is a village that has so much to offer at any time of the year. It’s hard to pick the top five things to do in Adare so we have narrowed down the list for you, hopefully it will help when you next pay a visit!

For those with a love of history, Adare is a sure treat, as this is a village that is surrounded by it. As you enter the village from the Limerick city side you are greeted by the old walls of the town and as you pass over the bridge you are met by views of the Desmond Castle, the Augustinian Friary and the entrance to world renowned Adare Manor Hotel and Golf Resort. Further in you will see the world famous thatched cottages and the Holy Trinity Abbey Adare. Hours can be spent taking in the historical beauty of Adare, wandering through the park, exploring the churches, visiting the castle (there are guided tours to do this) and taking in the sights of the thatched cottages, once homes to those who worked for the Dunraven family.

Although some of the cottages remain permanent residences and holiday homes, a number of the thatched cottages are now open as businesses, such as The Blue Door Restaurant and Lucy Erridge Design & Craft Shop. A visit to these cottages is a must do on anyone’s list when visiting Adare! Lucy Erridge’s store offers a wide variety of beautiful handcrafted items and The Blue Door Restaurant is simply divine, perfect for a meal at any time of the day.

Another top thing to do when visiting Adare is to take in a spa treatment at The Dunraven Arms Hotel. This beautiful hotel is situated on the main street of the village and has played host to members of royalty and celebrities through the years. Book in for a massage and feel at home in this pretty village, based just 10 minutes from Limerick city and 30 minutes from Shannon Airport.

We can’t have a list of the top things to do in this beautiful village without mentioning shopping! Adare is known for it’s wide selection of boutiques and craft shops. You can visit many art and design stores as well as ladies fashion and shoe stores, all which are located in close proximity to each other. Why not make a day of it with family or friends and see all that Adare’s shops have to offer.

After all this sightseeing, spa relaxation, shopping and exploration of this village, you will be more than ready for a good meal. To really experience the magic of Adare why not visit The Blue Door Restaurant. Located in the middle of the thatched cottages, this beautiful bistro style restaurant offers superb dining options in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you spend a number of days or just a few hours in Adare you are sure to enjoy your visit. Hopefully this list will help you when you are planning your next visit to Adare.