Travel to Shannon - Ireland - Europe - Culture

Shannon - Culture

Shannon is perfectly placed to start your visit to Ireland. You can travel up the beautiful coast of Clare, or an hour and a half north to Connemara, or head south to Limerick and down to Killarney or Kinsale.

As the international gateway to Ireland through Shannon Airport, had built up quality facilities and services like luxury castles, modern hotels, manor houses and stately homes through to hostels, self catering cottages, farm houses, town and county homes and caravan and camping parks providing every amenity for the spirited traveller. Conference facilities of international standard are also available.

Restaurants offer traditional Irish dishes as well as international specialities to suit every taste and budget.

Five minutes from Shannon, on the right on your way to Bunratty, is Ballycasey Craft and Design Centre. It incorporates a jeweller, potter, picture framer, embroiderer, metal smith, clothiers and even a heraldry service. There is a restaurant and parking space. It is housed in the courtyard of the magnificent 18^th century Ballycaseymore House.

The old-world villages of Quin, Sixmilebridge and Newmarket-on-Fergus contrast with the thriving new town of Shannon. The legacies of the past live on in the 12^th century Ennis Abbey and mediaeval Quin Abbey.

Visit the nearby castles Bunratty and Knappogue.

Bunratty Castle is one of Ireland's great castles, built in 1425 by the O'Briens. It was fully restored in 1954 with authentic furnishings, armorial stained glass, tapestries, and works of art reflecting the aura of the 15^th century. By day, the buildings royal chambers are open for guided tours; and by night, medieval banquets are held all year. "A must" for every itinerary.

Knappogue Castle was built in 1467 and is one of the oldest restored castles in the area, originally the home of the McNamara Clan. The name "Knappogue" comes from the Irish language (An Chnapσg) meaning "the hillock," a reference to the fact that the castle sits on an embankment. The entertainment at Knappogue features a pageant of significant women in Irish history.

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