Location

Bunratty, Co Clare

History

One of Ireland 's premier attractions , Bunratty Castle and Folk Park traces back through Ireland's history from life in a 19th Century Irish Village to medieval banquets in a stunning 14th Century Castle.

Bunratty Folk Park spans some 26 acres of land, with fabulous reproductions of traditional Irish country cottages and homesteads as well as typical houses, shops, stores and street scenes from Ireland of the Victorian era. With buildings including thatched roof cottages from Loop Head, their roofs roped down to protect them from Atlantic winds, traditional Traveler Wagons of Ireland's nomadic folk, Bunratty House, the typical Georgian sprawl of the landed minor gentry in the 19th Century, a Post Office, Grocery and MacNamara's Pub typical of an Irish village. Various characters, from the traditional Bean an Ti (woman of the house), schoolteachers, farmers and policemen are on location in full period costume to guide visitors back in time and demonstrations of old crafts from bread baking, butter making, stonewall building and traditional farming methods are regularly held.

But the undoubted highlight to Bunratty is the fabulous Castle , whose imposing tower dominates its surroundings. Built around 1425, Bunratty Castle was the stronghold of the O'Brien Clan, High Kings of Munster and later Earls of Thomond who ruled the region. Bunratty was restored to its former glory in 1954, furnished with a marvelous collection of 15th and 16th Century hand carved furnishings and tapestries. Bunratty Castle is famous for its medieval banquets, held twice nightly all year round and is an absolute must. Comely Colleens and portly Seanchais provide the evenings entertainment in full medieval costume, as you are invited to banquet with the Earl of Thomond. Bunratty also holds regular Irish Nights in the Corn Barn in the Folk Park, with singers, dancers and musicians providing a celebration of the traditions of Ireland today.

Bunratty Castle promises unforgettable nights of merriment and great entertainment with music, song, good food and flowing wine, that for many is the highlight of their visit to Ireland.

Details

Opening Times

Visit Length

2hr

Admission

*Free Admission with myguideIreland

Information

Leaflets: Yes Guided Tours: Yes Audio Visual: Yes Exhibition: Yes

Facilities

Restaurant: Yes Car Park: Yes Coach Park: Yes Disabled Access: No