Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

hotels near Bunratty CastleTwo rare attractions that appeal to all ages and provide a chance to experience life in the 15th century. As you enter under the walls of Bunratty Castle, look up at the ‘murder holes’ where defenders of the castle poured boiling oil on attackers below.

The castle hosts medieval banquets nightly. Staff who are dressed in 15th century clothes will lead guests to a reception room, where you’ll quaff mead made from fermented honey, apple juice, clover and heather. Sitting down at long wooden tables lit by candlelight in the great hall you’ll don a bib, which you’ll need before you dig into a four-course meal medieval-style with your fingers. Serving ‘wenches’ take time out to sing a few Irish ballads or play the harp.

The Folk Park recreates a village of the time with examples of how people lived and worked. It includes a blacksmith’s forge, a mill, bread-maker, candle maker, thatching and other traditional skills. A highlight is having your photo taken in a costume of the day before enjoying a ceili (traditional Irish night)
Reservations are advisable.

Location
  • 51miles/ 83 kms from Hotel
Cost
  • Bunratty Castle & Folk Park €10.00 (book on-line for best offers)
  • Banqueting prices vary see www.shannonheritage.com
Cost
  • A minimum of 1.5 hrs to visit Bunratty (castle closes at 4pm each day and the park at 5.30pm