Adare Heritage Centre


In the middle of Adare, exhibits here explain the history and medieval context of the village's buildings in entertaining fashion. Quality Irish crafts are on sale and there's also a busy cafe.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Church of the Holy Trinity

0.05 MILES

The dramatic tower and southern wall of the Church of the Holy Trinity date from the 13th-century Trinitarian priory that was restored by the first Earl…

2. Augustinian Priory

0.29 MILES

North of Adare village, on the N21 and close to the bridge over the River Maigue, is the Church of Ireland parish church, once the Augustinian priory,…

3. Adare Castle

0.45 MILES

Dating from around 1200, this picturesque Norman ruin changed hands several times before being entirely wrecked by Cromwell's troops in 1657, by which…

4. Franciscan Friary

0.65 MILES

The ruins of this friary, founded by the Earl of Kildare in 1464, stand serenely in the middle of Adare Golf Club beside the River Maigue. Public access…

5. Carrigogunnell Castle

5.95 MILES

At the small village of Clarina, west of Mungret on the N69, turn right to head north for around 1.5km to a crossroads. Turn left and you'll see high up…

6. Desmond Castle

8.12 MILES

Located on an island in the River Deel, this magnificent ruin is undergoing a slow process of restoration which began in 2007. Local historian and expert…

7. Askeaton Friary

8.26 MILES

This magnificent Franciscan friary ruin dates to 1389 and includes a fine cloister. Contact the tourist office for tours by resourceful local historian…

8. Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

9.3 MILES

Dating from the 15th century, square, hulking Bunratty Castle is only the latest of several edifices to occupy its location beside the River Ratty…