At just a couple of hours' drive up the coast, Limerick makes the perfect holiday for those who want to keep it local, but still feel like they're exploring somewhere new. The staycation has seen a massive rise in popularity over the past couple of years and whilst there's lots to do in Galway, a little adventure never hurt anyone. Limerick has got a bustling city center, but is also surrounded by picture-perfect countryside. The perfect retreat for a couple who like the best of both worlds. We've prepared a few things that you shouldn't leave off your itinerary below, but feel free to get creative with the finer details of your own trip.
If you pride yourself on having the luck of all of the Irish put together then Limerick could be the destination you've been looking for. There are several famous spots that sports fans and gamers will love to visit and first up is Limerick Racecourse. At the moment, racing is still taking place behind closed doors, but thanks to the outdoor nature of the sport that looks set to change relatively soon. In England some racing events have been taking place with limited numbers and Ireland looks likely to follow suit within the next couple of months. There are several big meetings coming up in July and whether you catch them in person, or at a pub that screens them just around the corner, they promise to be a great day out.
Despite the fact we're well and truly into the summer months, the threat of rain is sometimes less distant than we'd like. If you want to enjoy something indoors, with that same competitive edge then a trip to Fitzpatrick's Casino could be a good solution. The Fitzpatrick group is the biggest casino operator in Ireland, but the one in Limerick is their original. They're located right by the river in the center of town, so they're easy to find. At the moment almost all of the games are open, but some of the live table games are operating at a lower capacity than normal. Those who are keen to get right into a table game might consider playing online instead. Vegas Slots Online has collated all of the latest casino bonuses so that you can try out a new site with confidence without spending money. They're all independently rated on aspects such as user interface, game choice, and security, so you can feel well informed before you sign up.
The architecture of Limerick is one of its most appealing points. There are lots of options for exploring the center, but enjoying a city tour is one of the best ways to get to know an area. There are plenty of walking tours available that are usually free, but prepare to pay a tip for your guide's time. One of the buildings that these tours always take in is the Limerick City Museum. The collection is housed inside The Old Franciscan Friary, which couldn't be more pretty. Take a while to stroll around the permanent collection and learn a little about the city's heritage, but be sure to leave plenty of time to ogle at the outside too.
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The sea bass at Freddy’s is to die for.
Once you've got to know the history of Limerick, the next best way to find out about a place is to sample their food and drink. You're spoiled for choice when it comes to great food, but a long-time favourite of locals and tourists alike is Freddy's Bistro. You'll find it on Theatre Lane in a charming 19th century building. Expect to be welcomed inside by one of the owners, the whole place is very much a family affair and an award winning one at that. Stepping inside is like stepping into the past, with bare stone walls, well worn wooden floors and the inimitable glow of candlelight. The food is not complex, but rather made with the very best ingredients, by a team of incredibly talented people. All of the bread is baked in house and their meat, fish, and vegetables sourced locally. For the traditionalists, options like a slow cooked lamb shank with silky, buttery mashed potato are hard to beat. Those who prefer something a little lighter might enjoy a sea bass cooked en papilotte in a banana leaf, with zingy Asian herbs. Whatever you choose for a main course, be absolutely sure to save room for dessert. They're all prepared in-house and each one truly is a delight
