Snuggled in a wooden and lush countryside setting, Adare is widely regarded as being
Ireland’s prettiest and most picturesque village. Situated on the river Maigue, a tributary
of the Shannon river, Adare (Gaelic name: "Ath Dara" - the "ford of the oak" - from the
combination of water and woodland) dates back, at least, to the early 13th century. During
its long history, Adare, as a strategic location, has been the subject of many conquests,
wars and rebellions.
The old town of Adare, which stood on the northern bank of the river Maigue, near the
Desmond castle, was destroyed during the 16th century wars. Almost all of the present village
was built in the 19th century. The early developments were very haphazard but from about
1820, streets and buildings were laid out according to the, then, Earl of Dunraven’s design.
He built houses and rented them, under various agreements, to his tenants, working on his
estate lands.
Today, Adare village has a rich wealth of heritage, as well as architectural and scenic
beauty. Two groups of, world famous, ornate, thatched cottages line part off the village’s
broad main street, punctuated with beautiful stone buildings, medieval monasteries and
ruins.
Situated in the centre of County Limerick, with just 15 minutes from Limerick City and 40
minutes from Shannon Airport, Adare Village is regarded as being the most unique and ideal
base for exploring the many visitor
attractions in County Limerick.
More information on Adare Village can be found on the following pages:
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