Just a short drive from the bustling city of Limerick, you’ll find a charming village which seems to have leapt straight from the pages of a storybook, complete with a fairytale manor and an enchanting high street.

Adare offers a captivating snapshot of 19th-century  Ireland, boasting idyllic cottages adorned with original thatched roofs, vibrant buildings, stunning ruins, and the expansive grounds of Adare Manor. For those who prefer to explore on foot, there’s ample opportunity for leisurely strolls as you soak up the breathtaking sights this quaint village has to offer.

The iconic cottages were initially constructed in the 1820s by the Earl of Dunraven to house his estate workers. In doing so, he created a picturesque, quintessentially English village that now hosts cafes, shops, and even serves as home to some residents.

Historically, the village was renowned for tobacco crop farming under the auspices of the Adare Cigarette Company, which was based on the estate.

It’s believed that the company employed around 70 people, who lived in the cottages alongside those working on the Dunraven Estate and within the Manor House.

Today, at the heart of Adare, you’ll discover a plethora of places to visit during your exploration, including gift shops, fashion boutiques, craft stores, local food outlets, and numerous spots for a coffee and cake break.

Among these is 1826 Adare, a family-run restaurant nestled within one of the cosy cottages, recognised by the prestigious Michelin Guide.

The independent eatery consistently impresses diners with its relaxed dining experience, earning recognition as the village’s premier culinary destination. Boasting more than 300 ‘excellent’ ratings, patrons praise the establishment for its “high-quality food” served within a “charming” setting.

A major draw to the village is the magnificent Adare Manor House, a former aristocratic residence that now operates as both a golf club and five-star accommodation. The building’s architecture evokes a French chateau-feel, showcasing distinctive 19th-century Gothic elements, including an impressive 365 windows and 52 elaborate chimneys.

Additionally, the remnants of a medieval fortress, Desmond Castle, stand prominently on the village outskirts. This historic structure was built upon an ancient fortification dating back to the 13th century and remained under the ownership of the Earls of Kildare for approximately 300 years.

On TripAdvisor, the castle holds the top position among attractions in Adare, receiving glowing testimonials from tourists. One visitor shared: “We spent the day in Adare and decided to visit the castle. It was also included on our OPW Heritage Card.

“We were able to get a fascinating guided tour, engaging and interesting. There are enough of the castle ruins remaining to appreciate the size and grandeur and visualise life as it was.”

A fellow traveller wrote: “While this small castle will not blow anyone away in elegance or size, these ruins are truly impressive, especially with their unique history.

“For only six euro, you can get a private tour. When my wife and I went, there were only five of us. She got to open the castle door on the way in, and I got to lock it up at the end. The tour guide was funny and very informative.”