Limerick: city of art, music & laughter

Sitting at the heart of Ireland's beautiful Shannon Region, Limerick is one of Ireland's smaller cities. However, although Limerick may be on the diminutive side when it comes to size and population, the welcoming city is a big hit for culture fanatics. An attractive blend of picturesque history and vibrant contemporary culture has made Limerick a big hit for tourists. As our short guide to the city shows, Limerick is looking forward to a bright cultural future – there's no better time than to come across and sample it for yourself.

The historic city by the banks of the Shannon

How much do you know about Limerick? Most people are familiar with the short, humorous poetic form which takes its name from the city but that really doesn't say much about the reality of the beautiful town. The city of Limerick can trace its heritage back to the 9th century when the Vikings established a settlement on the site. Since then many different rulers have made their mark on the city, from Normans to 18th century merchants. The legacy of this long history is a city which boasts a rich architectural fabric. The streets and buildings of the city speak to the events that have shaped the country itself and a national holiday in Limerick can reveal much about the nation. The long history has also worked towards fostering a friendly atmosphere and vivid local cultural scene.

A city of culture

Limerick enjoys an exceptional reputation as the home of great culture. The city has produced many of Ireland's most popular writers including the late Frank McCourt who won the prestigious Pulitzer Prize for his novel 'Angela's Ashes'. It is also a popular city with film makers who are drawn to the beautiful Georgian architecture and unique atmosphere of Limerick time and time again. Although Limerick has a fantastic pedigree when it comes to film and literature, the city's most alluring current cultural attraction can be found in its music scene. Each night venues across the city come alive to the sound of music and laughter as top quality acts play across a range of genres. Here are a few of our favorite venues:

For traditional Irish music there is nowhere in Limerick quite like Dolans. Since 1994 the pub and live music venue has been regularly filled with the energetic sounds of Irish folk music. The venue puts on gigs in Limerick throughout the week, guaranteeing that there'll be something on during your trip to Ireland. The stylish, modern Millennium Theatre at the Limerick Institute of Technology is another great venue in the city. The musical program at the Millennium Theatre reveals an eclectic mix of acts and you can find anything in the concert hall, from talented local bands to international jazz stars. Finally, Limerick is home to the University Concert Hall - Ireland's first ever purpose-built concert hall. The 1,000 seat arena has an incredible audio set-up which is perfect for enjoying the classical music oriented acts which regularly grace the hall's stage.

These are just a sample of the venues that Limerick boasts and they are just a drop in the ocean. On any given night as you walk through the centre of town you are likely to hear the enticing sounds of music pouring out of a number of bars.

Taking time to relax

It should be clear by now that Limerick is a exciting and vivacious destination for a holiday and it's true that a trip to the city can leave you breathless. That's why making the most of a trip to the city can rely on taking time between the sights and music and laughter to relax and unwind. The Radisson Hotel and Spa, Limerick offers a quiet retreat, nestled amidst 20 acres of tranquil, wooded parkland. After indulging in Limerick's lively nightlife the spa is the perfect place to recharge your batteries in preparation of another great night of Ireland's most enjoyable cultural hot spots.

Excited to explore Limerick's rich history? Book your stay with Radisson Blu and experience it all.