Limerick is a short two hour drive from Dublin and a county I have passed through or bypassed on route to Kerry. So, recently we found ourselves on a short trip to Limerick staying at The Limerick Strand Hotel. The Strand hotel is part of the MHL Hotel Collection and what an impressive selection of hotels they have, so you know you are in good hands straight away.
Limerick is quickly becoming a hot spot for travellers looking to experience Ireland’s unique blend of history, culture and charm. Nestled along the River Shannon, this lively city invites visitors to explore its medieval streets, visit iconic landmarks like King John’s Castle and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling Milk Market. Limerick’s thriving arts scene, with galleries and street performances, adds a modern twist to its historic appeal. It’s also gaining a reputation as a foodie destination, with farm-to-table dining and cosy pubs around every corner.
The hotel is situated across the bridge from the city centre, an easy walk into the town – a great location. There is also underground car parking when you are a guest at the hotel. My first impression on reaching the reception was the buzz of an event that was on when we arrived. We were early for our check in and our family room was not ready (there are six good sized family rooms in this hotel) We left our bags and went to visit Bunratty Castle and Folk Park in Co Clare, just 20 minutes from the hotel. A place I have been wanting to visit for ages.
The hotel also offers guests exclusive discounts for a variety of attractions close by and also Wild Atlantic Way day trips. For Bunratty Castle, guests can avail of 15% off and it was our choice of local attractions to visit as part of our hotel package.
This place is impressive with lots of car parking onsite, a lovely café and gift shop. The route around the park will take at least two hours (recommended at the entrance) to get around but you will need longer (in my opinion) There is just so much to do here and you really get lost in this historical park that feels like a real town. You will pass the old schoolhouse, a variety of cottages that shows the wealthy and the not so wealthy, the original castle, the landlord’s house, the local pubs, the post office, piggery, Bunratty House and so much more. It will keep you enthralled walking around the park.
Back to the hotel in 15 minutes (minus the traffic) our room was ready and a much quieter reception greeted us this time. The reception has gorgeous chandelier style light fittings, giving it a very ‘posh’ vibe. The full-length glass lift up to our floor shows off the city minutes across the road with the pathways lit up along the river Shannon. Its very tempting (if on a girls trip) to cross over the bridge and sample the Limerick night life and city vibe. Our family room was spacious with one double bed, one king size bed and a single bed – it would easily sleep five very comfortably. There is a small sofa also, which could suit a smaller child if you have a larger family or if you are on a multi-generational family treat night.
The beds featured impressive folded elephant towels and the children were thrilled with their treats. The rooms are very cosy with plumped up pillows and black out curtains, ensuring a good nights sleep. After a quick change, we venture down to the River Bar & Restaurant for dinner. The menu features an impressive selection of starter, dinner and desert options. We sample a few selections and it is superb. The accompanying cocktails are equally as nice after our smorgasbord of delicious palates. The atmosphere is a mix of young twenty somethings having drinks before a night in Limerick city centre and also couples sipping their drinks while relaxing in the ambient seating sections, people watching as you do on your holidays. We roll up to bed and quickly fall asleep in our cocoon of cosiness.
The next morning we had a hearty Irish breakfast and it was lovely to hear plenty of American accents at breakfast, chatting about Limerick and Ireland. On our visit the previous day, Bunratty castle and grounds were also full of American and French tourists. The pool here is a good size and the changing rooms has plenty of space (some hotels have small changing areas) there is also a large and small jacuzzi, an ice plunge pool, sauna and steam room. Solo parents can enjoy the jacuzzi while observing the children in the pool, very important for us mams to get a bit of pampering also.
We lingered after our check out for the popular Sunday Buffet and the restaurant was buzzing with a mix of visitors, regulars and people like me who just didn’t want to leave the hotel. The buffet offered a wide range of dishes to suit all tastes, but the dessert section really stole the show—I couldn’t resist going back for seconds! My overnight stay in the Limerick Strand Hotel was nothing short of impressive and I’ll definitely be returning for more delicious food, exciting day trips and those incredibly comfy beds.
Their Christmas Family Package –
The Limerick Strand Hotel have a 2-night Christmas Residential Experience: €535 per adult sharing. The package includes 2 nights of bed and breakfast, welcome mince pies and mulled wine, Christmas Eve dinner, Christmas Day pre-lunch aperitif with canapés, 5-course lunch, high tea with entertainment, and many extras. Children under 12 years of age stay for free when sharing with parents. Kids’ meals are charged on a consumption-only basis. For more info on hotel packages visit www.strandhotellimerick.ie
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Enjoy a luxurious overnight stay from €384 per room for two adults sharing (superior room) per night to include -Access to Energize Health Club for a rejuvenating experience, dinner at the River Bar Restaurant with stunning river & city views, breakfast buffet on Sunday morning, relaxing Sunday Buffet Lunch, late checkout at 2 pm and exclusive discount codes for local attractions.
Bunratty Castle and Folk Park – www.bunrattycastle.ie