County Clare boasts some of Ireland’s most popular tourist destinations. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, is a Glenculloo Cottage Personalized Tour Service “must-see.” Encompassing 26 acres of Irish countryside, including traditional Irish cottages, shops, Pubs and a Medieval Castle, it’s no wonder that Bunratty is a favorite tourist destination. Over 450 artifacts of Irish heritage are on display, providing both and educational experience and an antique collector’s heaven! Traditional cottages have been relocated from the different counties throughout Ireland, providing the visitor and opportunity to see the architecture of regions they may not be able to visit during their vacation to the Emerald Isle. Scattered throughout the park are employees and historians, some of who are clad in traditional clothing, who will explain what Irish life was like ‘way back when’ and even offer you a taste of scones and apple tarts.
Bunratty Folk Park served as a constant inspiration during the renovation of Glenculloo Cottage, and guests have commented that “at Glenculloo Cottage you get all the history…but with all the luxury”.
Bunratty Castle is one of the best restored medieval castles in Europe. Visitors don’t tour the castle, they EXPLORE it! The castles’ winding spiral staircases, hidden bedrooms, clergy quarters and, of course, dungeon; guarantee that something unexpected waits at every turn. Built first as a wooden fortress in 1270, it became a permanent stone structure in 1425 AD. It was fully restored in 1954, and now contains medieval ornaments which represent many of the Irish clans, and date back centuries. In particular, the wooden throne (once home to the “chair man” in the main common room of the castle, sits poised and awaiting the lighting of the great fire in the center of the room. The great fire is not situated in a fireplace or pit, as is often seen in today’s modern world; but instead was lit on the stone paved floor, smoke being drawn up through ventilation shafts carved out of the mighty wood and stone ceiling features; illuminating and heating the massive common hall. Even more impressive are the paintings and heritage woodwork art that hangs over fireplaces, reminding you of the wealth and craftsmanship of the early medieval periods. As one tours through the castle, it is important to travel slowly to not miss the hidden chambers, as some of the ornamental bedding and furniture is original.
Bunratty Castle
The Bunratty Folk Park grounds are manicured in an old-world cottage style. Both stone and wooden fences keep cows, sheep, ducks, geese, hens, chickens; and even famous Irish wolf hounds (which stand 5 feet on all four legs), gathered and available for your viewing pleasure. During one of our tours of the folk park, an Italian school girl was listening to our story of the Irish wolf hounds and asked our group, “That’s a dog?” The group laughed and explained the rest of the historical story, as the girl was wide-eyed in amazement at the size of the “dog.”
There are several quaint structures to visit while on the folk park grounds. The village mock-up is in working order, and it’s possible to drink a pint at the bar, and enjoy a tasty Irish lunch that will guarantee your need for a walk after eating. A chocolate shop, authentic school, and doctor’s quarters complete the picture.
Historical Cottage from County Tipperary
The old manor house, situated at the northern end of the park, offers a look into the “high society” that was once prevalent; decorum reminiscent of southern United States plantation houses, and French bourgeoisie. Near the manor house also sits a farm with old milling tools and field farm equipment. As you travel out of the farm you will enter into a large courtyard filled with plush cottage flowers, hedges, and Irish country grass. Take a moment to breathe in the scent of each of the flowers; lavender and roses, a gardeners’ delight.
Lastly, your trip will conclude with shopping in the gift shop. You can find Butler’s Irish chocolates, tourist bits and bobs, and the world renowned Blarney Woolen Mills store; hand-sewn items ranging from tablecloths and napkins, to fine scarves and trousers. After you have completed your shopping, enjoy a walk up the road into the local village of Bunratty. Here you can enjoy an early evening stroll, a second pint in one of the cozy pubs, or take in a romantic dinner for two in one of the finer restaurants. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park is perfect for couples, groups, and families; as it provides an entire day of enjoyment for all ages.
