Events

A new series of medieval courtyard games are set to bring the courtyard of King John’s Castle to life and are similar to the types of games that people would have enjoyed on fair days back in medieval times. Hand crafted, these new additions to the courtyard offer the perfect option for a day out for visitors and locals alike.

Games includes a medieval seesaw, medieval noughts and crosses, medieval archery, horseshoe throwing, Tug O War, hopscotch, Quoits (Ring Tossing) and medieval storytelling. All games are suitable for adults and children and friendly castle characters dressed in mediaeval costumes will be on hand to assist.

Visitors will have the opportunity to take in stunning views of Limerick City in one of the most unique ways, by abseiling down the historic walls of King John’s Castle. The team at King John’s Castle have partnered up with Nevsail Watersports to bring this exhilarating experience to life. Available on selected dates throughout June, July and August, visitors can take in the sheer beauty and scale of Limerick City’s most iconic building in the most exciting way possible. Available to visitors 10 years old and over.

Commenting on the reopening of the Castle, Vanessa McTigue of Shannon Heritage said: “We are delighted to reopen King John’s Castle to the public. After what has been a really difficult period, it is wonderful to be able to open our doors to the public once again. In doing so we wanted to enhance our offering, at no extra cost to our customers, and we are delighted to launch our new medieval courtyard games hand crafted by our own team.  We have a full programme of Covid-19 safety measures in place throughout the Castle and courtyard so our visitors can concentrate on enjoying the experience and making memories to treasure.”

Shannon Heritage has been accredited with the Fáilte Ireland Covid19 Safety Charter for its COVID-19 safety protocols. You can read the safety charter here https://www.kingjohnscastle.com/visitor-info/health-and-safety-charter/

From exploring the castle’s interactive exhibition, enjoying the magnificent views and experiencing the lifestyle of a Norman soldier, visitors have the unique opportunity to discover the stories of King John, the noble knights, and rebellious natives.  

The interactive exhibition uses exciting 21st century touch screen technology, 3D models and discovery drawers are among the exciting techniques that will connect you to tales of siege and warfare.  A dazzling array of computer-generated animations and ghostly projections greet you at every turn as you travel back through 800 years of Limerick’s history.

Exploring the castle’s ancient towers, you can also enjoy spectacular views from across the roaring River Shannon and the rooftops of Limerick City. The view from the top of this dramatic fortress is second to none and boasts some of the best selfie spots Limerick City has to offer!

To ensure proper social distancing, pre booking for a King John’s Castle visit is essential. Tickets will go on sale from Thursday 13^th May.

To book an abseiling experience which includes full access to King John’s Castle interactive exhibition and courtyard games visit https://www.kingjohnscastle.com/news-events/news/courtyard-games/ Pre booking is essential.