Shannon is a new town in County Clare, Ireland, situated on the estuary of the River Shannon which gives it its name. Home to Shannon Airport, it lies halfway between the city of Limerick, in County Limerick, and Ennis, the county town of County Clare, and is thus conveniently located for visiting both counties.
Shannon is a new town, built in the 1960s on reclaimed marshland by the airport. Originally intended as a home for the many workers at the airport and in the supporting industries, over the years it has developed into a thriving community with a growing population and excellent facilities.
Sport in ShannonCounty Clare is well known for its many golf courses, many less than an hour away from Shannon. County Limerick and County Kerry also offer excellent golf courses within easy, ahem, driving distance.
The River Shannon is the longest in Ireland, and provides excellent opportunities for fishing, watersports and boating. Angling is extremely popular in the region, with salmon, trout and eel in plentiful supply.
Shopping in ShannonShannon offers a wide range of shops, mostly based around the modern Skycourt Shopping Centre, opened in 2004 and boasting over 55 shops. In addition, Shannon Airport houses the world’s first duty free shop, established in 1947.
Attractions in and Around ShannonLess than three miles from Shannon, Bunratty Castle was built in the early 1400s, and is the best preserved medieval castle in Ireland. The castle was restored in 1954, and is home to a collection of furniture, tapestries and works of art from the 15th and 16th centuries. It is famous for its nightly medieval banquets, held in the Great Hall, where diners can enjoy food and wine while being entertained with ancient Irish songs from the Bunratty Singers.
Bunratty Folk Park adjoins the castle, and is a living museum with over 30 buildings on a 26 acre site, which aims to give visitors a taste of 19th century Irish village life. The buildings are a selection of typical period Irish houses and shops, and include a fully licensed pub where you can enjoy a pint while stepping back in time.
The stunning Cliffs of Moher are just 30 miles away, and offer spectacular views of the Aran Isles and Galway Bay to the north, Loop Head to the south, and of course the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The cliffs are also home to a vast seabird nesting colony, with many thousands of puffins, razorbills, choughs, guillemots and kittiwakes on display. In recent years the cliffs have become a popular destination for surfers, enjoying the large waves rolling in from the Atlantic Ocean.
Visit ShannonWith its handy location between Ennis and Limerick and its excellent transport links, Shannon makes a great base for exploring the west of Ireland. There is truly something for everyone here, from historical and natural attractions, sports and leisure opportunities, great shopping, fine dining and of course a healthy selection of pubs, where you can enjoy a pint and a traditional Irish evening’s entertainment.