From sporting events to coffee shops and the best place for a drink, the TV presenter – and Irish Country Magazine columnist – shares her favourite things to see and do in her home county
Are you planning a trip to the Treaty County any time soon?
We spoke to Limerick native and Ireland AM presenter Muireann O’ Connell to find out what she recommends for people heading to the vibrant city for a day out or weekend break.
1. Thomond Park
“Go to a match in Thomond Park/ the Gaelic Grounds. Then head to JJ Bowles and hopefully they’ll be lashing out the free cocktail sausage baskets!”
The highly modern and impressive venue is best known for rugby matches and is at the top of Muireann’s list.
2. Belltable Arts Centre
“Watch a show in the Belltable Arts Centre. It’s a great and intimate room.”
Located on Limerick’s O’Connell Street and established in 1989, the Belltable is the oldest regional arts centre in Ireland and was relaunched in April 2016.
3. Oahu Coffee Shop
“Coffee and a bit of lunch in Oahu coffee shop on Thomas Street. It’s delicious.”
Deriving it’s name from the Hawaiian for ‘The Gathering Place’ this peaceful eatery prioritises its customers’ mental and physical wellbeing above everything else for the best possible experience.
4. The Hunt Museum
“Visit The Hunt Museum – a gorgeous building with a great flow.”
Perfect for history lovers, The Hunt Museum exhibits artefacts and artworks gathered over a lifetime by John and Gertrude Hunt featuring works by Picasso, Renoir and Gaugin.
5. Tom Collins Pub
“Drink in Tom Collins’, a local Limerick landmark.”
With indoor and outdoor seating and reportedly great pint of Guinness, this friendly and welcoming pub is a great spot to meet up with friends for a long overdue catchup.
6. Curraghchase
“Get a gang together for a walk in Curraghchase. It is absolutely beautiful. You’ll walk the legs off yourself and the children. There’s also a lovely coffee shop to take a rest in.”
Packed with walking trails to suit all levels, plenty of scenic picnic spots and two playgrounds, this lush green forest park is ideal for explorers of all ages.
Muireann spoke to us at the launch event of Virgin Media’s new Streaming TV platform, offering infinite entertainment from one tiny box. This plug-and-play device that will allow customers to watch traditional TV channels and stream apps over WiFi, such as Netflix and AppleTV+.
