Looking for something to do with your child in Limerick? Jill tells us why a visit to King John’s Castle should be on your list if you’re planning a day out at an Irish castle with the family.
King John’s Castle sits on King’s Island in Limerick city, right on the banks of the River Shannon. A few years ago the castle underwent a major redevelopment, working with the same team behind the Titanic Experience in Belfast, and reopened with a completely refreshed visitor experience. We took our daughters, aged 11 and 8, to see for ourselves what a family visit is like.
What is it?
King John’s Castle is one of Ireland’s best-preserved Anglo-Norman castles. The walls, towers and fortifications still stand today, and the site is run as a visitor attraction by Shannon Heritage. It’s named after King John, brother of Richard I of England (the “Richard the Lionheart” of Robin Hood and the crusades fame), who ordered the castle to be built — though he never actually visited it himself.
The exhibition experience
Since its redevelopment, the castle has offered a modern visitor experience covering over 800 years of history. There’s touch-screen technology bringing to life tales of siege and warfare, computer-generated imagery and animations, and the chance to try on historic costumes — from 18th-century dresses to chainmail tunics. 3D models, discovery drawers and audio-visual displays help bring the castle’s story to life for visitors of all ages.
What did Jill and her family think of it?
Everyone in our family thoroughly enjoyed the whole castle visit. The exhibits are so well done — there’s so much to look at, watch and read.
The exhibits take you from early Anglo-Norman times through to the Siege of Limerick Castle in 1642.
Along the way there are the usual information panels to read, but the great thing about the ones at King John’s Castle is that there’s text at a lower height, written for younger kids. So often museums forget that children are smaller and find it harder to read information posted up high!
There are touch screens to learn more about different aspects of the history, and drawers to pull out with items and information inside. We also liked that there were three short films spread throughout the exhibits, so you could take a breather, learn some history, and then move on to explore more.
There’s plenty to keep younger children entertained too: they can try on costumes, play games, build things, touch replica items (a nice change to see a “please touch” sign for once) and run in and out of corners, even crawling through a “siege tunnel”.
We all loved the full-length video screens featuring actors who speak to you as though you’re having a conversation, sharing their story with you directly. It’s a really effective use of technology to bring history to life for kids and adults alike.
From there you head outside to the archaeology section, where you can see the outline of an original Viking house, followed by the Great Hall foundations and a climb up into the towers. There are buildings and tents in the courtyard with more exhibits, plus people in costume who are happy to answer questions and tell you more about life at the castle.
Our final stop was the cafe and gift shop.
If we had one small quibble, it was that the gift shop leaned heavily on generic tourist souvenirs rather than items linked to the castle’s history or to Limerick itself. Given how popular history-themed books and games are with kids, there’s plenty of scope for a shop that reflects the attraction it sits inside. But that’s a minor point next to what is otherwise a really enjoyable family day out.
Tell us in 5 words why we should go
True history brought to life!
Planning your visit
If you’re thinking of making King John’s Castle part of your own visit to an Irish castle, it’s worth checking current opening times, admission prices and any booking requirements directly with Shannon Heritage before you travel, as these can change with the seasons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is King John’s Castle located?
King John’s Castle is on King’s Island in Limerick city, right beside the River Shannon.
Is King John’s Castle suitable for young children?
Yes. The exhibition is designed with families in mind, with information panels pitched at children’s height, costumes and games to try, replica items kids are encouraged to touch, and even a “siege tunnel” to crawl through.
How long does a visit to King John’s Castle take?
Families visiting with children should allow enough time to explore the indoor exhibition, the outdoor archaeology area, the towers and the courtyard at a relaxed pace, plus a stop at the cafe. Exact timings will depend on your children’s ages and interests.
Who built King John’s Castle and why is it named after him?
The castle was built on the orders of King John, brother of Richard I of England (“Richard the Lionheart”). Despite giving his name to the castle, King John never actually visited it.
What can visitors see and do at the castle?
Highlights include interactive touch-screen exhibits, costumes to try on, discovery drawers, short films, full-length video screens with costumed actors, outdoor archaeological remains including a Viking house outline and the Great Hall foundations, and courtyard areas with costumed interpreters.
Related Articles
- Family Days Out in Limerick
- More Irish Castles Worth Visiting with Kids
- Fun Ways to Teach Kids About Irish History
- Great Outdoor Adventures for Families in Munster
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