Limerick Leisure

The locals of Limerick enjoy a number of sporting activities, from the traditional sports of hurling and rugby to the more individual activities of fishing and golf. With such beautiful countryside in the Limerick and Tipperary counties, there is a lot of incentive to get out and explore as much of it as you can.

Hurling

This traditional Irish game has an ancient history and involves a ball and stick, and is much like hockey, but faster and more physical. Hurling is played on the same field as Gaelic football, with two rugby-style goalposts and the same scoring method. Despite the seemingly ferocious action on the field, players rarely get injured and the action is incredible to watch.

Gaelic football

Ireland’s other native game has a large and enthusiastic following all over the country. Gaelic football is fast and exciting, using a round ball similar to football. Players can kick or punch the ball any direction, with the intention being to get the ball between the goalposts or below the bar.

Rugby and football

Rugby is extremely popular in Limerick, and despite the city’s small size, it is home to no less than nine clubs. Local games are played at Thomond Park throughout the season. Football also has a strong following in the area. Limerick’s local team plays regularly in the regional league. On the national level, both sports are followed with a great deal of passion. You can be sure to catch the games on TV at the local pub whenever they are held.

Golf

The Limerick area has three 18-hole golf courses within eight kilometres of the city including the championship play par-72 at Limerick County Golf and Country Club (tel: +353 61 351881). The other courses are the Limerick Golf Club (tel: +353 61 415146) and Castleroy Golf Club (tel: +353 61 335753). All of the courses are set amid beautiful green rolling hills and offer a challenge for players of all levels.

Fishing

The fishing around Limerick is excellent. If you are an angler, you should consider booking a day out with one of the local guides. For all-around entertainment and insider secrets, it’s hard to beat Paddy Guerin at the Kingfisher Angling Centre in the nearby town of Castleconnell (tel: +353 061 377407). In Limerick, you can get all the permits, licenses, information and equipment you need from Steve’s Fishing and Shooting Store. If fishing for salmon in the Shannon River sounds inviting, pay a visit to Celtic Angling in nearby Ballingarry (tel: +353 069 68202). They can hook you up with a daytrip on the Shannon, complete with all the kit you will need.

Horseback riding

The fertile fields of Limerick County provide an ideal environment for horseback riding. The Clonshire Equestrian Centre in Adare offers riding for all levels. You can choose from cross-country rides or horsemanship classes at the centre itself. The rates per hour are reasonable and with such amazing lush scenery at your disposal, a horseback ride is a perfect way to see the Irish countryside in its purest state.