Step onto the cobblestones of Ennis, County Clare, where the River Fergus whispers stories through a town that's been beating to its own rhythm since the 13th century. Founded by the O'Brien kings as a Franciscan settlement, this medieval gem clings to its roots with narrow "bow way" laneways arching overhead like time-capsule passageways. By day, explore Ennis Friary's limestone saints and Clare Museum's 6,000-year history; by night, let the fiddles and flutes of trad sessions in atmospheric pubs like Cois na hAbhna sweep you into Ireland's musical soul. Just a stone's throw from the Cliffs of Moher's roaring Atlantic edge and The Burren's moon-like limestone plains, Ennis is both gateway to Clare's wild beauty and a destination rich with its own treasures - from boutique shops lining Parnell Street to Glór Theatre's vibrant arts scene.
This International Purple Flag town balances rustic charm with modern hospitality, earning Tidy Town accolades for streets so inviting they feel like a well-loved novel. Whether you're tracing Daniel O'Connell's statue in the square, cycling the River Fergus sculpture trail, or diving into Ennis Farmers' Market's organic bounty, every moment hums with authenticity. With Shannon Airport a 20-minute drive and rail links to Galway's vibrancy, Ennis isn't just Clare's capital - it's Ireland's secret art gallery, where history dances with the present along every cobblestone.
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Things to See and Do
Cliffs of Moher
Spectacular 200m-high sea cliffs with visitor center exhibits, walking trails, and stunning views from O'Brien's Tower (45-minute drive southwest of Ennis).
The Burren National Park
Unique karst landscape 15 minutes north of Ennis, featuring rare alpine/arctic plants, hiking trails like the Lough Avalla Loop, and underground rivers. Offers guided tours.
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
15th-century castle with medieval furniture collection and costumed guides. Adjacent folk park recreates 19th century Ireland with workshops, banquets, and period architecture.
Ennis Friary
A 13th-century Franciscan friary established by the O'Brien clan, featuring well-preserved Gothic architecture and intricate limestone sculptures of saints.
Clare Museum
Housed in a former nunnery, this museum showcases County Clare's history over 6,000 years through artifacts like medieval carvings and interactive exhibits. Free admission located downtown.
Wild Atlantic Way
Ennis serves as the gateway to this scenic coastal route exploring rugged cliffs, surfing spots in Lahinch, and remote villages along Ireland's western coast.
Quin Abbey
Magnificent 14th-century Gothic abbey just outside Ennis, noted for its vaulted ceilings and tranquil cloisters. Features a visitor center explaining its tumultuous history.
Glór Theatre & Arts Centre
Clare's flagship arts venue presenting theatre, music concerts, dance performances, and workshops from local to international artists. Hosts annual festivals like Fleadh Nua.
River Fergus Walk & Clare Abbey
A 5km riverside loop walk ending at the 12th-century Clare Abbey, a medieval ruin surrounded by tranquil waters. Ideal for cyclists and history enthusiasts.
John O'Sullivan Park
54-hectare park with woodlands, lakes (Ballyalla Water Sports), a skatepark, and the Active Trail outdoor fitness course. Offers picnicking areas and playgrounds.
Ennis Walking Tours
Guided medieval tours explore narrow 'bow way' lanes, historic sites like the Courthouse, and storytelling about local legends. Options include Ollies Tours' interactive workshops.
Daniel O'Connell Monument
Central statue honoring the Irish political leader stands at Ennis Square. Part of the town's heritage walk linking historic sites like the 18th-century courthouse.
Traditional Music Sessions & Fleadh Nua
Catch lively Irish music at venues like Cois na hAbhna or the Star Lounge nightly. Annual Fleadh Nua festival in May celebrates traditional arts with workshops and performances.
Ennis Sculpture Trail
Public art installations along the River Fergus and town center, including works by local artists. Free to explore on a self-guided walk or bike route.
Getting There
Air
- Shannon Airport (SNN) is approximately 15-30 minutes' drive from Ennis
Rail
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Ennis Railway Station is served by Irish Rail trains from Dublin, Limerick, and other destinations
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Daily services from Dublin, Cork, Galway, and Limerick
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Visit www.irishrail.ie for schedules and bookings
Bus
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Bus Éireann operates regular bus services from Ennis to nearby towns and cities, including Limerick, Galway, and Dublin
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Daily services from major cities in Ireland
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Visit www.buseireann.ie or www.dublincoach.ie for schedules and bookings
Car
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Ennis is accessible by car via the M18 motorway from Dublin or the N18 road from Limerick or Galway
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Approximately 3 hours from Dublin, 1 hour from Galway, 30-40 minutes from Limerick City, and 2 hours from Cork
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Car rental companies have desks at Shannon Airport, including Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty
Ferry
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Tarbert to Killimer Car Ferry operates several daily crossings year-round (except Christmas Day)
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The ferry crosses the Shannon Estuary between Tarbert in Co. Kerry and Killimer in Co Clare
Events & Festivals 2025
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History
Ennis, situated on the River Fergus, has its roots in ancient times, with evidence of prehistoric settlement dating back to the Neolithic Period and Bronze Age. The town's name originates from the Irish word "Inis," meaning island, which refers to an island formed between two streams of the River Fergus. This island was the site of a Franciscan Abbey, founded in 1242 by King Donnchadh O'Brien, who entrusted it to the followers of St. Francis.
As the abbey grew, so did the surrounding town, becoming a centre for theological studies and attracting students from all over. By 1375, the friary had expanded to accommodate 600 students and 350 friars. Despite its official closure in 1540, the friary continued to operate until 1690, playing a significant role in the town's development.
The O'Brien dynasty, descendants of Brian Boru, held considerable influence over Ennis, with their royal residence at Clonroad. In the 16th century, Ennis became the administrative centre of County Clare under the rule of Elizabeth I. The town received a grant to hold fairs and markets in 1610 and later a charter for a corporation.
The 19th century saw significant developments in Ennis, with the construction of Bindon Street, characterized by Georgian-style houses built between 1823 and 1836. The street's development was driven by local figures such as William Greene and Charles Harvey Bagot, who erected houses that still stand today. The arrival of the Provincial Bank in 1864 and the construction of St Columba's Church between 1869 and 1871 further transformed the town.
Ennis has strong associations with notable historical figures, including Daniel O'Connell, who won the Clare election in 1828, leading to Catholic emancipation in Ireland. The town is also linked to Éamon de Valera, who began his long association with Ennis in 1917 and later became Ireland's Taoiseach.
The town's history has been marked by periods of hardship, including the famine of 1845 and its aftermath, which had a devastating impact on the population. However, Ennis continued to grow, developing as a market town and manufacturing centre, with local industries such as textile production, milling, brewing, and distillation.