Driven by Adventure, Inspired by Defender. This time our journey takes us to Limerick – a medieval city brimming with history, culture, culinary skill and a sense of community that gives the streetscape its unique character.
Where to stay
No 1 Pery Square
No 1 Pery Square offers Georgian elegance in the heart of the city. Run by owner Patricia Roberts, this is a little gem. Cosy and intimate, with four period rooms in the main house that are particularly special, a planned renovation and refresh is on the horizon, which will be exciting to see the results. There is plenty of old-world charm, with beautiful views over the park. The staff are a huge part of the appeal here too; a warm team of local young people who bring real personality to the place (a special shoutout to Mackenzie). The Voya spa, cleverly built into the vaulted brick basement, is a must-visit, with exposed stone and candlelight adding atmosphere. Highly recommend a massage with Monique – pure magic. And if you judge a place by breakfast, as many do, the offering here is exceptional.
The Bedford Townhouse
This boutique hotel in the heart of Limerick is the perfect rest stop for a busy city break. This Georgian building has been lovingly restored by Peter and Denise Brazil, creating 12 impeccably decorated bedrooms that highlight its architectural heritage alongside modern amenities. Pop into The Bedford Restaurant for their excellent breakfast and brunch menu or grab a delicious açai bowl to take with you on your wander around the city. Ask the concierge for advice on where to go, or put your feet up for a while in the peaceful surrounds of The Bedford Townhouse’s Parlour Room, where there’s a range of Ponaire speciality coffee, teas and herbal teas available.
The Savoy
Located in Limerick’s buzzing city centre, The Savoy has everything you need for a fun weekend away. With 107 bedrooms, it can comfortably fit the whole family and there’s plenty of food and drink options available too. The New York-style Hamptons Bar & Grill is a buzzing spot just adjacent to the hotel, while The Library offers a quiet reprieve. At the end of a hectic day sightseeing, book in for a massage at the onsite VB spa or sit down with a cocktail on the sumptuously snug pink velvet sofas of the Savoy Bar.
Where to eat
Cornstore
Cornstore is a popular restaurant, with outposts in both Cork and Limerick, and is consistently busy and buzzy. It serves excellent steak, oysters and all the familiar favourites, done well. A go-to for date nights and groups of friends getting together, it delivers on atmosphere without trying too hard. There’s an excellent cocktail list and plenty of cosy corners to linger in late into the night.
House Limerick
Located along Limerick’s scenic riverfront, House Limerick is all relaxed glamour, where burnt orange velvet-clad horseshoe booths meet relaxed dining and a great cocktail menu. You can choose from an array of spaces, including the Wine Room, Amber or the indoor garden, but the heated outdoor terrace is the best spot on a bright spring day. The dinner menu runs the full gamut, from a loaded vegan salad to west Clare fish and chips, plus plenty of classics too such as stuffed pork fillet and chicken supreme.
Canteen
Keeping it cool and casual, Chef Paul Williams’s spot is small in size but its dishes are big on personality. A perfect lunch stop, the menu includes indulgent bites, such as the halloumi and roast veg sourdough toastie with black olive pesto and battered cod fish tacos. Beloved by critics and locals alike, Canteen is regularly included in Ireland’s top 100 restaurants and you can see why: it’s warm and welcoming, with interesting flavour combinations served without pomp and fanfare.
Where to shop
Milk Market
Cork has the English Market and Limerick has the Milk Market and Dublin… still sadly has nothing to compare. Saturday is the day to visit the Milk Market for the fabulous food and farmers’ market. A highlight is Peter Ward’s Country Choice stand, but there are dozens of excellent stalls, including Greenacres coffee and Re:Story for artisan craft pieces. Sundays bring more craft and giftware, with the same family-friendly buzz. Arrive early, wander slowly and leave laden; ideally with a box of SOS Cookies in hand.
Downbeat Records
Located on Wickham Way, Downbeat Records is run by audiophile Frankie O’Mahoney, who is usually on hand to help as you browse through his impressive selection of records. Catering to a wide variety of musical tastes, it’s the perfect spot to while away few hours, just remember it’s only open Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Browsers
For interiors lovers, Browsers on Upper William Street is not to be missed. Stocking brands such as Neptune, Enthicraft and Flamant, there’s plenty to peruse. It’s also just opened Ireland’s first Kave Home shop in store, so you can get a feel for the Spanish design brand before you purchase. Once you’ve picked out some pieces for your home, head to Browsers’s Gusso’s Cafe for coffee and a chance to unwind.
The Defender is the best in class when it comes to road trips. A master of extreme performance and exploration that will take you anywhere (with plenty of storage space), it’s a car that was made for adventure.
Learn more at landrover.ie/defender.
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