Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Bunratty

Beautiful castle which not only shows us the reign of Irish monarchy but also the way of life during the olden days. The castle has a great feel to it as it takes us through the life style of Earl,King, Queen etc showing us their food style, rooms, Chapel to name a few. The top most floor has a beautiful view of the surrounding areas with animals grazing around and the nearby river. We can also walk through the life of farmers, fishermen etc. We can walk through crofters cottage, school for boys and girls, doctors office, post office etc. There is also a small fairy garden and big play ground for kids. The gift shop is fabulous. A wonderful way to spend your day exploring the heritage of Ireland.

We went up and down this castle like no tomorrow. It was so incredible to stand at the top of the castle and look over the land. We got to explore the place, albeit areas were locked behind gates to preserve the rooms... But it was still a great experience. There were little books and crannies and we were able to see where placement of the rooms for different people were, there was a small doorway that allowed someone to look into the dining area without ever going down there. I imagine it was a way to see guests without going down to the hall or the dining areas... Just all around a great experience. I would have liked to go when no one else was there or when fewer people were around. Cramped stairs when several people are trying to go and down at the same time.

The castle is easy to access from the motorway and there is plenty of parking. The gift shop is half-way down the block and by far the best stocked gift shop I have been to in all of Ireland! The selection is vast and there are quite a few items that I only found at this location. There is also a cafe located inside for convenience. I would recommend a visit to any traveler to Ireland. You will not regret it!

We didn't get to go to the theme park. The castle was really fun! The people were very nice and talented musicians as well. They put on a nice show and really made the evening fun. The good was pretty good, not great. The meal felt rushed, which is why it's 4 stars and not five. I think I'd go back for the park for sure. I'm not positive how excited I'd be to do the dinner again.

The Bunratty Castle was a great Castle and park to visit, like most the parks I found I spent way more than the listed time they say most people spend visiting. As I like to go look at everything. This was no exception I took a good portion of the day just taking in all the history there. They have a small town setting set up in the park that even had a man dressed as the old policemen, I enjoyed visiting the old doctor's office as it has a very friendly and knowledgeable elderly man in there who was just fantastic really great with people and kids. Needless to say there is plenty to see if you like history or even if you just like checking out old castles with dungeons and narrow winding stairs. This place is definitely worth the visit, they even sell there own Mead. It's one of the places I would revisit if I ever return to Ireland again, cool place to see!