Askeaton lies on the River Deel, which flows into the Shannon Estuary here. The river is also part of the town’s history: Askeaton Castle was built in 1199 by William de Burgo on a rock in the River Deel. Together with the Franciscan friary and the town’s art projects, these sites put historic buildings and contemporary culture centre stage.
Castle, friary and River Deel
Askeaton Franciscan Friary lies on the River Deel, on the north side of Askeaton. Its single-nave limestone church has a cloister on the south side. A carved panel on the north side of the cloister depicts St Francis; a mass dial is carved into the north wall of the cloister walk. Tours of the friary are available on request. Check the visiting arrangements in advance.
The ruins of Askeaton Hellfire Club also stand on an island in the River Deel. Built from red brick and stone, the building was constructed by the St Leger family in 1740. The club closed before 1800 and existed for less than 60 years. The castle, friary and Hellfire Club thus offer different points of historical interest, with their building histories spanning more than one era.
Art and activities in town
The annual “Welcome to the Neighbourhood” residency programme brings Irish and international artists to Askeaton every summer. The town also regularly hosts themed exhibitions, publications and events. Askeaton Contemporary Arts artists work in public spaces throughout the town. Alongside its architecture, art practice is therefore part of the local cultural offering.
Askeaton Pool & Leisure Centre is a public leisure centre and is open seven days a week. Facilities include a 25-metre swimming pool, a heated training pool for children, a sauna, a steam room and a whirlpool. The centre is open to everyone, is fully accessible and offers fitness and swimming classes. Check the opening hours and current class programme before your visit.
The full Askeaton Walking Tour takes about two and a half hours and is led by local volunteer historian and tour guide Anthony Sheehy. It can be booked by prior arrangement. The approximate duration can help you plan your time; arrange the tour in advance.
Askeaton Playground is also on the River Deel and is within walking distance of the historic town centre. Desmond Rowing Club introduces people aged eight and over to rowing in small, sturdy boats called “Punts”. The club also invites interested visitors to try a free taster trip on the water; check availability in advance.
Askeaton in the wider Limerick region
The wider Limerick region is home to the Limerick Greenway, a 40-kilometre car-free route for walking and cycling. It connects the West Limerick countryside with Rathkeale, Ardagh, Newcastle West, Templeglantine and Abbeyfeale. An access point is in neighbouring Rathkeale, 10.5 kilometres from Askeaton. The route follows a former railway line, runs from Rathkeale to beyond Abbeyfeale and is free to use. This regional attraction complements the sights and activities in Askeaton.
Discover more destinations: Croom, Templeglantine, Ballyneety, Abbeyfeale, Ardpatrick, An Ghleann, Tuogh, Knocklong.
For the main travel overview: Limerick.
