• Ennis Tourist Information Centre - The meeting point is in the Square area, shared by the Ennis Tourist Information Office and the Temple Gate Hotel. This courtyard, located just off the main O’Connell Square in the town center, is conveniently near a large parking area. The tour begins with a brief overview of the schedule, highlighting various Points of Interest and buildings along the route, and a discussion of Ennis’s rich history. Please arrive 10 minutes before the tour starts.

• Francis Street - The Church of the Immaculate Conception on Francis St, Ennis, is a Roman Catholic Church belonging to the Franciscan Friars. This ‘New’ Friary in Ennis, built on Francis Street in 1856, is a beautifully preserved medieval church. The church was completed and opened for worship in June 1892.

• Ennis Friary - A local Abbey guide will provide a brief tour of the Friary complex. Built in the 13th century by King Donnchadh O’Brien for the traveling Franciscan Friars, who established an Abbey here. Abbey Street is named after the ancient Friary/Abbey.

• Abbeyfield Centre - Abbeyfield House was formerly owned by Judge Patterson, who presided in the Dublin Four Courts. It was later used as a Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) barracks.

• River Fergus - After passing the Club Bridge, enjoy a short scenic walk along the edge wall of the River Fergus. A variety of flora, fauna, and wildlife can be observed here. This walk leads to the Courthouse building.

• Ennis Courthouse - This ‘new’ Courthouse, dating from 1850, was erected on the Lifford Road, overlooking the River Fergus. It replaced an older building at the square (demolished in 1852). The building is a gem of Ireland’s built heritage! A monument to former Irish President, Eamon De Valera, is located in front of this building.

• Queens Hotel - Cruce House is the oldest surviving building in Ennis, with large chimney stacks that are relics from the past. Cruce House was owned by 17th-century English settler and businessman, John Cruce. Today, it houses Cruises Bar and Restaurant, which is part of the Queens’ Hotel.

• The Club Bridge - At the Club Bridge, view the Centenary Sphere and other memorials commemorating the 1916 Rising. From this vantage point, the Gentleman’s Club across the River Fergus can be seen. The Gentleman’s Club was used for the benefit of local industrialists and the elite for training and socializing.

• Sisters Of Mercy - The Convent of the Sisters of Mercy was founded in 1850. The side gable features a marble sculpture dedicated to them. The Orphanage existed in previous times, but Industrial Schools were set up here in 1880.

• Daniel O’Connell Monument - This open-space area at the top of O’Connell Street is known as O’Connell Square. The original Ennis Courthouse (demolished in 1852) once stood here. A great statue of Daniel O’Connell now stands at the square, honoring ‘the Liberator’, Daniel O’Connell. The famous Irish political leader, O’Connell, was elected in 1828, advocating for Catholic Emancipation following the repeal of the Penal Laws.

• O’Connell Street - As the tour progresses halfway down O’Connell Street, Brogan’s public house and Maurer’s Jewellery shop are encountered, which were originally one building! The building has a Jacobean chimney stack on the Cooke’s Lane side. There is a late 18th-century archway at Brogan’s. Cooke’s Lane once housed a theatre, a prison, a schoolhouse, and a fever hospital at various times. Jostle stones are located at the O’Connell St. end of Cooke’s Lane.

• Cooks Lane Cafe & Deli - Cooke’s Lane once housed a theatre, a prison, a schoolhouse, and a fever hospital at various times. Jostle stones are located at the O’Connell St. end of Cooke’s Lane.

• Parnell Street - The tour group now progresses down Parnell Street and stops to view the landmark McParland Building – a notable structure with architectural and historical significance in the Jacobean style.

• Abbey Street - Continuing on Abbey Street, the tour turns left at McInerney’s shop and enters a Bow-way. These old laneways are unique to Ennis and were used in olden times to access tenement houses at the back. The guide stops to explain the history of these old laneways.

• Chapel Lane - The tour now turns into the curved Chapel Lane and arrives at an old Catholic Church built in 1735. Many local people sought refuge in the Church during the Irish Famine of 1845-52 due to evictions.

• Ennis Farmers Market - Experience the vibrant heart of Ennis where traders have gathered for centuries. Hear about the wild occurrences during Market days here in the past. See the Market Sculpture (part of the Ennis sculpture trail).

• SS Peter and Paul Cathedral - A stunning neo-Gothic cathedral with a striking presence in the town, built between 1830 and 1870. The guide will explain a little bit of the history of this iconic Cathedral. At this point, the tour recaps on points covered and answers any group questions. Depending on time constraints, the tour may finish here.

• Old Ground Hotel Ennis - If time allows, the tour approaches the Old Ground Hotel, and the guide will explain the long and varied history of this old building.

• The Ennis Bookshop - The guide will advise that, after the town tour, visitors should take the opportunity to visit the Ennis Bookshop. It is one of the area’s finest bookshops, stocking many Clare-related publications.

• Barrack Street - In previous times, this area was called Gallows Green or Hanging Street. In the 17th century, punishments for women included ‘duckings’ for nagging and scolding. See the Sculpture of Weathered Woman. Fairs were held in the Square area of Barrack St up to the 1640s. A previously unknown medieval graveyard was discovered here during excavations in 2015/2016.

• Clare Museum - Towards the end of the tour, the guide will suggest a visit to Clare Museum to see a restored black State-car owned by Ex-President, Eamon De Valera, and many other Clare artifacts of interest.

• Shared Public Tour with other visitors
• Entertaining stories on Ennis’ history
• Professional Irish Tourist guide commentary
• General Admission for Ennis town Walking Tour
• Photo opportunities

• Tea/Coffees Snacks not included but available locally for small fee.
• Alcoholic beverages

Discover the Essence of Ennis: A Unique Walking Tour Experience!

Embark on a journey through time and immerse yourself in the lively essence of Ennis, the largest town in Munster. This public walking tour is not just about history; it’s an exploration of time, culture, and storytelling. Guided by an enthusiastic Irish tourism expert, this small-group tour provides a personal glimpse into one of Ireland’s most delightful towns.

Stroll through the medieval streets, where every turn reveals a story. Be amazed by the magnificent Ennis Cathedral, known for its impressive architecture. Visit the 13th-century Ennis Friary, a testament to Ireland’s monastic heritage. Stand before the historic Courthouse and learn about the dramatic trials of the past, and wander through the lively Market Square.

For the 2025 season, a brief guided visit to the old Ennis Friary is included. This is more than just a tour — it’s an opportunity to connect with the heart of Ennis! With ample time for photographs, you’ll depart with memories as vivid as the tales shared.

• This Walking Tour is on flat surface, where most travelers can participate. It’s also animal-friendly
• Weather in this local region is generally quite mild. In unlikely event of Tour cancellation due to heavy rain or bad weather conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.