Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Munster

"Ireland is so full of lakes and every one of them is special in its own way. Amongst the plethora of lakes or loughs, the Lough Gur genuinely has a special spot in my heart. Perfectly set in its very Irish countryside, the lake is also surrounded by an ancient stone circle."

"Kanturk Castle is an amazing historic, ruined mansion that is situated just outside of the scenic market town of Kanturk, in County Cork. The castle is believed to have been built in around 1609, by Dermot MacDonagh MacCarthy though it is believed to have never been completed, and it remained without a roof. There are some stunning architectural features, such as the grand Renaissance-style entrance, and some impressive Gothic-style windows."

"The crumbling remains of Kanturk Castle, a ruined 17th-century mansion, are stunningly atmospheric. Influenced by Tudor and Renaissance styles, with a traditional Irish castellated eastern entrance, Kanturk once provided a defence against English settlers. Now, it stands bleakly empty, surrounded by forest."

"Kanturk Castle Cork Kanturk Castle is rectangular in shape with massive square towers at each corner. The main block has four storeys, the towers have five. There is a fine Renaissance door in the first floor on the north side and a more traditional pointed door on the ground floor on the south side."

"The mythical side of Irish life (which is still fairly widely loved, if perhaps seen locally as a little clichéd) is one of the great Irish experiences for many people. Terra Nova is a magical garden that contains an ancient fairy fort dating back thousands of years, though the addition of modern fairy statues and magical touches will probably entice most visitors. Atmospheric, to say the least."

"Limerick, winner of the Best Garden in Ireland, it is a magical day out for families and gardeners alike and is home to Ireland’s Largest Fairy Gift Shop."

"Ballyhooly Castle is a beautiful 17th-century manor house that is situated in the north of County Cork; one of the main reasons in which the castle is famous is for the ‘Ballyhooly Massacre’, which occurred during the Irish Civil War, even though just one person was killed. Today, the castle grounds are open to the public; many visitors are attracted to the peaceful atmosphere of the village and the beautiful scenery. Where: BallyhoolyWhen: 17th centuryStyle: GothicOpen for visit: Private Residence – can only visit the grounds."

"Lough Gur Stone Circle is one of Ireland’s archaeological and historical gems. The beautiful and enchanted lake lies 21 km south east of Limerick city. From the level surrounding countryside it unfolds in beauty its placid waters and rugged hills – a fairyland of stone circles, ancient habitation sites, megalith tombs, crannogs and castles."

"Stands tall and proud at the end of Mallow, close to the castle. Renovated recently and now home to offices. It is of the same Tudor style as the Hibernian Hotel and has a fully working clock that chimes on the hour."

"The magnificent 400 acre 18th century landscaped demesne with extensive walkways, water features, herds of Deer and protected Kerry cattle, is a haven of tranquillity located close to Mallow in Co Cork. Within the parkland lies Doneraile Court, the stunning centrepiece of one of Ireland’s most beautiful Estates. The house dates from the 1720s when it was built by Arthur St. Leger, the first Viscount Doneraile and father of the renowned Lady Freemason."

"Kanturk Castle is an amazing historic, ruined mansion that is situated just outside of the scenic market town of Kanturk, in County Cork. The castle is believed to have been built in around 1609, by Dermot MacDonagh MacCarthy though it is believed to have never been completed, and it remained without a roof. There are some stunning architectural features, such as the grand Renaissance-style entrance, and some impressive Gothic-style windows."

"The crumbling remains of Kanturk Castle, a ruined 17th-century mansion, are stunningly atmospheric. Influenced by Tudor and Renaissance styles, with a traditional Irish castellated eastern entrance, Kanturk once provided a defence against English settlers. Now, it stands bleakly empty, surrounded by forest."

"Kanturk Castle Cork Kanturk Castle is rectangular in shape with massive square towers at each corner. The main block has four storeys, the towers have five. There is a fine Renaissance door in the first floor on the north side and a more traditional pointed door on the ground floor on the south side."

"Lough Gur Stone Circle is one of Ireland’s archaeological and historical gems. The beautiful and enchanted lake lies 21 km south east of Limerick city. From the level surrounding countryside it unfolds in beauty its placid waters and rugged hills – a fairyland of stone circles, ancient habitation sites, megalith tombs, crannogs and castles."

"We are extremely lucky in Mallow to not have one castle but two, the original was burned in the 1600's and a new more modern was built in the grounds just adjacent. The old castle ruins are still there and are a sight to behold, both castles can be viewed from outside while you amble in the gardens, take your picture with a dragon or frolic in the water font."

"Stands tall and proud at the end of Mallow, close to the castle. Renovated recently and now home to offices. It is of the same Tudor style as the Hibernian Hotel and has a fully working clock that chimes on the hour."