Askeaton: History on the River Deel

Askeaton combines historic buildings on the River Deel with contemporary public art. There is also a public leisure centre and activities ranging from a guided town tour to rowing. The castle, friary and Askeaton Hellfire Club represent different chapters in the town’s history. When planning your trip, it is also important to check the conditions for individual activities: some tours are available on request, and the full walking tour takes about two and a half hours.

History on the River Deel

Askeaton Castle dates from 1199: William de Burgo built the castle on a rock in the River Deel. North of the town, Askeaton Franciscan Friary stands beside the river. Its single-nave church is built of limestone, and the cloister lies to the south. A carved panel on the north side of the cloister depicts St Francis. A mass dial is also carved into the north wall of the cloister walk. The building’s form, materials and these two architectural details give a tangible sense of the complex. Tours of Askeaton Franciscan Friary are available on request.

In the wider destination of Limerick, Askeaton’s Franciscan friary is one of Ireland’s best-preserved complete ruins. The complex dates from 1389. The Askeaton Hellfire Club tells a different story: the building, constructed of red brick and stone, was built by the St Leger family in 1740. Its ruins stand on an island in the River Deel. The club closed before 1800 and lasted for less than sixty years. Together, the recorded histories of these buildings and places span the castle of 1199, the friary of 1389 and the 18th-century Hellfire Club.

Art in the town

Askeaton Contemporary Arts works in public spaces throughout the town. Its annual residency programme, “Welcome to the Neighbourhood”, brings Irish and international artists to Askeaton each summer. The programme is regularly complemented by themed exhibitions, publications and events. The summer programme is an annual residency; the exhibitions, publications and events also form a regular cultural offering. Contemporary art thus stands alongside the historic buildings as another way to experience the town.

Activities and practical planning

Askeaton Pool & Leisure Centre is a public leisure centre in Askeaton 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 fully accessible and offers fitness and swimming classes. Before your trip, check current opening hours, class schedules and the availability of facilities.

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; allow for its approximate duration when planning your day. Tours of Askeaton Franciscan Friary are also available on request.

Askeaton Playground is on the banks of 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 session. Check with the club in advance to see whether a session can be arranged.

Also in the Limerick destination

Within the wider Limerick destination, the Limerick Greenway is a 40-kilometre, traffic-free route for walking and cycling. It connects the landscape of West Limerick with Rathkeale, Ardagh, Newcastle West, Templeglantine and Abbeyfeale. Named structures along the Greenway include the 115-metre-long Barnagh Tunnel and Ferguson’s Viaduct, a cast-iron viaduct. This regional route broadens the view of Askeaton to include other places and railway architecture in Limerick.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Knocklong, Clarina, Bruff, Ballyorgan, Croagh, Caherconlish, Templeglantine, An Ghleann.

For the wider travel overview: Limerick.