• 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 is just off the main O’Connell Square in the town center, 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. It is a beautifully preserved medieval church with a rich history. The New Friary in Ennis was established on Francis Street in 1856, and the present church was completed and opened for worship in June 1892.

• Ennis Friary - 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. The guide will explain how the old town of Ennis developed around the old Abbey in the 17th century.

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

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

• Ennis Courthouse - This ‘new’ Courthouse, dating from 1850, was constructed on the Lifford Road, replacing the old Courthouse at O’Connell Square, which was demolished in 1852. A monument to former Irish President, Eamon De Valera, stands in front of the building.

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

• 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 historically used to access tenement houses at the back. The guide will explain the history of these old laneways.

• Clare Museum - Approaching the side of the Clare Museum, a visit is suggested to see the restored black State car owned by Eamon De Valera, who won the 1917 East Clare by-election.

• Sisters Of Mercy - The Convent of the Sisters of Mercy was founded in 1850. The side gable features a marble sculpture dedicated to them. An orphanage existed here in the past, but Industrial Schools were established 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 once stood here before being demolished in 1852. A great statue of Daniel O’Connell now stands in the square, honoring ‘the Liberator’. 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 - Walking halfway down O’Connell Street, the tour reaches Brogan’s public house and Maurer’s Jewellery shop, originally one building. The building features a Jacobean chimney stack on the Cooke’s Lane side and 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 had 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 progresses down Parnell Street to view the landmark McParland Building, a notable structure with architectural and historical significance in the Jacobean style.

• Chapel Lane - The tour turns into the curved Chapel Lane, arriving at an old Catholic Church built in 1735. Many locals 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 in the past and see the Market Sculpture, part of the Ennis sculpture trail.

• Barrack Street - Previously known as Gallows Green or Hanging Street, this area in the 17th century saw punishments for women in the form of ‘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.

• 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 share some history of this iconic Cathedral. At this point, the tour recaps the highlights of the Ennis tour and answers any group questions. Depending on time constraints, the tour may conclude here.

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

• The Ennis Bookshop - The guide will recommend visiting the Ennis Bookshop after the tour. It is one of the town’s finest bookshops, offering many Clare-related publications.

• 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!

Embark on a journey into the past and experience 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 each turn reveals a story. Admire 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 that have shaped the town’s history. Walk through the lively Market Square, where local life is on full display.

This is more than just a tour — it’s an opportunity to connect with the heart of Ennis! With ample time for photos and conversation, 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 poor weather conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund

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