Lough Gur
Loch Goir
One of Ireland's most important prehistoric sites, with Neolithic dwellings around the lake and the largest stone circle in the country.
Lough Gur is a small horseshoe-shaped lake. The surrounding area holds continuous traces of human activity spanning about 5,000 years, from the Neolithic to the medieval period. These include Neolithic house sites, wedge tombs, a crannog (an artificial island in the lake) and the ruins of a medieval castle. About 1 km west of the lake, the Grange Stone Circle is made up of 113 standing stones. It is the largest stone circle in Ireland and is free to visit. A heritage centre by the lake offers exhibitions and guided tours, and the lakeside walk takes about 1 to 2 hours through peaceful scenery. Lough Gur is about 20 km from Limerick. There is no convenient public transport, so you'll need to drive or hire a car.
Opening hours
Lake and stone circle open all day; heritage centre approx. 10:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- University of Limerick & Living Bridge
- St John's Cathedral
- People's Park & Limerick City Gallery of Art
- The Milk Market
- Frank McCourt Museum
- The Hunt Museum
- St Mary's Cathedral
- King John's Castle