In the Shannon region of western Ireland, the warm and friendly welcome extended to travelers visiting Adare is reminiscent of a simpler, less hectic time. Adare is a place that thrives on the past. You immediately notice the thatched cottages along Adare’s main road. Originally built in the 1830s as servant quarters for the 2nd Earl of Dunraven, today the cottages are private homes and businesses. Thatch that’s used in cottage roofing can range from wheat straw, oak straw and reeds to flax and sturdy grasses. Roofs often have thatch that’s layered seven feet deep.
Adare was founded in the 13th century and developed by The Geraldines of Kildare. Over two dozen historical sites are in the surrounding area. All of them are listed on Adare’s official website.
One of the prettiest spots is Adare Village Park, located in the heart of the village. It’s a beautiful place to wander. You can stroll under a canopy of towering chestnut trees, snap photos of gorgeous seasonal blooms in the garden areas, and rest under a thatched wooden gazebo— a popular venue for weddings and musical performances. There’s also a historical spot known as the Washing Pool. Before the use of detergent and wash tubs, Adare women would do the family laundry in the stream next to the arched bridge. They layed clothes over giant stones and would pound them clean using wooden bats. The Washing Pool is over 200 years old. It was restored in 1975 and designated a historical site.
Photos by: Susan Geiger
Just beyond the arched bridge is Holy Trinity Abbey Church, the first and oldest Trinitarian abbey in Ireland. It was built in 1230 by an order of monks who lived in Adare for three centuries. The monks wore a white habit, so the abbey was commonly known as the White Monastery. The abbey is now a Roman Catholic church located in the center of the village next to another historical site: the Adare Fountain. The fountain was used by villagers and travelers as their main water source. They’d come to fill buckets to take home, and drink from the fountain pool along with their thirsty horses.
As you enter the village, stop by the Adare Heritage Center for a guide map and suggestions for local shopping, restaurants, and pubs. Old world history and charm make for a pleasant stay in Adare.
Adare Video Tour: Press Play
