The Home of The Knights of Glin
Welcome to Glin, a heritage town situated in West Limerick on the banks of the Shannon Estuary. Rich in heritage, culture and folklore it offers a wide variety of amenities and activities all year round. Glin is a prosperous and industrious town boasting a wide range of services for the local community and tourists. Glin is 32 miles from Limerick City and 8 miles from Foynes on the N69. Tarbert Car Ferry is 4 miles from Glin. The ferry service takes you to Killimer, Kiladysert and on to the greater Clare area.
The History of Glin
From the 13th century our castles and historical buildings bear witness to the influence of the FitzGerald family on our town throughout the ages. Our rich and varied past remind us of the Castle Sieges of the 1600s, the Workhouses of Famine Times, the Salmon Fishing Industry of the 1800s and the Trade and Tragedies of life along the estuary. The addition of a Visitor Centre showcasing the history of the Knights of Glin and the seven centuries of change will be opened in July 2022 at the site of Glin Library.
Margaret Moloney (Harbour Master)
In the heart of Glin, a sculpture by local artist Pat O’Loughlin celebrates the life of Margaret Moloney (1868-1952), who was the world’s only known female harbour master. She died in 1952 just under the age 84, making her also the world’s oldest harbour master. Maggie Moloney took over the position of harbour master in Glin from her brother in 1919. She was known as the ‘First Lady of the Estuary’ and when she died, the position of harbour master discontinued and in turn Glin ceased to function as a commercial port.
Places to Explore
Glin Pier and Picnic Area
Glin pier and picnic area is located on the N69 as you arrive to Glin from the Limerick direction. It is possible to swim here and it is very popular in the summer time. As the Shannon estuary is tidal, swim times are dictated by tidal times. As the swimming at Glin pier Is open water and tidal, be mindful of your own safety at all times. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months. Flags are visible when lifeguards are on duty. As no bins are sited at this area, we ask that you take any litter home with you.
GLIN HERITAGE TRAILS
Why not take in our beautiful scenic walks in Glin?. The walks are in perfect condition and include the Knights Walk, Knockaranna and the coastal ‘path’. The Knights Walk is spectacular. You can enter from St. Paul’s Heritage Centre opposite Glin church and follow the trail south through The Race Field where many important race meetings were held in the last century. Then on to Rook Hall Wood, through to Furry Hill Wood, Beech Walk and on to Tullyglass Hill where you will find the Viewing Platform. From here use the binoculars provided to take in the wonderful vista. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding counties of Kerry, Clare, Galway and Tipperary. To the west you can see Cnoc an Oir in Ballybunion, to the North West Scattery Island, Loop Head, Slievecallan and a magnificent sweeping view of the Shannon Estuary. It’s a fabulous walk and you will observe a variety of native woodland flora and fauna and take in the majestic species of beech, oak, ash and holly trees. The wild garlic is in full bloom and the Foxgloves are getting ready to don their wonderful pink gloves! It is a distance of 4KM and is rated of ‘moderate’ difficulty. Good walking shoes are essential and don’t forget to bring mobile phone, a drink and a snack. Knockaranna and The Path are rated ‘easy’ and would suit casual walkers and are also beautiful scenic routes. Brochures outlining the routes are available from local shops in Glin. Plan ahead, Prepare and ‘Leave no Trace’.
Glin Town Park and Playground
Glin playground is situated in an amazing scenic location. Set beside the River Shannon, the playground is surrounded by a small maintained park with seating and picnic tables. There is seating and ample car parking available. This area is a perfect location for a picnic, overlooking the Shannon with views to County Clare and beyond.
Glin Tennis Court
Glin tennis court is located by the Glin Town Park looking out on the majestic Shannon Estuary. It is a well-maintained court, finished to a high standard. Contact details are printed by the entrance gate if you wish to book a game.
Glin Castle
Glin Castle, home for 800 years of the FitzGerald family, hereditary Knights of Glin, stands proudly in the middle of its 400 acre wooded demesne on the banks of the Shannon. The toy-fortress like quality is echoed by three sets of battlemented Gothic folly lodges. The castle in not open to the public at present, but can be viewed from the N69 on the west side of Glin on road to Tarbert on the Wild Atlantic Way.
