Goggin Cottage is a thatched cottage offering a glimpse into Ireland’s rural past, lovingly restored by Irish Landmark Trust. Nestled in the picturesque Limerick countryside, this is a hidden gem and the perfect escape for those looking to unwind and reconnect with nature. With the modern comforts you expect (except for TV or Wifi, as it’s a proper digital detox), there is so much to see and do in the surrounding area, with the cosy cottage waiting for you after each day of adventure.
What to know about Goggin Cottage
Goggin Cottage was built around the early 19th century in the traditional vernacular thatched style, using local materials and simple construction techniques. The cottage features a cosy living room with a large fireplace, an original crane for cooking pots, and a wood-burning stove for comfort and atmosphere.
The kitchen is fully equipped and features a dining table perfect for meals. The main bedroom has a comfortable double bed, and upstairs is the loft bedroom with two small single beds designed for children only – and they delight in having their own secret hideaway. Outside, a wildflower meadow garden and patio area provide the perfect space for enjoying a morning coffee or admiring the night sky. Goggin Cottage is also dog-friendly, accepting up to two of your furry friends, making it an ideal getaway for pet owners.
Read more about Goggin Cottage’s rich history.
7 Night Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Settling In
You’ll arrive in the late afternoon and be met by your local House Manager. After checking in and getting comfortable, take some time to explore the cottage and the lovely surroundings.
You can take a walk through the countryside and then settle down by the fire with a book or board game from the cottage’s collection.
Day 2: Curraghchase Forest Park and Stonehall Visitor Farm
Goggin Cottage is surrounded by nature; only a 6-minute drive away, you will find it in abundance at Curraghchase Forest Park. This park is a haven for nature lovers; you can spend the day wandering the 740 acres, checking out the woodland trails and lakes, and birdwatching. Why not bring a picnic and enjoy one of the several idyllic picnic spots. Those with children can make great use of the two playgrounds, and all can enjoy the orienteering courses. There really is something for everyone.
Stonehall Visitor Farm is also nearby, so take the kids to see the animals! The farm has recently reopened for weekends and “allows the visitors to experience firsthand the enjoyment & fun of a wide variety of animals in a secure and pleasant setting.”
In the evening, if you fancy dining locally you can get some great pub grub in Quinns De Bucket.
Day 3: Explore Adare
Adare is a 15-minute drive from Goggin Cottage and is often called Ireland’s prettiest village. This is a must-visit and will be a perfect way to spend one of your days away.
As a heritage town, Adare couldn’t be more suited to an Irish Landmark holiday. You will love strolling past the thatched cottages and historical ivy-covered buildings. It has plenty of boutiques and craft shops to pop in and out of. Art lovers can check out Draoícht Gallery.
The village park right in the town is beautifully maintained with a delightful water feature running through and is a favourite with the pooches!
Golfers can enjoy a round at Adare Manor Golf Club (fun fact: this is where the 2027 Ryder Cup will be held).
In the evening, enjoy a meal at one of their award-winning restaurants such as 1826 Adare.
Day 4: Scenic Drive Along the Shannon Estuary
Goggin Cottage sits almost in the middle of the majestic Shannon Estuary Way, so there are a number of lovely drives, both long and short, that you can take on a day of exploration.
This estuary is where the Shannon – the longest river in Ireland – flows into the sea. It is just off the Wild Atlantic Way and takes you past some beautifully unspoiled nature, gorgeous vistas, and heritage sites and towns, connecting this historic river to the surrounding areas.
One option along your way is the village of Foynes. Visit the Flying Boat Museum, where you can learn about the very first flights to Ireland, which landed here at the start of the age of aviation. This operation then moved over the estuary to the modern-day Shannon Airport, with the old building operating as a fascinating museum dedicated to aviation and maritime history.
It’s not just ships and planes at the museum, though. Did you know the Irish Coffee was invented in Foynes? The on-site chef, Joe Sheridan, came up with this warming treat for guests when a flight to New York was brought back due to bad weather. You can learn about all this and more at your visit to the Flying Boat Museum.
Before heading home, check out the Foynes Inn. There are so many options along the Shannon Estuary Way, and Goggin Cottage is perfectly situated to explore them. Start planning your own journey.
Day 5: Cycle the Greenway
The Limerick Greenway is a fantastic resource for those looking to explore the area on foot or wheel. It follows the old Limerick to Kerry railway line and is situated ideally for some of the most beautiful spots of Ireland’s southwest.
There are many options for bike hire to make the most out of the trail.
The most fitting and nearest to Goggin Cottage is Adare Bike Hire. They run summer specials for just €10 a day, so be sure to check their website for the most up-to-date rates and availability.
There are also retro motorbike rentals and tours from Retroventures Ireland for those willing and able!
Crash back at the cottage after your busy day of adventure and recharge the batteries.
Day 6: Limerick City
Known as the Treaty City, Limerick is a hugely important and historic place and the centre point of the Shannon Estuary Way. It is perfectly located for a visit from Goggin Cottage.
Limerick city centre is compact and best explored on foot once you make the 20-minute drive from the cottage. You could also get the local bus from Kildimo – find up-to-date timetables here.
A lively city, Limerick offers several must-see places and must-try restaurants. Here’s what we recommend for making the most of your visit:
First, pick up a sightseeing day pass from Discover Limerick and let all those attractions shape your trip while saving on entry fees.
A must-see in Limerick is King John’s Castle – get up close and personal in this medieval landmark in the heart of the city. Learn about 800 years of history through interactive educational exhibitions, tours and more.
The Milk Market is one of the sites established by the Market Trustees in 1852 and the only one still operating as a market: a vibrant, bustling spot well worth a visit. From food stalls, to crafts, to local produce, they’ve got everything. Find operating times and lists of vendors.
St Mary’s Cathedral is another spot to learn about the city’s history. Book a tour and see features such as the Monk’s Walk – an original feature and very rare for a building of this time to still have intact. See and learn about the Leper’s Squint—a small opening through which medieval lepers could hear Mass and receive communion.
Why not book a walking tour and learn all about Limerick’s historic past from an expert such as the Limerick Civic Trust. :
You could also deep dive into Limerick’s art, or specifically its Medieval sites – there is a wealth of options to choose from.
As a bustling city, Limerick is a hotspot for theatre, comedy, music and sport. Dolans is famous for its gigs, and you will find live music pouring out of the many pubs if you fancy a session. Why not look up the events while you’re there and make a day or night of it?
You can see Limerick the way the Vikings did when you kayak the renowned River Shannon and experience a whole new view of Limerick from the water.
There are a wealth of places to eat in Limerick, but for a gourmet experience in a beautiful setting, try East Room over by the University of Limerick:
Freddy’s also comes highly recommended for an elevated evening meal.
Or for an authentic Irish chipper experience, why not visit the award-winning (really!) Donkey Fords?
Day 7: Explore the Local Area
After a busy week of adventures, spend your final day unwinding at Goggin Cottage and enjoying the local area. There are so many things to do without going too far from your front door.
Head to the North side of the river and check out Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Sitting on 26 acres of perfect countryside, the Folk Park features a ton of authentic Irish homes and buildings from history – not to mention a magical fairy village and viking playground for the kids. The castle itself hosts a nightly Medieval Banquet – complete with expertly prepared local food and Bunratty honey mead. The dinner show isn’t suitable for kids under four, but older children and adults alike will enjoy this energetic royal feast.
Those interested in history can spot the ruins of Cullum Castle and Ballyculhane Castle, along with the imposing Gothic revivalist Dromore Castle. Although it was abandoned during WW1 and is not open to the public, Dromore Castle is part of the scenery and has even been the backdrop for Hollywood films – High Spirits (1988) by Neil Jordan and most recently the Pope’s Exorcist (2023) starring Russell Crowe.
You can also visit Celtic Park and Gardens, a 10-minute drive from the cottage and offering tours and a chance to connect with the past:
If you are into fishing, Bleach Loch in between Kildimo and Pallaskenry has beautiful scenery and day angling permits are available.
Speaking of history, less than a 15-minute drive from Goggin Cottage is one of Ireland’s oldest towns, Askeaton. Here you will find the Franciscan Friary, Desmond Castle, and their Hell Fire Club. You can learn all about it by booking a free walking tour, where a donation to the town’s civic trust is all that is asked:
You can see contemporary art dotted about the town, enhancing the culture. Learn more about their programmes.
Check in with the Askeaton tourist information office for more:
Back at the cottage, take a leisurely stroll through the countryside, enjoy the wildflower meadow, or simply relax with a meal by the fire. If you don’t feel like cooking, why not call into the local takeaway and have a pizza night?
Dining
As mentioned throughout this guide, there are several incredible dining spots throughout the area.
Local area:
- Quinn’s De Bucket for pub grub (6-min drive)
- Mars Pizza (2-min drive)
- Ruby Chinese Takeaway, Pallaskenry (10-min drive)
Adare (15/20-min drive)
Mungret (20-min drive)
And a wealth of options in Limerick City and the wider area
House Manager Recommends – Glin
A quaint village near Limerick on the banks of the Shannon, Glin provides a picturesque atmosphere for those looking for a country escape. If you have the time, the House Manager recommends checking out this unique heritage town.
Anne’s Vintage Shop – Antiques in Glin
Final Thoughts on Goggin Cottage
Whether you’re looking for historic adventures, scenic walks, or simply a quiet retreat, Goggin Cottage offers an unforgettable escape into Ireland’s rural charm. This itinerary is designed purely as a guide to inspire you, and all details are correct at the time of writing (Spring 2025). Be sure to check relevant websites for updated information and opening hours. In the case of restaurants, it is worth calling ahead.
As with all Irish Landmark Trust breaks, the longer you stay, the lower your nightly rate is. All the more reason to book an extra few days away! Reserve your stay at Goggin Cottage today and experience the magic of this hidden gem for yourself. Or, email our Bookings Office bookings@irishlandmark.com for more details.