General Admission
During this self-guided tour, explore Limerick’s oldest building, the majestic 12th-century Saint Mary’s Cathedral. This a compelling and must-see attraction in Limerick City, providing insights into a 900-year-old history. During an extensive history, the Cathedral has witnessed invasions, sieges, battles, wars, famine, unrest & times of great peace.
Highlights include:
- An opportunity to attend a daily service (refer to the Cathedral home page for daily service times);
- Marvel at the extraordinary Cathedral building including the engineering and architectural feats to care for this space through the ages;
- Take time to reflect and absorb the magnificent atmosphere. Our visitors comment that the peace they feel while in the Cathedral is a central part of their experience.
- Learn about the people of Limerick who are integral to the history of this Cathedral;
- Find out about the 15th Century Misericords (the only Pre-Elizabethan carvings in existence);
- See the glorious pre-reformation altar;
- Bath in the splendor of exquisite stained-glass windows;
- Walk through the six inner cathedral chapels;
- Wonder at the great Romanesque West Door.
When you book a self-guided tour you are helping to support the continuous care of Saint Mary's Cathedral, including conservation work and daily care for this historic building.
Enjoy Saint Mary's Cathedral at your own pace on a self-guided tour.
Saint Mary's Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in Limerick and stands in the heart of the medieval city, looking over the majestic River Shannon. Originally the Royal Palace for the Kings of Thomond it was gifted to the church in 1168. It is a living church where worship is offered daily, as it has been for the last 850 years. Please come and visit us at Saint Mary's Cathedral. You will be most welcome!
Hear what some of our visitors had to say:
"An absolute must-visit, whether staying in Limerick or just passing through. This place has an exceptional existent history".
"I generally feel that if you've seen one cathedral, you've seen them all. Saint Mary's was a pleasant exception. The displays were well done and there were many interesting memorials on the wall. Well worth the time and small price".
Summary itinerary:
- When you enter the front door of Saint Mary's Cathedral, you will be greeted by one of our volunteers;
- Please show confirmation of booking on your phone. There is no need to print your ticket;
- You will receive an information leaflet should you need one;
- Guides will offer a brief overview before you start your self-guided tour;
- There is most often no restriction on the duration of your visit, a visit can take 15 minutes or one hour;
- Visit times can be restricted subject to service and event times. The guide will advise you on arrival if a service or event is due to start;
- Please check the website and our social media pages for updates before your visit.