Ennis: Essential History Walking Tour with Dr Jane O'Brien｜Ireland

The medieval market town Ennis, county Clare is a fascinating and ancient network of cobbled lanes, winding streets and unique ‘bow-ways.’ And connecting it all is a rich history that goes back 800 years. The Ennis Essential History Tour – our definitive and most popular private walking tour - is your opportunity to immerse yourself in the story and spirit of old Ennis. At a time that suits you, you and your chosen group of friends or family will be led through the town by Ennis local Guide Dr Jane O’Brien. One of Ireland’s most knowledgeable Guides with over 20 years’ experience, Jane blends expert research with captivating story telling as she introduces you to the town’s wealth of historical highlights.

You’ll discover ancient abbeys, grand monuments and medieval buildings. You’ll hear tales of kings, friars, rebels and revolutionaries, hear about the town’s hardship and resilience, and stand where Catholic Emancipation was won. You’ll get an insider’s view on our charming town and connect with its history, culture, colourful characters and hidden gems.

What you will do on this tour:

Begin your tour in the charming courtyard of the Clare Museum/Temple Gate Hotel, stepping back in time to the Ennis of the 13th century.

Stand at the point where Ireland won its hard-fought battle for Catholic Emancipation at the O’Connell Monument.

Wander through atmospheric laneways and arched bow-ways that once connected the main streets to the town’s poorest tenement areas.

Explore the role of the Franciscan Friars in shaping Ennis, with stunning views of the 13th century Abbey ruins.

Walk in the footsteps of kings along Ennis’s oldest street, leading to the palace of the O’Brien rulers and the town’s stunning 19th-century Friary.

Uncover captivating stories from the past at the former convent and town's orphanage.

Visit Ireland’s only surviving timber-framed house (circa 1620) on Parnell Street with original half-door and shopfront.

Step into the shadow of history and famine at a former 1700's penal-era church.

Discover the vibrant (and sometimes violent) history of Ennis’s famous markets, where deals were made and rivalries often turned into brawls.

At the old Gallows Green hear the shocking laws of old Ennis, where justice was swift and brutal.

Your tour closes at the grand 19th-century Cathedral and former 16th-century tower house and old gaol.