Getting around: local transport, taxis, buses and driving tips
The Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Limerick sits on the Ennis Road in Cratloe with free on-site parking and easy car or taxi access to Shannon Airport, Limerick city and nearby attractions. Public buses stop within a few minutes' walk on the N18, but many visitors find taxis or driving the most convenient way to reach sites like Bunratty Castle or Thomond Park.
In this guide
Getting to and from Shannon Airport
Shannon Airport (SNN) is the nearest airport. Driving or taking a taxi is the straightforward option — published estimates put the journey at roughly a 19–20 minute drive.
The hotel does not offer a complimentary airport shuttle in its public listings, so plan for a taxi or pre-booked transfer if you need door-to-door service.
- Taxi: commonly used; industry listings estimate a Shannon–hotel taxi fare at around €24 (confirm with driver).
- Driving: simple route via the N18 depending on traffic.
- Train: there is no direct train link from Shannon to the hotel; Limerick (Colbert) Station is a drive away.
| From | Typical travel time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shannon Airport (SNN) | ≈ 19–20 minutes by car | No hotel shuttle listed; taxi or private transfer recommended |
| Limerick (Colbert) Station | ≈ 17 minutes by car | Station-to-hotel travel usually by taxi or bus |
| Bunratty Castle & Folk Park | ≈ 10–20 minutes by car | Reachable by car; some public buses serve Bunratty from Limerick |
Public buses and local bus stop
There is a local bus stop on the N18 within a short walk of the hotel, so public buses can connect you to Limerick city and regional services. Exact routes and schedules vary by day and operator.
Public transport can be economical for traveling into Limerick city centre, but services to coastal or rural attractions may require transfers and longer journey times.
- Walk to the N18 bus stop (a few minutes) to catch local bus services toward Limerick or Ennis.
- For the Cliffs of Moher and some Clare destinations you may need to change buses; public travel times may exceed driving times significantly.
- Check operator timetables on the day of travel — frequency and routes change seasonally.
| Route idea | Use for |
|---|---|
| Hotel → Limerick city (local bus) | Short trips into the city centre |
| Limerick → Ennis / onward | Connections to west Clare destinations (may require transfer) |
| Limerick → Bunratty | Some regional services or shuttle options; confirm timetable |
Taxis and private transfers
Taxis are the most flexible option for door-to-door travel, airport transfers, and trips to attractions like Thomond Park or Bunratty Castle. Book a taxi from the hotel reception if you prefer the staff to arrange one.
If you need a guaranteed price or are traveling with a group, consider pre-booking a private transfer; otherwise, local taxi fares are variable and typically metered or quoted by drivers.
- Ask hotel reception to call a taxi or to advise reputable local companies.
- Taxis are useful for early/late flights when bus service is limited.
- Confirm an estimated fare with the driver before starting a longer journey (airport or inter-town trips).
| Trip | Typical transport choice |
|---|---|
| Hotel → Shannon Airport | Taxi or pre-booked transfer |
| Hotel → Limerick city centre | Taxi, local bus or rideshare |
| Hotel → Bunratty / County Clare sites | Taxi or rental car for best flexibility |
Driving, parking and car tips
Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Limerick offers free self-parking for guests and coach parking for larger groups, making it convenient if you plan to explore County Clare by car.
Roads around Limerick and into west Clare can be busy at peak times; allow extra time for travel to popular sites and for connections to the N18.
- Free on-site parking is available; confirm specifics at check-in if you need an electric charging point or reserved space.
- If using a debit card, some booking channels report the full stay amount may be charged on arrival — check your booking terms.
- Wash and weather: County Clare weather can change quickly — carry waterproofs and allow for slower driving in wet conditions.
| Nearby destination | Approx. drive time from hotel |
|---|---|
| Thomond Park | ≈ 7 minutes |
| King John's Castle / Limerick city centre | ≈ 9–10 minutes |
| Cliffs of Moher (via N18/N85/R478) | ≈ 1 hour 5 minutes from Limerick city (longer from hotel) |
Walking around the hotel and short local trips
The hotel sits on 20 acres of landscaped parkland; paths and gardens make short walks around the grounds easy. The Brasserie Restaurant offers outdoor seating if you want to dine near the lawns.
For attractions in central Limerick or longer countryside walks, use a car or taxi unless you are prepared for longer public-transport journeys; some nearby sites like Cratloe Woods are a short drive away.
- On-site walking: manicured lawns, a terrace and a Japanese garden are available for short strolls.
- If you want to explore Cratloe Woods or local walking trails, ask reception for directions and safety advice.
- On-site facilities include The Brasserie Restaurant, Quench Bar and 5 Mile Coffee Bar if you prefer not to travel far.
| On-site facility | Useful for |
|---|---|
| The Brasserie Restaurant | Breakfast, lunch, dinner and outdoor seating |
| Quench Bar | Casual drinks and evening sports |
| Gardens / terrace | Short walks and pre- or post-event photos |
Renting a car or longer day trips
Renting a car is recommended if you want to visit the Cliffs of Moher, the Burren, Lahinch or Kilkee on a single day; public transport options to those places require transfers and take much longer.
Allow extra time for journeys along the Wild Atlantic Way and coastal routes; weather conditions can affect travel times and road conditions.
- Car hire desks are available at Shannon Airport; plan pickup or drop-off there if flying in.
- For day trips to the Burren or Cliffs of Moher, check opening times and local visitor information before you go.
- If you prefer not to drive, ask the hotel about guided tours or day-trip arrangements.
| Day-trip | Why hire a car |
|---|---|
| Cliffs of Moher | Direct driving saves 1–2 hours vs public transport |
| Burren / Lahinch | Flexible stops and coastal viewpoints |
| Dromoland / Bunratty area | Short drives, easy parking at sites |
