Ennis tours

Things to do in Ennis

Welcome to Ennis, a town where every corner seems to hold a story waiting to be told. As you stroll through its winding streets, the colourful shopfronts offer more than just a picturesque view; they are gates to the town’s rich tapestry of history and culture. Discover Ennis with a local guide who can lead you to its hidden gems, like those tucked-away spots where traditional music fills the air, creating an atmosphere that’s both joyful and timeless. Picture yourself on a walking tour, where the centuries-old architecture whispers tales of the past, or indulging in a food and wine tour that introduces you to local artisans through every delectable bite. With your guide, there's no need to jostle with the crowds at popular attractions—you'll be escorted straight to the heart of what makes Ennis truly unique. This town invites you to engage, to listen, and to connect with its vibrant spirit at every turn. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Ennis. Explore Ennis your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Ennis tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Ennis for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Head into the Burren National Park to walk limestone pavements where your guide points out spring gentians and rare orchids, then continue to Aillwee Cave and its Birds of Prey Centre for a flying display. For coastal wildlife, a private tour can run you to the Shannon Estuary near Carrigaholt for dolphin spotting or to Dromore Woods for red squirrel and woodland trails. Layover tours: Flying into Shannon Airport, you can be picked up for a 3–4 hour circuit of Bunratty Castle & Folk Park and Ennis Friary, with a quick bowl of seafood chowder at Brogan’s on O’Connell Street. With 6+ hours, your guide can time a visit to the Cliffs of Moher and a scenic Burren drive before returning you to the terminal. History tours: Explore Ennis Friary’s carved MacMahon tomb, the cloisters of Quin Abbey, and the tower and high crosses on the Dysert O’Dea archaeological trail, all on a private tour paced to you. Add Clare Museum for local artefacts or detour to Craggaunowen to see a crannóg and a replica curragh linked to Tim Severin. Ennis’s compact centre is walkable, and there are buses and trains to nearby hubs, but reaching the Burren, Loop Head, or the Cliffs of Moher is easier with wheels. If you prefer not to drive, ask your local guide about a chauffeured tour or private transportation on your tours. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Ennis inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods A private walking tour of Ennis offers a delightful journey through its vibrant neighborhoods, where a local guide ensures you truly experience the town’s charm. - Town Centre: Known for its traditional Irish music scene, this area is perfect for cultural tourists and those wanting to enjoy lively pubs and historic landmarks. - Abbey Street: Families and history lovers alike will appreciate the Ennis Friary and the bustling market atmosphere, offering an engaging glimpse into the town's past. - Clare Road: A hub for shopping and dining, ideal for multi-generational groups looking to enjoy a leisurely day exploring local boutiques and cafes. - River Fergus Area: Nature enthusiasts can enjoy peaceful walks along the river, providing a scenic escape within the town, perfect for those seeking relaxation and meaningful connections. Day trip ideas from Ennis From Ennis, day trip tours put wild cliffs, limestone hills, and lively streets within easy reach, so you spend more time outside and less time in transit. Cliffs of Moher and the Burren: Walk along towering sea edges, then cross the Burren for lunar-like limestone, rare flowers, and ancient tombs, and your tour can pick viewpoints and short trails that match your pace and the day’s weather. Galway City: Music on the streets, the Spanish Arch by the water, and markets with fresh bread and oysters make a relaxed city day, and you can add small museums or a pub with a trad session if that suits your interests. Loop Head Peninsula: Quiet roads lead to big Atlantic views, the Bridges of Ross, and cliff walks near Kilkee, which suits you if you prefer fewer crowds, easy photo stops, and a picnic by the sea. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park: Step through a furnished medieval stronghold and then into a recreated village street, a simple way to cover centuries in one place, and the short drive means more time to explore. Killaloe and Lough Derg: Twin towns linked by a bridge, a calm lakeshore, and St. Flannan’s Cathedral offer gentle history, boat views, and cafés, a comfortable day trip when you want light walking and local life. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Ennis most travellers miss.