Limerick Hell-Fire Club

While back home, I was lucky enough to get a trip out to Askeaton Co. Limerick. Work is currently under-way restoring Askeaton Castle, but funding has run out on the 18th Century build beside it, the Limerick Hell-Fire Club. It is such a shame, as the building really needs some serious TLC. Very unusual in design and one of only two buildings in the country associated with the Hell-Fire Clubs, it looks like the heritage board just don't see it as a priority. The town is more famous for its island Castle, initially built in the late 12th century, the majority of the building now dates to the 15th century and was in use until Cromwellian forces dismantled it in the late 17th century.

The Limerick Hell-Fire Club:

Askeaton survey

I spent the day conducting an archaeological survey in Askeaton, Co. Limerick!

The circular enclosure measures 30m in diameter, and contains a walled internal section (pictured, badly!)

All the dry stone walls have collapsed over time. At their highest point the walls reach some 2m.

According to the locals, the walls were once much higher. Some stone has been removed by the locals and cows have flattened sections of the site.

Stones are scattered haphazardly throughout. The level of overgrowth is extensive.

Proper maps and pictures coming soon. If anyone has any idea of what the site is, please let me know - have you seen anything similar?