The Thatched Cottages of Main Street
About
The row of thatched cottages on Main Street is the image that put Adare on postcards, and the first thing most people come to see. The cottages were built in the 1820s and 1830s by the Earls of Dunraven as part of a planned estate model village, and several now hold craft shops, cafes and restaurants. Set your expectations before you arrive: the thatched stretch is short and concentrated rather than a whole village of thatch, and Main Street carries heavy through-traffic, so it is prettier in the early morning or evening than in the middle of a busy summer day. Walk it slowly, look at the estate architecture, and treat it as the start of a wander rather than the whole visit.
Photos
Highlights
- ✓A planned estate row of thatched cottages built by the Earls of Dunraven
- ✓Craft shops, cafes and restaurants inside several of the cottages
- ✓Best photographed early morning or evening, away from the traffic
- ✓The start of the medieval ruins and Heritage Centre wander
Tips
- →The thatched stretch is short; walk it slowly rather than expecting a whole thatched village.
- →Main Street is busy with traffic; go early or late for photographs.
- →Combine it with the medieval ruins and the Heritage Centre a short walk away.
Best Season
More Heritage Activities
Desmond Castle Guided Tour
A 13th-century Norman castle by the River Maigue, on a guided tour that runs daily June to end September only, with a shuttle from the Heritage Centre.
Franciscan Friary Ruins
A 1464 Franciscan friary ruin by the Maigue, on the Adare Manor golf grounds. Public access is not guaranteed; check locally before visiting.
Holy Trinity Abbey (Trinitarian)
A c.1226-1240 Trinitarian abbey, now Adare's Catholic parish church on Main Street. Still in use and visitable.