Thomond Park is a legendary stadium located in the heart of Limerick, Ireland. It is known as one of the most iconic rugby grounds in the world, with a rich history and a passionate fan base. In this article, Cambridge University Press Football Club fans will take a deep dive into the history of Thomond Park, explore its stadium facilities, and provide you with all the essential information you need to know if you are planning to visit this legendary venue.
History of Thomond Park
Thomond Park’s history is rich and storied. The football stadium, which is located in Limerick, Ireland, was opened in 1934 and has since become one of the most iconic rugby stadiums in the world. It was built to replace the original Thomond Park, which was located just across the road and was deemed too small for the growing number of rugby fans in the region.
Over the years, the stadium has been the site of many memorable rugby matches, both domestic and international. The stadium is most famous for the Munster rugby team’s historic victory over the All Blacks in 1978, which is still regarded as one of the greatest upsets in rugby history. Since then, the stadium has been a fortress for Munster, with many of their biggest victories taking place on its hallowed turf.
In 2008, the stadim underwent a major redevelopment, which saw its capacity increase to 26,500. The redevelopment also included the addition of new facilities, such as a museum dedicated to Munster rugby, as well as improved seating and viewing areas for spectators.
Today, The pitch continues to be one of the most iconic rugby stadiums in the world, and is a must-visit destination for rugby fans from around the globe. Its rich history and passionate fans make it a truly special place to watch a rugby match.
The Stadium Facilities
Thomond Park is a modern, state-of-the-art stadium with excellent facilities for both fans and players. The stadium features a large, covered stand on one side of the pitch and a terraced area on the opposite side. There are also two smaller stands at either end of the ground.
The stadium facilities include multiple bars and restaurants, as well as a fan zone where supporters can enjoy live music and entertainment before and after the match. There are also plenty of toilets and food stalls around the ground, making it easy to grab a bite to eat or use the facilities.
Stadium Address, Phone Number, and Entrance Price
If you are planning to visit Thomond Park, here is all the essential information you need to know:
- Stadium Address: Thomond Park, Cratloe Road, Limerick, Ireland
- Thomond Park capacity: 25,600 (15,100 seated)
- Phone Number: +353 61 421100
- Entrance Price: The price of admission to Thomond Park varies depending on the event. For Munster Rugby matches, prices typically range from €20 to €50 for adults, with discounts available for children, students, and seniors.
Read more: Top 15 biggest stadiums in Ireland by capacity
Getting There
Thomond Park is a world-renowned sports venue located in Limerick, Ireland. Whether you’re visiting for a match or just to explore the area, it’s important to know how to get there. Here’s a guide to the transportation options available for getting to the stadium.
By Car
While there is no parking available at Thomond Park on match days, there are a variety of parking facilities located in the nearby City Centre. Additionally, Park and Ride schemes are available from various locations – be sure to check the club’s website in advance to find out what is happening on your specific match day.
By Train
Limerick’s Colbert Station is just 2.5km from Thomond Park, making it a convenient option for travelers staying in the City Centre. Regular direct services are available to Dublin (2.5 hours) and Galway (2 hours), while connections to other destinations such as Cork and Waterford can be made at Limerick Junction.
By Bus
Ireland’s bus network is extensive and often quicker than rail travel. Bus Eireann is the primary bus operator in the country, offering services from Limerick to major airports (see below) as well as towns and cities including Galway (1.5 hours), Tralee (2 hours), Killarney (2 hours), Cork (2 hours), Sligo (2.5 hours), and Dublin (3.25 hours). The bus and train stations are conveniently located in the City Centre.
By Air
Shannon Airport
The closest airport to Limerick is Shannon Airport, located just 25km to the West of the City. Although not as busy as other Irish airports, major airlines such as Aer Lingus and Ryanair still offer scheduled services to a variety of destinations in the UK and Europe. Bus Eireann provides bus connections from the airport to the City.
Cork Airport
Cork Airport is a bit further away from Limerick, approximately 115km, but is the second busiest airport in the country and offers a wider range of destinations than Shannon. Aer Lingus and Ryanair primarily operate flights from this airport. Buses operated by Citylink provide direct service from the airport to Limerick in around 2 hours.
Dublin Airport
Dublin Airport is also within reach of Limerick, and there are frequent bus links operated by Bus Eireann that connect the two cities. While this airport is a bit further away than the other two options, it’s a good choice if you’re coming from an international destination or other parts of Ireland.
In summary, getting to Thomond Park is easy with a variety of transportation options available. Whether you prefer to drive, take the train or bus, or fly, there are convenient ways to get to Limerick and enjoy all the amenities this vibrant city has to offer.
Where to Stay Near Thomond Park
If you are traveling to Limerick for a match at Thomond Park, there are plenty of accommodation options available. There are several hotels located within walking distance of the stadium, including the Limerick Strand Hotel and the Clayton Hotel Limerick
Best Places to Eat and Drink Near There
Limerick is known for its excellent food and drink scene, and there are plenty of great options to choose from near Thomond Park. Here are some of the best places to eat and drink before or after a match:
- The Locke Bar: Located just a short walk from the stadium, The Locke Bar is a popular spot for pre-match drinks and post-match celebrations. The bar serves up a range of craft beers, cocktails, and traditional Irish food.
- The Curragower Seafood Bar: This cozy pub is located on the banks of the River Shannon, just a short stroll from Thomond Park. The bar is known for its fresh seafood and local craft beers, and it’s a great spot for a post-match pint.
- The Green Yard Cafe: If you’re looking for a healthier option, The Green Yard Cafe is a great choice. The cafe serves up a range of organic and vegetarian dishes, as well as specialty coffee and fresh juices.
- The White House: This historic pub is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The bar has been serving up pints since the 1800s, and it’s a great place to soak up the atmosphere before or after a match.
Parking at the Stadium
If you are planning to drive to Thomond Park, there are several parking options available. The stadium has its own car park, which is located just a short walk from the ground. There are also several other car parks located in the area, including the Limerick Strand Car Park and the Q-Park Harvey’s Quay.
It’s worth noting that parking can get quite busy on match days, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure a spot. Alternatively, you may want to consider using public transport or walking to the stadium.
Things to Do Near Thomond Park
Limerick is a vibrant and historic city with plenty to see and do. If you have some time to spare before or after a match, here are some of the top attractions to check out:
- King John’s Castle: This impressive castle dates back to the 13th century and is located just a short walk from the stadium. Visitors can take a tour of the castle and learn about its fascinating history.
- The Hunt Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts and artwork from around the world, including pieces from the medieval period and the Renaissance.
- The Milk Market: This bustling market is located in the heart of Limerick and is the perfect place to sample some local produce and pick up some souvenirs.
- The Treaty Stone: This historic landmark marks the spot where the Treaty of Limerick was signed in 1691, ending the Williamite War in Ireland.
Matchday Experience at Thomond Park
Attending a match at Thomond Park is a unique and unforgettable experience. The atmosphere is electric, and the passion of the Munster Rugby fans is second to none. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your matchday experience:
- Arrive early: The stadium can get quite busy on match days, so it’s a good idea to arrive early to avoid the crowds and get a good spot.
- Dress warmly: Limerick can be chilly, especially during the winter months, so make sure to dress warmly and bring a jacket or blanket.
- Bring cash: While most of the bars and food stalls at Thomond Park accept card payments, it’s always a good idea to bring some cash just in case.
- Sing along: Munster Rugby fans are known for their passionate singing and chanting, so don’t be afraid to join in and show your support for the team.
Tours
If you want to learn more about the history and heritage of Thomond Park, a stadium tour is a must. During the tour, you’ll get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the stadium, including the dressing rooms, player’s tunnel, and press box.
The tour also includes a visit to the Munster Rugby Museum, which is located inside the stadium. Here, you’ll find a collection of memorabilia and artifacts from Munster’s long and storied history, including jerseys, trophies, and photographs.
Tours are available seven days a week, and they typically last around an hour. Tickets can be purchased online or at the stadium on the day of the tour.
Related:
- Oriel Park: The Heart of Irish Football
Conclusion
Thomond Park is one of the most iconic rugby stadiums in the world, and it’s a must-visit destination for any rugby fan. With its rich history, passionate fans, and state-of-the-art facilities, it’s easy to see why this is considered one of the best stadiums in Europe.
Whether you’re attending a match, taking a stadium tour, or simply exploring the surrounding area, there’s plenty to see and do at Thomond Park. So why not plan a visit today and experience the magic of this legendary stadium for yourself?
