Living in Listowel: A Jewel in the Kingdom’s Crown

Kerry is one of Ireland’s most breathtaking counties, with rugged mountains and lush green countryside. The majestic landscape and lively culture make it a great place to put down roots. And one of the true gems of the Kingdom is the bustling heritage town of Listowel on the banks of the River Feale. The hometown of iconic Irish author and playwright John B. Keane is full of vibrant colours, history, and is something of a literary hotspot for all the culture vultures out there.

An Ideal Location

Listowel is a great base to explore what Kerry has to offer. The major town of Tralee is just 30 minutes away by car, and you can take in the bracing coastal views of the Dingle Peninsula in a little over an hour - perfect for a weekend getaway. If you’re going further afield, Kerry Airport is only a 40-minute drive. Business is booming in the surrounding areas too, and there are plenty of career opportunities in areas like engineering, marketing and manufacturing. For those interested in hospitality, there are ample options to gain experience in the tourism hotspot of North Kerry.

The Great Outdoors

Kerry is a place that’s steeped in history with strong links to Ireland’s ancient past, and Listowel is no exception. Dating all the way back to the 12th century, Listowel Castle is now a national monument and is well worth a visit. For those who love taking in a bit of nature, there’s the Listowel River Walk, where you can enjoy lovely views from the banks of the Feale. The beautiful Garden Of Europe is in Childers Park, and with over 2,500 species of plants, it’s a nature buff’s paradise. For a great day out and a chance to get your glad rags on, the Listowel Races are unbeatable. One of Ireland’s biggest racing events, it has been held in the town for over 150 years.

A Writer’s Town

If you’re a bookworm, you’ll be right at home in Listowel. The town’s pride in its literary heritage is a wonderful thing, and Listowel Writer’s Week is a prime example. Held since 1970, it’s Ireland’s oldest and most prestigious literary festival. The event celebrates the iconic writers that have come out of North Kerry like John B. Keane and Brendan Kennelly, as well as holding workshops, storytelling events, exhibitions and competitions throughout the week. Seamus Heaney, Anne Enright, Irvine Welsh and Lionel Shriver are just a handful of the acclaimed authors to have paid a visit to the festival, so you never know who you might bump into! Another highlight for literature lovers is the award-winning Kerry Writer’s museum or Seanchaí, where you can learn about local writers and enjoy a meal in the beautiful Georgian tea room.

Fun For Families

Listowel has plenty to offer families, and you’re also in a perfect spot to go a little further afield for a big day out. On sunny days you can pack up the car and take a trip to the seaside town of Ballybunion or make a splash at one of Ireland’s biggest waterparks, Tralee’s Aquadome. If you’re feeling peckish, the farmer’s market is held every Friday in the colourful town square. You and yours will be spoiled for choice with organic produce, fresh seafood and mouthwatering home bakes. Better still, the Listowel Food Fair takes place every November with tonnes of delicious events, including kids baking classes for your little foodies.

A Pint With An Icon

When it’s time to put your feet up at the end of the day, there’s no better place than John B. Keane’s pub. This famous bar is where the man himself wrote many of his masterpieces long after last orders had been taken. Now run by the late author’s son Billy, it’s a special place. Writers and artists often pop in to get inspired by the unique atmosphere, but it’s also a great shout for a round of pints and some great music.

Making The Move With AIB

If Listowel seems like the perfect fit for you, why not check out our handy mortgage calculator to get an idea of what your repayments on a mortgage would be right now.

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