Best seats · Limerick
Best spots at King John's Castle, Limerick - the courtyard gigs
By The MyCritik editorial team · information checked on 15 October 2026 · 2 min read
In 1200 King John ordered a fortress on the site of a Viking settlement by the Shannon. Eight centuries later Dolan's, the Limerick pub and promoter, turned its courtyard into a summer gig venue. The Coronas opened it with a sold-out show on 30 April 2016. Since then the walls have hosted Kraftwerk, Van Morrison, Crowded House, Madness and, in 2026, two nights of Pixies and Patti Smith.
The layout of King John's Castle
- The courtyard
- Standing on gravel or cobbles: wear flat, closed shoes. For the barrier, arrive when doors open.
- Along the side walls
- Close to the walls you see the stage at a slant.
- Our pick
- Halfway back, near the sound desk: the best mix, and room to move.
The layout
Gigs take place in the castle courtyard, inside the curtain walls, with the crowd standing on the open ground in front of the stage. The first Coronas show was a 2,000-capacity concert, and that is roughly the size of a big night here. It is open-air, so it goes ahead in Limerick weather.
Because the walls close the yard in, there is no far-off back field like at a stadium. The castle's Castle Suite also overlooks the courtyard and the Shannon, and hosts smaller indoor gigs of its own.
King John's Castle in a few dates
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1200
King John orders a fortress on the site of a Viking settlement by the Shannon.
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2016
The Coronas open Live at the Castle on 30 April, a sold-out 2,000-capacity show.
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2026
Two nights of Pixies and Patti Smith in the courtyard.
Where to stand
- Front and centre: get there when doors open if you want the barrier. Sold-out shows are tightly packed.
- Halfway back, near the sound desk: best mix, and room to move.
- Towards the back: easier for the bar, the toilets and the exit, and the walls keep the sound full.
- Sides: watch for the angle. Close to the walls you see the stage at a slant.
Check the ticket type for your date on dolans.ie before you go.
Surface and access
The castle's own site describes the courtyard as cobbled on one page and gravel on another. Either way it is uneven. Wear flat, closed shoes, not sandals or heels. The castle says the courtyard surface may be challenging for wheelchair users, and it is only partly wheelchair accessible overall. Ring Dolan's on 061 314 483 to arrange access before buying.
Timings
Frequently asked questions
What is the capacity of King John's Castle for concerts?
Around 2,000, the size of the first sold-out Coronas gig in 2016. It varies by show.
Are concerts at King John's Castle standing or seated?
Mostly standing, in the castle courtyard. Check the event listing for your date.
Is King John's Castle wheelchair accessible for gigs?
Partly. The courtyard surface is uneven and may be difficult for wheelchair users, so contact Dolan's before booking.
What should I wear to Live at the Castle?
Flat, sturdy shoes for the uneven courtyard, and a rain jacket, as it is open-air.