'Be a Tourist in Your Own County Clare' returns with special offers and experiences across the county

Clare County Council’s Tourism Department is inviting people across Limerick and beyond to rediscover what is on their doorstep as ‘Be a Tourist in Your Own County Clare’ returns for its fourth year on Saturday and Sunday, April 18 and 19.

The initiative encourages people to experience County Clare, plan a day out, follow their curiosity, explore places they may not have visited before and support local businesses. This year’s programme features a wide range of offers and experiences across the county, including up to 50% off admission at participating attractions, free entry at selected locations and a broad mix of heritage, nature, family, leisure, cultural and visitor experiences.

Visitors can go behind the scenes at a chocolate factory, cruise across Lough Derg or beneath the Cliffs of Moher, meet owls and alpacas, wander through historic sites, climb a lighthouse, explore caves and walled gardens, enjoy Burren walks, watch skilled sheepdogs in action, go birdwatching at dawn and more. These activities offer a fresh perspective on the county for all ages.

This year’s event holds extra significance as the Aillwee Burren Experience is celebrating 50 years since it first opened to the public in the summer of 1976. To mark the occasion, the iconic site is inviting the public to delve deep into the heart of the Burren with special guided cave tours and access to their Birds of Prey Centre. It is a unique opportunity to celebrate decades of local heritage at one of the county's most enduring natural landmarks.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Councillor Paul Murphy, said, “This exciting weekend offers the perfect opportunity for people to experience the rich heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique activities that make County Clare a standout destination. I encourage everyone, particularly families, to take advantage of the offers that are listed on: www.VisitClare.ie/wow and come out and enjoy the best of County Clare.”

Theresa Hughes Lannon, Acting Senior Executive Officer for Tourism Festivals and Events, Clare County Council, said, “This weekend is all about showcasing the attractions, activities, accommodations and dining experiences as well as stunning scenery, beaches and golf courses here in County Clare. I commend the participating attractions and events for providing generous discounts on admissions for the weekend.”

Sean Lally, Chair of the Clare Tourism Advisory Forum, added, “It is an increasingly competitive international tourism market, therefore growing and promoting our tourism offering to the domestic audience is vitally important, which is why I fully support the continuation and expansion of the ‘Be a Tourist in Your Own County Clare’ campaign.”

Each participating attraction or provider has set its own offer and dates. Most offers apply on Saturday April 18, Sunday April 19, or both, with a small number extending to Friday, April 17 or Monday, April 20, by exception.

Full details, including how to book and how to avail of each offer, are available at www.VisitClare.ie/wow

Visitors are encouraged to check individual websites in advance, as booking arrangements, availability and access requirements vary. Many offers require online booking, often using a promotional code at the time of booking, while others may require a voucher or allow walk-in access.

As places are limited for some experiences, early booking is advised.

Organised by Clare County Council’s Tourism, Festivals & Events Department, ‘Be a Tourist in Your Own County Clare’ continues to promote and support businesses and attractions across the county while enjoying memorable days out in County Clare.

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