Thoughts on Limerick?

We drove by on our RS Ireland tour. Our tour leader described it as " industrial". He said that crime is an issue, not necessarily to tourists but that there are a couple of warring families and people get caught in the crossfire. I have no information myself. Just repeating what we were told.

Thank you for the info. Trying to decide if we want to add it to our upcoming trip!

It's a matter of priorities I suppose. With all of the attractions in the west of Ireland I doubt that Limerick would break into anyone's list of the top 20...or top 50 come to that.

I remember passing it through on the busses from Galway to DIngle and didn't think much of it. I think there are SO many more beautiful spots to stay, like an extra night in Dingle! : ) Industrial as I recall...

Greetings from Ireland, Limerick is a fine city, very authentic, has a great history (how many cities have a fully-preserved 12th century Norman castle perched riverside in the city-centre?) and has very welcoming people with a very strong and proud identity.
Crime there is slightly higher than the national norm but confined to certain neighbourhoods, so there is likely a ZERO chance you would ever get caught up in any "crossfire".
The city is not industrial in its feel, as there is little or no industry there. It has the feel of a large market town, the very centre of town in fact has some lovely Georgian architecture and grand terraced houses with fanlights above the colourful doors, just like in Dublin.
Ideally try and be there when Limerick are playing hurling or munster playing Rugby, to get a feel for the local passion and pride of place. Otherwise one night may be enough to visit the museum (the more famous is www.huntmuseum.com), King Johns castle and find dinner in one of the many great restaurants or pubs.
Le meas/with respect
Stephen McPhilemy
Rick Steves Ireland Tour-Guide
Dingle, Derry and Dublin.

Thank you Stephen! As one of the RS tour folks, I consider your opinion highly. Thank you for taking the time!