NEWCASTLE WEST

'Newcastle West' (''An Caisleán Nua Thiar'' in Irish) is a town in west County Limerick, Ireland. The town is the largest town in County Limerick, excluding Limerick city, and is sited on the River Arra which flows into the Deel. It is located on the N21 road from Limerick to Tralee, between Rathkeale and Abbeyfeale.
The banqueting hall of the Desmond Castle, seat of the Earl of Desmond, parts of which date from the 13th century, in the main square is the most notable historical feature of the town.
The town was connected to the railway network up until 1973, as part of the "North Kerry" line, from Limerick city to Tralee, via Rathkeale and Listowel. The station house has been restored and survives in private ownership.
About 7 kilometres west of the town is the scenic view point at Barnagh Gap, which provides a good view over west Co. Limerick and north Co. Cork.