What is recorded here

Clonroad castle stood beside a thriving town where shops crowded the lane and two annual fairs drew traders from across Clare. The 1553 raid exposed that size, yet by 1703 only a few shops remained active. The sudden loss of so many lives and homes still puzzles, suggesting a swift collapse rather than a slow fade.

In the vicinity of Clonroad castle (CL033-085001-). The account of a raid on Clonroad castle in 1553 makes it clear that there was a substantial settlement associated with the castle and by 1703 Moland could still record ‘a few shops’ and the holding of two annual fairs there (Ó Dálaigh 1987, 16; Bradley, Halpin and King 1988, 80). The extent of the settlement is not known. Compiled by: Mary Tunney Date of upload: 23 April 2014

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.