The name of this cache stems from the peacocks which roam the
local park, and the presence of Ballygowan and Nash’s mineral
water in the town.
Historically, Newcastle West is a medieval town, which was
occupied by the Knights Templar and the beautiful Desmond Hall,
situated in The Square, is the focal point of the town. The Capital
town of Co. Limerick, Newcastle West is at the very heart of the
territory of the Earls of Desmond, the Norman Fitzgerald family who
founded the town in the 13th Century.
The Desmond Banqueting Hall is an imposing two-storey structure
and was used by the Earls of Desmond for banquets and
entertainment. The hall, vaulted lower chamber and adjoining tower
were all constructed during the 15th century (the hall and chamber
were built on the remains of a 13th century structure of similar
size). Its restored medieval features include an oak musicians'
gallery and a limestone hooded fireplace.
The town is clustered with buildings of historic interest, just
to mention a few, the Courthouse built in 1842 and the old Railway
Station which was built in 1867, the monument which was unveiled by
President Sean T. O Kelly commemorates 17 volunteers who died in
the war of Independence and the Civil War. Opposite this monument
stands the Church of the Immaculate Conception which was built in
1828. Other buildings include St Ita's Hospital, the Parish Hall,
the Carnegie Library and the Courtenay Boy's School.
Newcastle West serves as the capital of the county, as well as a
market, service and employment centre for a large rural hinterland.
One of the fastest growing towns in Europe, Newcastle West has a
present population of approximately 8,000 people.
Situated on the N21, Newcastle West is recognised as the gateway
to the south west of Ireland, being located just twenty minutes
drive from Limerick city and just a mere hour from Killarney.