The Official Airport Assistance Network of the World Airports
There are some useful alternatives to security before and after the food offered at Shannon isn't as varied as in the big European cities.
The Sheridan Bar & Restaurant is one of the most popular restaurants at the airport. It's the perfect place to have a meal and an Irish coffee before heading off to your flight, and is named after Joe Sheridan, who is credited with creating Irish coffee at Foynes.
If people prefer to have their coffee, pastries, sandwiches and fast food in a more relaxed environment, then Zest Food Market is the place to go. “JJ Ruddles” is another place for food and drinks at the airport.
It can be a good idea to call ahead if you're coming in early or late to see if the restaurant is open. Flights may be subject to change, and it's best to call ahead to make sure flights are available.
Shannon was a special place in duty-free retailing history, as in 1947, it became the first duty-free airport shop in the world.
Now the main duty-free shopping mall is the Loop. Alcoholic drinks, candies and souvenirs are sold, and perfumes can be bought, as well as cosmetic products and skin care. It's great to take off with some Irish products on board, especially for the passengers who want to bid the Irish parting.
Shannon Airport also houses retail outlets, such as newsstands and book sellers, vending machines and travel essentials. WHSmith is the place to read… and for a last-minute purchase and a drink.
Buy local, chocolate, locally-made spirits and other local products for gifting in Ireland. Shopping is generally very convenient, with Shannon's terminal being rather small; just make sure to set aside time to board your gate and the boarding time for U.S. Preclearance.
The Burren Lounge is the main lounge of Shannon Airport. It is located outside of the main departure flow, airside.
Usually, the seats are comfortable, there are refreshments, Wi-Fi access and space to unwind or study prior to taking off. Access to Airlines and Lounge programmes, and on paid entry terms.
Please check access and current opening times before travelling. For U.S. Preclearance flights, also take into account lounge time for the departure procedure.
Shannon Airport’s most important unique feature is U.S. Preclearance. Arrival into the U.S. may be much simpler as the eligible passengers finish U.S. border procedures prior to arriving.
In addition, the airport is very close to aviation history. Despite its size, Shannon is much more important than it looks on the surface, such as the location for transatlantic flights and as the birthplace of the world's first duty-free airport shop.
Stay inside the airport. Before you eat or drink coffee, before you go to The Loop, make all connections and then sit down and relax outside your gate or in the Burren Lounge (if you have one).
Have a nice meal, go shopping and use the lounge (if available). It may be possible to depart the airport depending on the time it takes you to immigrate and the size of your bags.
If you have a longer layover, you may be able to fly a short distance outside of the airport. The closest of the big attractions is Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, just be aware of the distance, timing and time buffer to return.
The Loop is a one-stop shop for all duty-free merchandise like perfumes, cosmetics, alcoholic beverages, candy and Irish keepsakes. The town of Shannon has been established since the airport became duty-free, and they were the home of it.
The most popular restaurants at the airport are: Zest Food Market, JJ Ruddles and The Sheridan Bar & Restaurant. This is not as many as at larger airports, so be sure to inquire about times for early and late flights.
The Burren Lounge is a less noisy, airside facility, and is available to those passengers and travellers who do meet the current access requirements.
Shannon Airport doesn't have a railway station. From Limerick, the airport is serviced by a bus which runs to Ennis, Galway and Cork. There are also taxis and car hire available, and a car hire might be necessary to visit western Ireland.
Wireless Internet, ATM, currency service, car rentals and accessibility are provided. If you need any mobility support during your travel with the Group, please plan in advance.