Historically, Newcastle West is a medieval town, which was occupied by the Knights Templar. 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 Desmond Country. It's an ancient town, which formed part of the territory of the Earls of Desmond, the Norman Fitzgerald family who founded the town in the 13th Century.

West Limerick preserves many of Ireland's surviving spacious medieval halls. 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 including the Courthouse built in 1842, the old Railway Station which was built in 1867 and the old IRA monument. The monument which was opened by President Sean T. O Kelly commemorates 17 volunteers who were killed 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. Fortunately in Newcastle West our language and heritage are very important and are supported by our community. In 1980 Newcastle West received a coat of arms, the motto used is "As Dúchas Dóchas" which translates to "our hope springs from our traditions".

The Demesne is a large area of amenity parkland located adjacent to the town centre and providing an impressive array of leisure and sporting facilities. Over the past number of years the council has been conducting works throughout the parkland including new walkways, planting trees, clearing away overgrown bush's and the building of a new bridge over the river which flows through the parkland.

Home to the Limerick County Council, 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 long recognised as the gateway to the south west of Ireland. The town is located just twenty minutes drive from Limerick City and just a mere hour from Killarney. It's strategic location is one of the many reasons for the town's thriving success through recent years.