From Northern to the Republic of Ireland, the gorgeous landscapes, forest inexperienced shades and melodic nature have rightfully earned the nation the nickname ‘the Emerald Isle’. The nation has a wealthy heritage within the type of prehistoric monuments, historic ruins, fortified palaces and, after all, spectacular Irish castles to make you’re feeling like a princess. From crumbled ruins to lavish resorts, I went on a hunt for the most effective Irish castles.
While there isn’t any official depend (rumor has it that there’s over 30,000!), there are literally thousands of castles in Ireland entwined with unusual myths and legends, the great thing about rumbling ruins and towering fortresses. Whether you want to discover by yourself, take a tour or keep the night time in a fortress lodge, listed below are the most effective castles in Ireland so as to add to your bucket listing.
Irish Castle Hotels to Stay In
1. Ashford Castle (Cong)
A Best Irish Castles listing wouldn’t be full with mentioning some of the well-known in Ireland, Ashford Castle. It might remind you just a little of Hogwarts, with lush inexperienced hillsides and forest on one facet, and a grand lake on the opposite. The spectacular 800 yr previous fortress holds a timeless appeal and wonder.
It is a additionally an ideal household attraction, as you may plan horseback driving, fishing, and guided excursions of the country fortress with pastoral stone towers and bridges. Over the years, it has been expanded and become a 5 star fortress lodge, combining trendy facilities with royal and rustic vibes. So, if a keep in a fortress is in your bucket listing, this might be an attractive place to do it.
Read More: Here’s What It’s Like to Stay in an 800-Year-Old Irish Castle
Ashford Castle: Website
Stay at Ashford Castle: Check Rates
2. Dromoland Castle (Newmarket on Fergus)
If you’re in search of a really luxurious Irish trip with Celtic vibes, Dromoland Castle is an ideal choice. The five-star fortress lodge permits you an opportunity to reside like kings and queens. The lodge is a advantageous mixture of old-world class and up to date comforts the place you’ll be handled like royalty.
The Sixteenth-century fortress is encapsulated by lush gardens dotted with swaying timber, roses, and lily ponds. There is huge 18-hole championship golf course, strolling and mountaineering trails, a tennis courtroom, and alternatives to strive mountain biking, archery, clay pigeon capturing and falconry.
We spent a morning there studying the artwork of falconry, and later within the day at Dromoland’s Afternoon Tea, a protracted standing custom, crammed with scrumptious pastries, bite-size sandwiches and naturally scorching tea.
Read More: Sleeping in Dromoland Castle in Ireland
Dromoland Castle: Website
Stay at Dromoland Castle: Check Rates
3. Lough Eske Castle Hotel (Donegal)
Lough Eske Castle is a five-star lodge mendacity on the sandy shores of Lough Eske and its tributaries. The fortress is about on 43 acres, surrounded by verdant forested paths, green-blanketed hills and secluded spots making it a preferred spot for getaway. Even when you don’t spend the night time, it’s price a cease to only stroll the grounds and perhaps get a chew to eat.
Also, when you imagine the native folklore, then you definitely may come throughout the terrifying Lough Eske Monster that’s rumored to lurk inside the depths of the lake.
Read More: Travel: Lough Eske Castle, Ireland
Lough Eske Castle Hotel: Website
Stay at Lough Eske Castle Hotel: Check Rates
4. Abbeyglen Castle (Clifden)
Abbeyglen Castle is a historic fortress positioned within the city of Clifden, west of Ireland. The fortress was in-built 1832 by John d’Arcy, a rich landowner, and handed by way of a number of totally different fingers through the years till 1969, when the Hughes household bought the property. It has since undergone in depth renovation and restoration work to the premier lodge that we now know.
Today, Abbeyglen Castle is one among Ireland’s hottest vacationer locations, and is understood for its gorgeous views of the Twelve Bens Mountains and Atlantic Ocean. Some different sights embrace The Old Clifden Pier, The d’Arcy Monument, and Clifden Castle.
Visitors to the fortress can take pleasure in good lodging and totally different actions, together with horse driving, golf, and clay pigeon capturing. They additionally host varied occasions all year long, reminiscent of weddings and banquets.
Abbeyglen Castle: Website
Stay at Abbeyglen Castle: Check Rates
5. Cabra Castle (Kingscourt)
Cabra Castle in Ireland is a historic web site that has been standing since 1699. The fortress was initially constructed by the O’Reilly household and served as their stronghold for a few years. In the mid-Seventeenth century, the Castle was efficiently besieged by Cromwell’s forces in the course of the Irish Confederate Wars. The Castle then modified fingers a number of occasions earlier than being restored within the early Nineteenth century.
Today, Cabra Castle is open to the general public, guests can ebook a room for lodging, and there are many actions to do. Some of those actions embrace exploring the totally different strolling trails contained in the close by Dún A Rí Forest Park or visiting different native points of interest just like the prehistoric passage graves in Brú na Bóinne. The Castle can also be house to stunning gardens and grounds, making it effectively price a go to for anybody considering Irish historical past or tradition.
Cabra Castle: Website
Stay at Cabra Castle: Check Rates
6. Crom Castle (Newtownbutler)
Crom Castle is a historic fortress positioned in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. The authentic fortress was constructed within the early Seventeenth century. However, as a result of a home fireplace, it was destroyed in 1764. Only elements of the unique wall, two towers, and a ha-ha are what stays of the Old Castle.
A more moderen fortress was in-built 1840, which is what we see at the moment. Although it’s owned and occupied by the Crichton household (Earls of Erne), the West Wing is open for lease to the general public. For teams of as much as 19 folks, the West Wing is rented out year-round on a weekly or lengthy weekend foundation.
You can even go for a comfy vacation getaway to one among their seven self-catering cottages, pitch your tent on two of their family-friendly campsites, and even go glamping at their glamping pods.
Some actions you are able to do embrace ogling the Old Castle stays, recognizing uncommon wildlife like pine martens and pink squirrels, and exploring Inisherk Island’s woodland path on a motorcycle.
Crom Castle: Website
Stay at Crom Castle: Check Rates
7. Kilronan Castle (Ballyfarnon)
Kilronan Castle is an 18th-century fortress positioned in County Roscommon, Ireland. It is open to the general public as a lodge and spa, and it is likely one of the hottest vacationer points of interest within the space.
The Kilronan Castle welcomes guests by way of a set of spectacular medieval gates on the finish of a winding driveway by way of an previous woodland. The fortress is surrounded by fifty acres of lush inexperienced property and located near a picturesque lough, giving it a fantasy look.
While eating at Kilronan Castle is likely one of the best eating experiences in Ireland, visitors at Kilronan Castle Estate are handled to opulent fortress lodging with 4 poster mattresses and vintage furnishings. Pampering oneself can also be inside attain at their enjoyable spa, which affords totally different facial remedies and massages.
Kilronan Castle: Website
Stay at Kilronan Castle: Check Rates
Castle in Ireland To See
8. Belfast Castle (Belfast)
Sitting on the green-clad slopes of Cavehill Country Park in Northern Ireland, Belfast Castle charms its guests with its storybook setting, lush gardens, and splendid vistas. The fortress is now a luxurious convention heart and an ideal venue on your big day.
Have delicious meals of their Victorian-style cellar throughout one of many native meals excursions, study concerning the park’s folklore and historical past on the exhibition, and go to the fortress to realize the legendary luck that the fortress bestows upon its residents.
Belfast Castle: Website
9. Blarney Castle (Blarney)
Situated 8 km from Cork City, the medieval stronghold homes the well-known Blarney Stone that lures 1000’s of individuals to kiss it. Myself included! There is a mysterious block of carboniferous limestone set into the wall under the battlements, and to kiss it, the individual has to carry the railing and lean backwards.
Rumor has it that the one who kisses the stone is endowed with ‘blarney’ that’s, the reward of the gab. I initially went to the fortress for an opportunity to kiss the stone in hopes to obtain some eloquence and appeal. Not so certain it labored.
But, there extra to this place then merely the well-known stone. Just check out the Irish fortress and its environment, and you’ll really feel historical past dripping down its every block. Apart from the stone, there are lavish gardens, brooks and streams, and woody arboretums. Visit the Bog Garden that has a few of oldest timber, waterfalls and a picket boardwalk lined with Giant Rhubarb.
Then there’s the Seven Sisters which is known as after the tragic story of a king and his youngsters boasting stunning flowers and mystical rocks. If you dare, enter the Poison Garden. You will discover a few of the most poisonous and toxic crops caged up. After exploring the various gardens, go to the totally romantic Rock Close and stroll down the Wishing Steps, make an exhilarating climb to the battlements, try the Witch Kitchen and its dying embers and discover the fortress from each angle.
Read More: Kiss the Blarney Stone in Ireland
Belfast Castle: Website
10. Doe Castle (Castledoe)
Doe Castle is a medieval stronghold of Clan MacSweeney for over 200 years. Set upon a peninsula encircled by water and timber, the fortress is in shut proximity to Creeslough within the county of Donegal. Today, it’s thought of a nationwide monument and a preferred spot for proposing your family members (how candy would that be?!?).
The grounds of the fortress are open all yr spherical, and through summertime, you may take guided excursions of the towers.
Doe Castle: Website
11. Donegal Castle (Donegal)
Sitting majestically alongside the awe-inspiring curve of River Eske, Donegal Castle is an iconic monument positioned within the heart of Donegal Town (subsequent to some nice pubs!). The fortress was a Viking fortress within the Twelfth century. It was rebuilt to the fortress in fifteenth century by the O’Donnell clan.
You can discover the fortress by yourself or take a guided tour of the rooms inside the fortress that may supply glimpses of the previous in types of furnishings and decor.
Read More: Donegal Castle
Donegal Castle: Website
12. Dunluce Castle (Bushmills)
Dunluce is a ruined medieval fortress that sits on the sheer cliffs of the causeway coast in Northern Ireland. Though the Dunluce Castle is in ruins, it has a wealthy historical past to inform. A go to might carry you again to tumultuous occasions of the fifteenth century, an period of violence and riot. But, its magnificence nonetheless prevails.
Read More: Dunluce Castle
Dunluce Castle: Website
13. Enniskillen Castle (Enniskillen)
Sitting beside the River Erne in Northern Ireland’s county of Fermanagh, the picturesque fortress of Enniskillen is a 600 yr previous treasure discovered proper in the midst of the small Irish city of the identical identify. I needed to maneuver some heavy visitors to get there, however it was price it!
You can discover the museums nestled contained in the fortress and its enchanting environment. Fermanagh County Museum is open throughout the yr and options award-winning reveals on Ireland’s prehistoric historical past, nature, wildlife and landscapes, tradition, traditions, and much more.
Read More: A Brief History of Enniskillen Castle
Enniskillen Castle: Website
14. Glenveagh Castle (Church Hill)
Built in 1867, Glenveagh Castle is a humongous mansion with castellated towers positioned inside the perimeters of Glenveagh National Park within the county of Donegal. The fortress is encircled by the famend Glenveagh Gardens, idyllic lakes, slim valleys and mountains, and a serene atmosphere.
Though you may stroll to the fortress from the parks customer’s heart, to avoid wasting time I took the shuttle that dropped me off proper on the entrance door.
Read More: Glenveagh Castle & Glenveagh National Park
Glenveagh Castle: Website
15. Kilkenny Castle (Kilkenny)
The historical past of Kilkenny Castle may be traced again to the Thirteenth century, so it’s fairly spectacular to see that it’s nonetheless totally restored and effectively maintained. The fortress has a contemporary vibe with well timed renovations and tasteful artwork gallery and gardens. It is surrounded by fifty acres of rolling parklands crammed with unique wildlife and towering timber.
Read More: Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny Castle: Website
16. Malahide Castle (Broomfield)
If you’re staying in Dublin, the gorgeous Malahide Castle is just 30-minutes from town heart. Explore the personal rooms adorned with tasteful artwork and rustic furnishings and uncover the 800 years’ price of heritage held inside the fortress partitions. The stunning 260 acre parkland close to the fortress is included as a part of the tour and incorporates over 5000 unique crops and a butterfly home!
Read More: Malahide Castle
Malahide Castle: Website
17. Ross Castle (Killarney)
Ross fortress was constructed within the fifteenth century, and the construction overlooks the tranquil Killarney’s decrease lake. There’s quite a lot of mystic attract and folktales surrounding the fortress, one among which states that O’Donoghue – the builder of the fortress, remains to be alive on the backside of the lake in a deep slumber and resurfaces each seven years to circle the lake.
Take a ship journey to the Ross Castle and be assured of fine fortune when you catch a glimpse of mighty O’Donoghue!
Read More: Ross Castle – Ireland’s Tall Maiden (History & Travel Tips)
Malahide Castle: Website
18. Slane Castle (Slane)
Slane Castle is an architectural prodigy with a theatrical setting by the flowing river Boyne, and a backdrop of the Boyne Valley of County Meath. The fortress serves as a venue for occasions and celebrations. But, much more bucket listing worthy then simply visiting the fortress is to attend one among their live shows. Yep, you may see a live performance at a fortress! Bands like U2 and the Rolling Stones have carried out there prior to now. Keep you eye out on their live performance schedule to see who’s arising subsequent.
You can take guided excursions and soak up the great thing about the majestic ballroom, historic bedrooms, intriguing staircases and the Celtic tales behind the artifacts and relics.
One of the most effective elements about this fortress is that it’s proper subsequent door to the Slane Whiskey Distillery the place you may have a pre-castle Irish whiskey tasting!
Read More: The Irish Castle Saved by Rock ‘n’ Roll
Slane Castle: Website
19. Trim Castle (Trim)
If you’re a fan of Braveheart, then it’s essential to cease at Trim Castle which was one of many areas for filming. It is the biggest Norman fortress in Ireland and a guided tour of the magnificent Norman structure is effectively price your time. It is partly restored and surrounded by lush inexperienced grounds.
You can stroll the trail across the fortress and alongside the Boyne River to absorb its gorgeous magnificence from all angles. The ruins of the fortress have a narrative to inform, because it stands because the bones of what as soon as was a grandiose structure.
Read More: Trim Castle
Trim Castle: Website
20. Birr Castle (Birr)
Birr Castle is a historic web site in Ireland that’s wealthy in historical past. The Castle was constructed atop a motte in the course of the Anglo-Norman interval, and later handed into the fingers of the O’Carroll clan, who held it for hundreds of years. Today, it serves as the house of the Parsons household.
Although the fortress will not be open to the general public, there are many fascinating issues to see on its grounds. These embrace reward retailers, cafes, Ireland’s Historic Science Center, walled and that includes the tallest field hedges on the planet, and extra. Visitors can even have a stroll into their parklands, waterfalls, and treehouse playgrounds. Birr Castle is an enchanting web site that gives a glimpse into Ireland’s wealthy historical past.
Read More: Birr Castle
Birr Castle: Website
21. Blackrock Castle (Blackrock)
Blackrock Castle is positioned on the banks of the River Lee, not removed from Cork City Center. Blackrock Castle, as soon as utilized to maintain town protected from pirates, now serves as a useful observatory. The fortress had quite a few possession modifications within the twentieth century; it served largely as a gathering venue and firm headquarters.
Today, you may tour the fortress, examine the self-guided science reveals, and have interaction in interactive exhibit recreation play throughout your go to. The science reveals take you thru up to date discoveries on Earth and deep area, whereas the tour takes you thru the historical past of smugglers and pirates within the fortress. Even a planetarium efficiency is out there.
Read More: A Castellated Fortification – Blackrock Castle
Blackrock Castle: Website
22. Bunratty Castle (Bunratty)
Powerful and majestic, Bunratty Castle guidelines the world during which it’s positioned. This spectacular Castle may be plainly seen lengthy earlier than reaching Bunratty due to its superb location only a brief distance from the Shannon Estuary, 15 kilometers west of Limerick City, and 12 kilometers from Shannon Airport.
Today, a yearly Middle Ages-style banquet is held at Bunratty Castle, and is open to guests all yr. The Castle’s design additionally shows its earlier splendor, with the medieval theme adorning a number of of its chambers. It additionally has an ideal corridor, bedrooms, towers, and plenty of gardens.
Read More: Castles of Ireland: Bunratty Castle
Bunratty Castle: Website
23. Cahir Castle (Cahir)
The popularity of being one among Ireland’s largest and greatest preserved castles belongs to Cahir Castle. You might get a strong understanding of the traditional defenses utilized by castles throughout this era by taking a tour of this gorgeous constructing.
Visitors can discover the various rooms and towers and see what life was like for the fortress’s residents centuries in the past. Even when you’re not significantly considering historical past, Cahir Castle is price a go to for its sheer measurement and wonder. So when you’re ever in Ireland, be sure you add Cahir Castle to your itinerary.
Read More: Visiting Cahir Castle in Cahir, Ireland
Cahir Castle: Website
24. Carrickfergus Castle (Carrickfergus)
For all lovers of historical past and tradition, Carrickfergus Castle is a must-see location. Located on the seashores of Belfast Lough, this outstanding 800-year-old monument is an integral aspect of Irish tradition as a complete and is taken into account the most effective instance of Norman development.
A go to will allow you to discover the totally different areas within the fortress, with scenic views of the ocean and varied historic artifacts (like cannons) and statues on show.
Read More: Discover Carrickfergus Castle: The Strongman
Carrickfergus Castle: Website
25. Castle Ward (Strangford)
Castle Ward is a constructing with a view of the Strangford Lough locally of Strangford in County Down, Northern Ireland. The National Trust at the moment owns the fortress, which was constructed within the 18th century for The First Viscount of Bangor. Because Lord Bangor and his spouse Lady Ann Bligh had various tastes in design, the fortress was constructed using a mix of two totally different architectural types.
Today, Castle Ward is open to the general public as a vacationer attraction and historic web site. Visitors can discover the home and gardens, and study concerning the fortress’s historical past by way of guided excursions and audio-visual displays. And when you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you may even acknowledge a few of the areas used on the present, particularly at Castle Ward.
Read More: Castle Ward: The National Trust’s Winterfell
Castle Ward: Website
26. Castlefreke Castle (Castlefreke)
In the village of Rathbarry stands Castlefreke Castle, one among Ireland’s much less well-known castles. It was constructed in the course of the fifteenth century and was generally known as Rathbarry, named after its authentic house owners, the Barry household. During the Seventeenth century, the Freke household acquired the fortress and renamed it Castlefreke. Ongoing renovations are being made by Stephen Evans-Freke (youngest son of the late eleventh Lord Carbery), with plans to maneuver their family-owned distillery to the fortress’s restored wing.
Due to security causes, getting close to the property will not be potential. Nevertheless, the fortress is as gorgeous as the encompassing views of the ocean, woodlands, and gardens. You can even discover the ruins of a Nineteenth-century church and graveyard across the fortress’s space.
Read More: Castle Freke
Castlefreke: Website
24. Classiebawn Castle (Mullaghmore)
On the Mullaghmore Peninsula in County Sligo, Classiebawn Castle was a late Nineteenth-century rural residence meant for The third Viscount Palmerston. The viscount handed away earlier than its completion in 1874 and was handed right down to totally different folks through the years.
One of its earlier house owners, Lord Mountbatten, met a tragic destiny when his ship was blown up by the IRA in 1979, giving rise to eerie legends concerning the fortress. According to legend, his ghost remains to be wandering the fortress’s corridors, unable to seek out relaxation after his violent and sudden passing.
Today, the fortress and 3000 acres of the encompassing lands are owned by the property of Hugh Tunney. Although getting shut is inconceivable because of the fortress being on personal land, its spectacular facade because it sits on a hill overlooking Mullaghmore village and the Atlantic Ocean is unquestionably a panoramic sight price seeing.
Read More: Classiebawn Castle: Owned by Royals and Inhabited by Ghosts
Classiebawn Castle: Website
25. Clough Oughter Castle (Lough Ooughter)
Built on a man-made island (known as a crannog) within the heart of the Lough Oughter community of waterways, the fairytale-like Clough Oughter Castle is actually a sight to behold. This round fortress has stood for the reason that 1200s, coming underneath management by totally different clans on the time. Fast ahead a number of hundred years, it primarily served as a jail underneath insurgent pressure’s management in the course of the Irish Rebellion of 1641. In March 1653, it got here underneath heavy cannon fireplace from Commonwealth forces, the harm nonetheless seen till today.
As the fortress is surrounded by water, the one technique to attain it’s by boat/kayak. Visitors can discover the fortress ruins and revel in a pleasant picnic on the small island. It can also be close to different points of interest just like the scenic Killykeen Forest Park.
Read More: Magical Ireland: Welcome To Clough Oughter (A Castle On A Man-Made Island In Cavan)
Clough Oughter Castle: Website
26. Doonagore Castle (Ballycullaun)
Doolin’s well-known tower home fortress, Doonagore Castle, is perched on a hill overlooking Doolin Point. The boats which are approaching Doolin pier use this as one among their navigational markers. With a view of Doolin Point, the Aran Islands, Clare, and the hills of Connemara past, it really is one thing out of a fairy story. As the fortress is a personal vacation house, it’s inaccessible to the general public.
Read More: Doonagore Castle: The Disney-Like Tower In County Clare That Witnessed 170 Murders
Doonagore Castle: Website
27. Dublin Castle (Dublin)
The Dublin Castle is Dublin’s historic heart, rating among the many most important buildings in Irish historical past. It received its identify from the normal Irish phrases “Dubh Linn,” which implies black pool, referring to the physique of water close to the place the Castle was constructed. The Castle underwent in depth reconstruction within the late Seventeenth and early 18th centuries, altering it from a medieval bulwark to a Georgian mansion.
You can go to Dublin Castle as a vacationer and consider areas such because the State Apartments and different exhibitions your self, or on a guided tour when you additionally want to see the Medieval Undercroft and Chapel Royal.
Read More: Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle: Website
28. Dunamase Castle (Dunamaise)
You might uncover the gorgeous Twelfth-century hilltop fortress spoil generally known as Dunamase Castle atop a landform generally known as the Rock of Dunamase in County Laois, about an hour and a half south-southwest of Dublin. It was a Christian settlement again within the ninth century, earlier than it was attacked by the Vikings of Dublin in 845. The fortress itself was constructed across the later half of the Twelfth century. Although no data inform how the place went into spoil, native legends say it was blown up by Cromwellian forces in the course of the 1650s.
Today, the fortress is free to see and prepared so that you can discover. An audio information can also be accessible on the County Laois web site, which supplies you an summary of its historical past and the totally different areas that comprise the fortress ruins. Of course, the hilltop may also deal with you with scenic countryside views, which provides extra to the expertise.
Read More: Visit The Rock od Dunamaise
Dunamaise Castle: Website
29. Dunguaire Castle (Kinvarra)
This medieval fortress, which may be seen in County Galway not removed from the group of Kinvara, was the middle of Ireland’s literary renaissance. On the seashores of Galway Bay, the O’Hynes household constructed Dunguaire Castle round 1520. Oliver St. John Gogarty, a well known surgeon, and creator, bought the fortress in 1924 and repaired the curtain partitions and tower home.
Since Shannon Group now owns the fortress, its yearly Medieval Banquets proceed the customs of King Guaire and Sixteenth-century Ireland. You can ascend to the tower home’s high for breathtaking views of Kinvara and Galway Bay. The 4 tales of the fortress, in addition to the fortress’s outdoors can each be explored.
Read More: Dunguaire Castle
Dunguaire Castle: Website
30. Hillsborough Royal Castle (Hillsborough)
Hillsborough Castle is an entire British royal treasure which may be discovered within the village of Hillsborough, County Down in Northern Ireland. The fortress, which was constructed within the 18th century, is extra akin to a Georgian nation home. When visiting Northern Ireland, members of the British royal household have an official residence on the fortress.
In current years, the fortress has undergone in depth refurbishment and is now open to the general public for excursions and occasions. Hillsborough Castle is a dwelling reminder of Ireland’s wealthy historical past, and affords guests a singular glimpse into British royalty.
Read More: The historic grounds of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens
Hillsborough Royal Castle: Website
31. King John’s Castle (Limerick)
King John’s Castle is a Thirteenth-century fortress positioned on King’s Island in Limerick, Ireland, initially constructed to defend the river crossing. The fortress was considerably broken throughout these sieges, and far of it was demolished afterwards. An enormous rebuilding was made throughout 2011 to 2013, which added trendy amenities and enhancements to the fortress.
Today, the imprints of the wattle and daub medieval properties, the unique ringed city partitions, and later extensions and battlements, which allowed the fortress to develop into a major strategic bastion between rival factions within the space, are all nonetheless seen at the moment. You can even take a tour contained in the fortress, see their interactive exhibitions, and even take pleasure in views of the courtyard and river at their cafe.
Read More: King John’s Castle
King John’s Castle: Website
32. Kylemore Castle (Pollacappul)
Kylemore Abbey, which has a extremely Victorian really feel, is house to the Benedictine Order of Nuns, who’ve resided within the abbey since 1920. Located within the Connemara area in western County Galway, it includes a spectacular walled backyard, a number of nature paths, a neo-gothic church, and an unimaginable fortress with over 70 rooms.
The structure has a fragile facet, and the fortress’s location proper subsequent to a peaceable lake provides guests the sensation that they’re touring again in time. So whether or not you’re considering its historical past or magnificence, Kylemore Castle is price a go to.
Read More: Kylemore Abbey – the unimaginable story of an Irish fortress on a lake
Kylemore Castle: Website
33. Leamaneh Castle (County Clare)
Leamaneh Castle’s ruins are positioned within the heart of a personal farmland on the perimeters of the Burren in County Clare, Ireland. As such, getting shut will not be potential. One can solely gaze in admiration on the fortress because it has been in ruins for the reason that 18th century.
Most bus excursions of the Burren, a big, rocky space masking a lot of southern County Clare, will make a short halt right here so you could take some pictures. On the facet of the highway, there’s a little pullout the place you may pause to take footage.
Read More: Red Mary – The Ghost of Leamaneh Castle
Leamaneh Castle: Website
34. Leap Castle (Roscrea)
In County Offaly, Leap Castle is about midway between Roscrea and Birr, and is one among Ireland’s most well-known castles. The location can also be notable for being some of the infamously spooky castles within the nation, with tales of hauntings by the Red Lady strolling the halls holding a dagger. Nevertheless, Leap Castle attracts vacationers from all throughout Ireland and overseas yearly who’re considering studying extra about its haunted historical past and breathtaking pure magnificence.
Read More: Leap Castle
Leap Castle: Website
36. Lismore Castle (Lismore)
Lismore Castle is a Gothic-style fortress positioned in Lismore, County Waterford. It is a picture-perfect fortress that towers over the Blackwater River and is at the moment the Irish house of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire.
The fortress’s gorgeous gardens and gallery are open to the general public from March to October. If you’re trying to enter the fortress itself, nevertheless, you should lease it in its entirety.
Read More: Lismore Castle In Waterford: One Of Ireland’s Most Impressive Castles
Lismore Castle: Website
37. Minard Castle (Kilmurry)
Not to be confused with the Scottish fortress of the identical identify, Minard Castle is positioned magnificently atop a hill overlooking Kilmurry Bay in Dingle. The spoil suffered vital harm from the Cromwellian troops’ 1650 siege, during which no occupant survived. The seaside behind Minard Castle is notable as a result of it’s a storm bay with massive rocks that the surf washed ashore.
While getting close to the fortress is inconceivable as a result of being on personal land, the encompassing seascape and panorama are beautiful and make for a superb wild tenting location.
Read More: Minard Castle
Minard Castle: Website
38. Parkes Castle (Kilmore)
Situated on the shores of the northern seashores of Lough Gill stands Parke’s Castle. This picturesque plantation-era fortress as soon as served because the residence of English plantation proprietor Robert Parke.
A fortress tour will take you to totally different areas of curiosity, which embrace the forge, pigeon tower, and banqueting corridor (typically used for music recitals and workshops.) It is open day by day from 10 AM to six PM from the twenty fourth of March till the twenty sixth of October.
Read More: History Of An Irish Castle – Parke’s Castle In County Leitrim
Parkes Castle: Website
39. The Rock of Cashel (Cashel)
Ireland’s County Tipperary is house to the spectacular fortress generally known as The Rock of Cashel, which towers over the city of Cashel. Its illustrious previous is influenced by native legends, the place it was mentioned to have originated from the Devil’s Bit mountain when St. Patrick banished Satan from a cave. It additionally served because the seat of the kings of Munster in some unspecified time in the future prior to now.
Some notable sights on the rock embrace Cormac’s Chapel, the Cathedral, and a graveyard sporting fairly a number of excessive crosses (don’t miss Scully’s Cross, the biggest of the bunch!.) It opens seasonally from mid March to mid October, so be sure you ebook upfront.
Read More: Rock of Cashel
The Rock of Cashel: Website
40. Tully Castle (Derrygonnelly)
The magnificent fortified fortress generally known as Tully Castle is located on the southern coast of Lower Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, near the group of Blaney.
The fortress is a major historic location with a bloody previous in North Ireland, the place its inhabitants had been massacred and the place burnt down on Christmas Eve in the course of the Irish Rebellion of 1641.
Visitors can take a brief strolling path giving views of the fortress ruins, surrounding panorama, and close by islands. There’s additionally a customer heart housing an interactive exhibition and knowledge board the place folks can study extra concerning the fortress’s historical past.
Read More: Tully Castle
Tully Castle: Website
. . .
In conclusion, the castles of Ireland supply an enchanting glimpse into the nation’s previous. These grandiose buildings had been as soon as the properties of kings and queens, and their story is one among energy, politics, and intrigue. Today, they stand as testomony to the wealthy historical past of this Emerald Isle. Whether you’re visiting Dublin Castle or Kilkenny Castle, be sure you take a while to discover these unimaginable relics of Ireland’s previous.
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