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Ireland, a land rich in myth and legends, boasts a remarkable collection of castles that transport visitors back in time. Steeped in history, these majestic structures stand as testaments to a bygone era, each with its unique tale.
From Kilkenny Castle, with its majestic turrets and sprawling gardens, to the captivating Blarney Castle, where kissing the famous stone is said to grant eloquence, the Irish castles offer a captivating glimpse into the past. Further, the rugged beauty of Donegal Castle reveals a peek at medieval Ireland, with its towering keep and striking architecture.
What better way to experience rich history and stunning scenery than visiting some of its 30,000 magnificent castles? Here’s a guide to Ireland's 20 most beautiful castles that’ll give you a taste of history. Read on to learn more!
Quick Overview Of The Most Spectacular Castles in Ireland
Kilkenny Castle
Ross Castle
Malahide Castle
Blarney Castle
Dublin Castle
Bunratty Castle
King John’s Castle
Ashford Castle
Trim Castle
Cahir Castle
Donegal Castle
Dromoland Castle
Birr Castle Demesne
Dunguaire Castle
Leap Castle
Doe Castle
Lismore Castle
Kylemore Castle
Minard Castle
Blackrock Castle
Fun Facts About Castles in Ireland
With a history that is steeped in betrayal and murder, Leap Castle is often regarded as the “world’s most haunted castle”
Several Irish castles were damaged or destroyed during the Irish Revolutionary period from 1919 to 1923.
Dunluce Castle is believed to have inspired C.S Lewis's children's fantasy, Chronicles of Narnia.
Legend has it that if a person stands at the front gate of the Dunguaire Castle and asks a question, it’ll be answered by the end of the day.
It's estimated that there are around 30,000 castles in Ireland.
Most Irish castles were constructed under the Norman occupation.
Built in the early 19th century, Adare Manor is Ireland's youngest castle.
Built in 1195 for the powerful Butler family to control a fording point of the River Nore, the legendary Kilkenny Castle is one of Ireland's best places to visit. The fortress boasts a grand library, drawing room, Victorian Nursery, and 19th-century Picture Gallery showcasing the Butler family's art collection. Also, Kilkenny Castle is beautifully surrounded by 50 acres of rolling parkland dotted with mature trees, a rose garden, and abundant wildlife.
The castle is located in Kilkenny, the “Medieval Capital of Ireland.” After touring the fortress, explore the city’s beautiful cobbled streets on foot.
Address: The Parade, Collegepark, Kilkenny, R95 YRK1, Ireland
Getting There
By Air: The closest major airports for arriving by air are Dublin, Cork, and Shannon.
By Car:
From Dublin: Take the M7 or M9 motorway southbound (signposted for Waterford). Continue on the M9 until you reach Kilkenny.
From Cork: Take the M8 motorway northbound. Follow the signs for Kilkenny.
From Limerick: Take the M7 motorway eastbound. Join the M8 northbound towards Dublin. Follow the signs for Kilkenny.
By Bus: From Dublin, buses depart from Dublin's Busáras station. The journey takes around 2 hours.
Ross Castle is located on the edge of Lough Leane amidst the serene beauty of Killarney National Park. This stunning fortress was built in the 15th century by the Irish chieftain O’Donoghue Mór, who is said to still inhabit the waters of the lake.
Visitors can explore the castle’s well-preserved interiors, which feature authentic furnishings and atmospheric chambers. The castle’s location, surrounded by green rolling hills, provides a picturesque setting for a nature walk.
Address: Ross Rd, Ross Island, Killarney, Co. Kerry, V93 V304, Ireland
Getting There
By Car:
From Killarney: Tow Ross Castle is approximately a 5-minute drive from the center of Killarney. Head southwest on N71/Tralee Road toward Ross Road. Follow signs for Ross Castle, and you'll reach your destination.
From Cork: Take the N22 from Cork towards Killarney. Follow signs for N71/Tralee Road and Ross Castle in Killarney.
From Limerick: Take the N21 from Limerick toward Killarney. Follow signs for N71/Tralee Road and Ross Castle in Killarney.
Malahide Castle
Situated just a stone’s throw away from Dublin, Malahide Castle is a remarkable fortress dating back to the 12th century. It was initially constructed by the Talbot family, an important diplomatic family that sought to establish a stronghold in the area.
Over the years, the castle has evolved, blending various architectural styles and additions to create a visually stunning structure. However, the castle's interiors are adorned with a rich collection of period furniture, oak paneling, vintage Victorian toys, and stunning artwork.
Are you looking for somewhere to have a picnic? The idyllic gardens surrounding the garden are home to 5,000 plant varieties, making it the perfect place for a picnic.
Address: Back Rd, Broomfield, Dublin, Ireland
Getting There
By Air: Malahide is conveniently located for those flying into Dublin Airport.
By Bus: Take a bus from Dublin, Bus services, such as the 32, 42, or 102, operate from various points in the city to Malahide.
By Car: From Dublin City Center, head north on the M1 motorway towards Malahide. Take the Malahide exit and follow the signs to Malahide Castle.
An enthusiastic traveler, Lynne says, "Our visit to the gardens and castle today was wonderful. Our guide, Mark, gave a very interesting and informative 45-minute guided tour of the Castle. Even though some rooms were renovated, we were granted restricted access to observe the work. There is no doubt that we will return later in the year to witness the outcome. The grounds and gardens are impressive. We heartily urge you to stop by."
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle is a fascinating place steeped in legend and mystique. Located in the countryside of County Cork, this medieval castle was built over six centuries ago by Cormac MacCarthy to protect the area against invaders.
The castle’s most popular highlight is the famous Blarney Stone. Legend says that those who kiss this block of Carboniferous limestone will be bestowed the gift of eloquence. In addition, Blarney Castle’s lush gardens, spanning over 60 acres, are also a must-see. They’re filled with natural rock formations and several poisonous plants such as wolfsbane, mandrake, ricin, and opium.
Address: Monacnapa, Blarney, Co. Cork, Ireland
Getting There
By Car:
From Cork City: Head west on the N20 towards Blarney. Follow the signs for Blarney Castle.
From Dublin: Take the M8 motorway southbound. Follow signs for Cork and then Blarney.
By Bus:
From Cork City: Take the Bus Éireann operates regular services from Cork Bus Station to Blarney.
From Dublin: Take the Bus Éireann also offers services from Dublin to Blarney.
Dublin Castle
Located in the heart of Dublin, Dublin Castle encapsulates centuries of Irish heritage. In the 13th century, King John of England constructed a fortress on a Viking settlement to assert English power and control over the Irish capital.
Visitors to the Dublin Castle can see the fortress’ commanding Medieval Tower, one of the oldest parts of Dublin to survive today. It’s also possible to tour the castle’s majestic state apartments, adorned with lavish decorations and ornate furnishing.
Address: Dame St, Dublin 2, Ireland
Getting There
By Car: Dublin Castle is centrally located from Dublin City Center, and you can drive directly to it.
By bus: Dublin Castle is located in the heart of the city. Nearby Dame Street, Lord Edward Street, and George's Street are the stops for numerous bus routes, such as the 9, 13, 15, 16, 27, 40, 49, 54a, 56a, 68, 77a, 122, 123, 140, 150, and 151.
Bunratty Castle
Bunratty Castle stands in a history-filled area that served as a Viking trading camp in 970. The MacNamara family built the present structure in 1425, but by 1475, it became the stronghold of the O'Briens, the largest clan in North Munster.
Today, visitors can step back in time as they explore the castle’s restored interiors, which furniture, tapestries, and works of art dating to around the 1600s. Furthermore, one of the highlights of a visit to Bunratty Castle is the chance to see the Bunratty Folk Park.
Located adjacent to the castle grounds, this open-air museum is set on 26 acres of unspoiled countryside and boasts over 30 buildings that recreate a 19th-century Irish village.
From Shannon Airport: Bunratty Castle is approximately a 15-minute drive from Shannon Airport. Follow signs for the N18 towards Limerick and take the exit for Bunratty.
From Limerick: Bunratty is about a 20-minute drive from Limerick. Take the N18 towards Shannon and follow the signs for Bunratty.
From Ennis: If you're coming from Ennis, take the N18 southbound towards Limerick. Follow signs for Bunratty.
By Bus:
From Limerick: Take theBus Éireann operates services to Bunratty from Limerick Bus Station.
From Ennis: Take theBus Éireann also connects Ennis to Bunratty.
King John's Castle
King John’s Castle is a commanding fortress perched on the banks of the River Shannon on King’s Island in Limerick. In the 13th century, King John constructed the city to safeguard it from Gaelic invasions and Norman lords' rebellions.
The fortress is one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Europe. While visiting it, you’ll see the battlements, towers, and courtyards that have stood the test of time. Moreover, the castle boasts a magnificent Great Hall, where royal banquets were held, and towers with breathtaking views of Limerick's skyline.
Address: Nicholas St, Limerick, Ireland
Getting There
By Car: From Dublin, take the M7 motorway southbound towards Limerick. Follow signs for Limerick City Centre. King John's Castle is located on King's Island, accessible via Thomond Bridge.
By Bus: From Dublin, take the Bus. Éireann operates services from Dublin to Limerick. Alight at Limerick Bus Station and take local transportation or walk to King John's Castle.
By Train: From Dublin, take a train to Limerick Colbert Station.
Ashford Castle
Tucked away in the picturesque countryside of County Mayo, Ashford Castle stands as a luxurious retreat with a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. The castle stands on a spectacular 350-acre estate and was originally built as a defensive stronghold for the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family. It has since been transformed into a stunning five-star hotel that effortlessly hosted countless notables over the years, including The Prince of Wales (who later became King George V) and President Ronald Reagan.
Visitors to Ashford Castle can explore the estate’s opulent interiors, adorned with elegant furnishings, intricate tapestries, and ornate chandeliers. The castle’s grandeur is further enhanced by its breathtaking surroundings, with manicured gardens, serene woodlands, and the shimmering Lough Corrib stretching as far as the eye can see.
Address: Ashford Castle Dr, Leaf Island, Cong, Co. Mayo, Ireland
Getting There
By Car:
From Galway: Take the N84 and follow signs for Ashford Castle in Cong.
From Dublin: Take the M4 and then the M6 towards Galway. Follow signs for the N84 to reach Cong.
By Train: Galway is the nearest central train station. From Galway, you can take a taxi or bus to Cong.
By Bus: Bus Éireann operates services from Galway to Cong.
Trim Castle
Built by Hugh de Lacy and his successors in the course of 30 years, the beautiful Trim Castle is the largest Anglo-Norman fortification in Ireland. Located on the south bank of the River Boyne, the castle has an area of 30,000 m2 and encompasses a monumental three-story keep.
Visitors can view the interior of the 20-sided keep-through walkways, showcasing the size and thickness of the castle walls. Film enthusiasts may recognize Trim Castle from its appearance in the movie “Braveheart,” adding an extra touch of intrigue and cinematic charm to the site.
Address: Trim, Co. Meath, Ireland
Getting There
By Car: From Dublin, take the M3 motorway and follow the signs for Trim.
By Bus: From Dublin, take the Bus. Éireann operates services from Dublin to Trim.
By Train: From Dublin, the closest train station is Dunboyne or M3 Parkway.
Cahir Castle is one of Ireland’s largest and best-preserved castles. Nestled on a rocky island on the River Suir, the castle was built in the 13th century by the powerful Butler family as a strategic fortification.
Today, visitors can step into the past as they explore its formidable stone walls, defensive towers, and majestic courtyards. Nevertheless, the castle’s interiors are beautifully preserved, offering a glimpse into medieval life through the display of period furniture, intricate tapestries, and ornate fireplaces.
One of the highlights of a visit to Cahir Castle is the opportunity to climb to the top of its tower.
Panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the picturesque River Suir will unfold before your eyes and leave you in awe.
From Dublin: Cahir is approximately a 2-hour drive from Dublin. Take the M7 motorway towards Limerick and then the M8 towards Cork.
From Cork: Take the M8 motorway towards Dublin and then follow signs for Cahir. Then follow M8 to R639 in South Tipperary. Take exit 11 from M8 (64.7 km), continue on R639, and drive to Bridge St/R640.
By Bus:
From Dublin: Bus Éireann operates services from Dublin to Cahir.
From Cork: Bus Éireann also provides connections from Cork to Cahir.
Donegal Castle
Photo Credit: Rob Crandall/Shutterstock
Donegal Castle was built by Red Hugh O’Donnell, his personal fortress in the 15th century. Rising over the River Eske, in the heart of Donegal Town, the castle served as the of the O’Donnell clan during the Gaelic chieftain era. The fortress fell into ruin in the 20th century but was restored to its former glory in the 1990s.
Inside, you'll discover beautifully restored interiors with intricate stone carvings, ornate fireplaces, and a magnificent banquet hall adorned with tapestries and artifacts. Furthermore, outside, the scenic grounds invite you to take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank and admire the castle’s picturesque setting.
Address: Saint Helenes, Castle St, Milltown, Donegal, Ireland
Getting There
By Car:
From Dublin: Take the N2 or M3 towards Cavan, and then follow the signs for Donegal.
From Belfast: Take the M1 towards Enniskillen, and then follow the signs for Donegal.
By Bus:
From Dublin: Take the bus. Éireann operates services from Dublin to Donegal.
From Belfast: Take the bus. Éireann also provides connections from Belfast to Donegal.
Dromoland Castle
Dromoland Castle is one of the most famous Baronial castles in Ireland. Nestled amidst the lush countryside of County Clare, it was the ancestral home of the O’Brien clan, descendants of the High Kings of Ireland. Built in the 16th century, the castle was bought by United States citizen Bernard P. McDonough in 1962 and converted for use as a luxury hotel.
Visitors can take a historical walking tour of Dromoland with historian Dr Jane O’Brien, who is a member of the castle’s ancestral O’Brien lineage. Discover Dromoland Castle, a magnificent example of noble heritage renowned for its ornate halls, magnificent drawing rooms, and cozy libraries.
The castle’s manicured gardens and pristine grounds provide a serene setting for leisurely walks or relaxing moments amidst nature’s beauty.
Address: Dromoland, Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare, V95 ATD3, Ireland
Getting There
By Air: Shannon Airport is the closest major airport if you arrive by air.
By Car: From Limerick take the N18 towards Shannon, then follow signs for Newmarket on Fergus.
By Bus: From Limerick, take the 343, which is an hourly bus srvice that departs from The Strand Hotel Limerick and will drop you to the bus stop right outside the front gate of the Castle.
Birr Castle Demesne
Nestled in the charming town of Birr, it was built by the Parsons family in the 17th century, and remains their ancestral home to this day. As you step onto the castle’s grounds, you’ll immerse yourself in enchantment.
Birr's award-winning gardens, home to the Great Telescope, showcase rare trees and flowers. The castle offers glimpses into its inhabitants' lives with elegant interiors and artwork. In addition, one of the highlights of a visit to Birr Castle is the opportunity to explore the Science Centre, which showcases the castle’s rich scientific legacy.
From astronomy to botany, visitors can delve into the innovative discoveries made by the Parsons family, who were pioneers in various fields of science.
Address: Townparks, Birr, Co. Offaly, Ireland
Getting There
By Car:
From Dublin: Depending on the current traffic, you can choose between the M7/N62 and M4/M6/N52 routes.
From Galway: Take the M6 motorway towards Dublin, then follow signs for Birr.
From Limerick: Take the M7 northeast and then turn onto N52.
By Bus:
From Dublin: Bus Éireann operates services from Dublin to Birr. Likewise, Kearns Bus makes daily trips from Dublin to Birr.
From Galway: Bus Éireann also provides connections from Galway to Birr.
By Train: From Dublin or Galway, the nearest train station is in Tullamore. From Tullamore, you can take a bus or taxi to Birr.
Dunguaire Castle
Dunguaire Castle is as a picturesque medieval stronghold that takes you back in time. Perched majestically on the shores of Galway Bay in the charming village of Kinvara, this castle dates back to the 16th century. The Hynes clan built Dunguaire Castle as a defensive fortress and symbol of their power and authority.
In 1924, Dunguaire was bought and repaired by surgeon Oliver St. John Gogarty, a famous literary figure. The castle served as a meeting place for literary revivalists like W.B. Yeats, Lady Gregory, George Bernard Shaw, Edward Martin, and J.M. Synge.
From April to October, Dunguaire Castle hosts its famous banquet. Visitors can enjoy a four-course dinner on the majestic shores of Galway Bay while taking in the essence of Ireland’s medieval heritage.
By Car: From Galway, take the N18 south towards Clarinbridge, then follow signs for Kinvara.
By Bus: From Galway, bus Éireann operates services from Galway to Kinvara.
Leap Castle
Leap Castle is considered the world’s most haunted Castle, a hauntingly beautiful testament to Ireland’s turbulent history and enduring legends. The castle is tucked away in the mystical landscape of County Offaly, the castle, and is believed to have been built in the 15th century by the O’Bannon clan.
Leap Castle has witnessed gruesome events and brutal atrocities throughout the years and has been visited several by paranormal investigators. The claims of paranormal activity include the existence of several ghosts, such as the Red Lady and an “elemental spirit” associated with Mildred Darby. One of the highlights of a visit to Leap Castle is the famous “Bloody Chapel,” which is said to be haunted by a priest’s spirit.
Address: R421, Leap, Roscrea, Co. Offaly, Ireland
Getting There
By Car: From Dublin, take the M7 motorway towards Limerick, then follow signs for the R421 towards Roscrea.
By Bus: From Dublin Bus Éireann operates services from Dublin to Roscrea.
Doe Castle
Located on the rugged coastline of County Donegal, Doe Castle stands as a timeless fortress with a rich history and breathtaking views. The fortress was built in the 1420s, and for almost 200 years, it served as home for several MacSweeney chiefs.
Today, visitors can explore the castle’s ruins and immerse themselves in the echoes of its past. The carved and ornamented MacSweeney grave slab, dating from 1544, is on display inside the tower house. Panels onsite chronicle the castle’s history in fascinating detail.
However, the castle's prime feature is its stunning location, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean's dramatic coastline.
Address: Castledoe, Co. Donegal, Ireland
Getting There
By Car: From Letterkenny, take the N56 north towards Dunfanaghy, then follow signs for Doe Castle.
By Bus: From Letterkenny, take Bus Éireann, which operates services from Letterkenny to Creeslough.
Lismore Castle
Lismore Castle is the Irish home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire and their family. Located in the town of Lismore and dating back to the 12th century, the castle belonged to the Earls of Desmond and subsequently to the Cavendish family from 1753.
The castle is currently an exclusive-use residence, now available to rent in its entirety only. Throughout the years, this beautiful property has welcomed guests from Fred Astaire and Lucian Freud to John F. Kennedy. Visitors can explore the property’s idyllic gardens, which cover 10 acres and are one of the oldest in Ireland.
From Dublin: Take the M7 motorway towards Waterford, then follow signs for Lismore.
From Cork: Follow N8 and M8 to Cork Rd/R639 in Cork. Take exit 15 from M8, then follow signs for Lismore.
By Bus: From Dublin, you can take a bus to Lismore Castle via Waterford Bus Stn, Davitts Quay, and West Street.
Kylemore Castle
Nestled in the picturesque Connemara region, the Kyllemore Castle was built in the late 19th century as a private residence for Mitchell Henry and his wife, Margaret. This lavish 40,000 ft2 castle took 100 men four years to complete and initially had more than 70 rooms and a 142-foot wide granite facade.
Today, Kylemore Castle is home to a Benedictine community of nuns who established a school and have preserved the estate for over a century. The castle features 33 bedrooms, four sitting rooms, and several other rooms. The highlights of a visit to Kylemore Castle include strolling through the enchanting gardens dotted with vibrant flowers, serene lakeside paths, and a charming Gothic church.
From Galway: Take the N59 towards Clifden, then follow signs for Kylemore Abbey.
From Westport: Take the N59 towards Clifden, then follow signs for Kylemore Abbey.
By Bus:
From Galway: Bus Éireann operates services from Galway to Clifden.
From Westport: Bus Éireann also provides connections from Westport to Clifden.
Lara, a travel lover, advises, " This was my favorite experience throughout our journey! The view alone made the drive from Gallway worthwhile, but the abbey itself has a mystical quality. Though we could have stayed longer, we only had three hours here! The castle's décor was exquisite, the grounds were breathtaking, and the guides were kind. After taking a stroll through the grounds, we were treated to a concert in the church. It was enjoyable to browse the stores filled with homemade things. This was a visit that we truly enjoyed!"
Minard Castle
Tucked away along the rugged coastline of the Dingle Peninsula, Minard Castle is a picturesque ruined fortress that dates back to the 16th century. Visitors can explore the castle’s ruins, which sit on a hill overlooking a tiny bay with views across the Irish Sea to the Iveragh Peninsula.
As you wander through its grounds, you’ll also discover traces of the castle’s surrounding defensive structures, adding to its historical allure. Minard Castle encapsulates Ireland's west coast's rugged beauty and rich heritage. It offers visitors a chance to step back in time and immerse themselves in the dramatic landscapes that have shaped its history.
Address: Kilmurry, Co. Kerry, Ireland
Getting There
By Car:
From Tralee: Take the N86 towards Dingle, then follow signs for Lispole and Minard Castle.
From Dingle: Take the N86 towards Tralee, then follow signs for Lispole and Minard Castle.
Blackrock Castle
Built in the 16th century on the banks of the River Lee, Blackrock Castle is the oldest surviving structure still in use in the city of Cork. The castle was erected to Castle protect the city of Cork from potential invaders. The space, which has been repurposed and renovated over centuries, is a distinctive hub where science, technology, and heritage intersect.
Blackrock Castle is home to an observatory that houses an interactive astronomy center open to the public. The observatory has a state-of-the-art telescope, allowing visitors to gaze at the night sky and learn about celestial objects. Another highlight of a visit to Blackrock Castle is the panoramic views of Cork City and the River Lee from the castle’s tower.
Address: Castle Rd, Blackrock, Cork, Ireland
Getting There
By Car: Drive along Victoria Rd, Blackrock Rd, and Castle Rd from Cork City Center.
By Bus: From Cork City Center, bus routes 202A, 202, 2012, and 215 travel to Blackrock from Cork's city center.
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