Summary
Irish history is filled with remarkable events and tumultuous periods – spanning from Vikings to the Norman Invasion. This latter event significantly shaped the subsequent centuries for the Irish population under English and later, British, dominion. Substantial evidence of these bygone eras can be observed throughout the country.
Irish castles range from the Medieval period to late 19th-century homes, each possessing its unique charm and intrigue. Some have succumbed to neglect and remain as ruins, while others welcome visitors, and some have been transformed into luxurious 5-star hotels.
Irrespective of their current state, each castle conveys its own narrative, depicting the historical context of its time. The following 15 remarkable Irish castles are distributed across the nation and deserve exploration.
1. Kilkenny Castle
Located merely an hour’s drive from Dublin in the province of Leinster, Kilkenny Castle is one of the most exquisite castles in Ireland. Serving as a symbol of the Norman occupation, its construction commenced in the late 12th century.
The initial castle, likely a wooden structure, was erected by Richard de Clare, 2nd Earl of Pembroke, also recognized as Strongbow. A square-shaped stone castle featuring four towers was completed in 1213, with three of the original towers still standing today.
Much of the current castle structure can be traced back to the early to mid-19th century when it underwent extensive restoration.
Kilkenny Castle significantly enhances the surrounding landscape and showcases how the town has expanded around it. The River Nore flows past the castle, presenting a stunning view, especially when experienced during a boat ride.
2. Ashford Castle
While many aspire to reside in a castle one day, spending a night in one can often seem like the only feasible option. In most instances, that is not possible. The best alternative is to visit, perhaps take a guided tour, and dream about the castle lifestyle. However, Ashford Castle in the North-West of Ireland offers a different experience. It not only functions as a castle but is also one of Ireland’s premier 5-star hotels.
Although a structure has existed since the early 13th century, the building visible today was established in the 18th century, reflecting the design of a 17th-century French chateau. It initially served as a family residence and hunting lodge for the Brown family of the Baron Oranmore and Browne.
Presently, the castle beautifully combines medieval and Victorian architectural styles.
The hotel rooms and suites reflect the noble history of the castle, with interiors that exude regal elegance.
3. Cahir Castle
Situated in South-East Ireland, Cahir Castle is among the largest castles in the nation. Visually, it embodies the archetypal features associated with medieval castles and fortresses – substantial walls, a moat, an impressive keep, and an overall formidable and slightly imposing presence, characteristic of medieval strongholds.
Cahir Castle dates back to the mid-12th century and suffered considerable damage from cannon fire during a three-day siege in 1599. The castle experienced another siege in the 17th century amidst the Irish Confederate Wars.
Notably, Cahir Castle is one of the few castles in Ireland still featuring a functional portcullis.
4. Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle is renowned primarily for the Blarney Stone, also referred to as The Stone of Eloquence. According to legend, kissing the stone while hanging backward grants the gift of eloquence. This attracts several hundred thousand tourists annually. The stone is situated at the highest point of the castle, which is partially in a dilapidated state. Nonetheless, the castle serves as a significant example of Irish medieval architecture.
The keep was constructed in the mid-15th century by the MacCarthy of Muskerry dynasty, although records indicate previous fortifications existed on the site.
Blarney Castle was impacted by the Irish Confederate Wars and was besieged during that era. Over the years, the castle has exchanged owners, and it is currently held by the Colthurst family.
Despite possessing a striking and well-maintained exterior, much of the castle remains in ruins, with only a few rooms and battlements accessible. Visitors are welcome to ascend the spiral staircase and wander through the expansive gardens, which enrich the enchanting atmosphere, incorporating a poison garden filled with various toxic plants.
5. Bunratty Castle
Bunratty Castle is a remarkable and well-preserved square tower located in County Clare in West Ireland. Dating back to 1425, it is recognized as one of the most authentic and complete medieval fortresses remaining in Ireland. Additionally, three other structures were established on or around the same site, including an early Viking settlement, prior to the construction of the current castle by the MacNamara family.
This castle, too, was impacted by the Irish Confederate Wars, holding an essential strategic position that controlled waterways leading to Limerick. After a prolonged siege, the Confederates captured the castle.
In the mid-20th century, the 7th Viscount Gort oversaw the restoration of the castle, successfully preventing it from deteriorating further. Bunratty Castle is open for visitors, showcasing interiors filled with 15th and 16th-century art, furnishings, and tapestries.
6. Malahide Castle
Situated on the outskirts of Dublin, only a half-hour train ride away, Malahide Castle has its oldest components dating back to the 12th century. The structure has evolved since its inception; expansion efforts were made during the 15th century when King Edward IV reigned. Subsequent tower additions were completed between the early to mid-17th century. The Talbot family, which has a significant and notable history, built the castle.
Four reception rooms and bedrooms are accessible to the public. The interiors are adorned with period furniture and paintings, offering a glimpse into historical times.
Previously, Malahide Castle was encircled by a moat, outer wall, drawbridge, portcullis, and a barbican.
7. The Rock of Cashel
Despite its dilapidated condition, The Rock of Cashel is one of those castles that leaves an indelible impression when seen in person. Situated in County Tipperary, it presents a primary focal point in the surrounding landscape, perched on a hill that overlooks its backdrop.
Its oldest and tallest part, the round tower, reaches 28 meters and dates back to approximately 1100. This tower was initially built using the dry stone technique, resulting in a construction entirely composed of stones, without any binding agent like mortar. Presently, some sections have been filled with mortar for safety.
The visually stunning Cormac’s Chapel, characterized by its vaulted ceilings and wide arches, is among the most beautiful structures within the complex.
Surrounding the castle is an extensive graveyard, with the entire complex enclosed by walls.
8. Donegal Castle
Exhibiting a distinctive charm that sets it apart from typical castles, Donegal Castle resembles a traditional late-Medieval/Jacobean country home. Located in Donegal Town within Ulster, the castle faced nearly two centuries of decline before undergoing near-complete restoration approximately 30 years ago.
The castle showcases an impressive rectangular keep from the 15th century, with a Jacobean-style wing added later. Situated near the River Eske, Donegal Castle is enclosed by a boundary wall constructed in the 17th century. Local sandstone and limestone were utilized in its construction.
9. Lismore Castle
Lismore Castle in Southern Ireland serves as the residence of the Duke of Devonshire. Originally owned by the Earls of Desmond, it has belonged to the Cavendish family since the mid-18th century. The castle epitomizes the grandeur of a royal residence, featuring numerous turrets, towers, and a spacious inner courtyard that overlooks the River Blackwater.
Although the castle remains primarily a private residence for much of the year, it can accommodate up to 27 guests for hire, providing an unparalleled fairytale setting for those fortunate enough to experience it.
10. Dublin Castle
Elegantly situated at the heart of Dublin, juxtaposed against modern architecture, Dublin Castle is currently home to a significant portion of the Irish government. Historically, it has functioned under various governing institutions – transitioning from British to Irish authority. In 1921, it was ceremonially transferred to the Provisional Government of Ireland following the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty.
Although the site has hosted a castle since King John’s time, the current structure dates back to the 18th century. Initially constructed as a fortification in the Norman city of Dublin, it gradually evolved into an official residence.
After suffering substantial fire damage in the late 17th century, the castle was reconstructed, transitioning from a medieval fort to a Georgian palace. There are no remaining medieval elements above ground level in the castle today.
11. Dromoland Castle
Dromoland Castle, like Ashford Castle, currently serves as a 5-star luxury hotel. The existing structure was built in the mid-19th century, though a previous tower house existed on the premises since approximately the 15th or early 16th century. The castle features a neo-gothic architectural style.
This baronial-style castle has largely retained its mid-19th-century appearance, with minimal alterations. The western side of the castle overlooks a tranquil lake, creating a landscape reminiscent of a fairytale. Extensive walled gardens are present on the south side, surrounded by expansive woodlands, making Dromoland Castle a remarkable gateway to the majestic past and a tranquil escape from daily life.
12. King John’s Castle
Visiting South-West Ireland, King John’s Castle in Limerick is an essential destination. This remarkable location is not only a stunning illustration of medieval architecture, but it also ranks as one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Europe, with its towers, walls, and fortifications enduring through time. Positioned on King’s Island alongside the River Shannon, the castle occupies a historically significant strategic setting that continues to resonate.
Commissioned by King John in the early 13th century, the castle stands on a site previously inhabited by Vikings since 922.
Constructed in a strategically advantageous position, the castle aimed to oversee and control any potential Norman rebellions to the east and south.
During the 1642 Siege of Limerick, the castle sustained damage to its walls and, like many other Irish castles, was influenced by the Irish Confederate Wars.
This captivating structure features impressive round and barrel towers, along with four curtain walls; however, it lacks a square keep.
13. Birr Castle
Located in Central Ireland in County Offaly, Birr Castle is the home of The 7th Earl of Rosse. A castle has graced these grounds since the Anglo-Norman period; however, several modifications over the centuries have resulted in little retention of the original structures. Nevertheless, Birr Castle remains an exemplary representation of Irish castles.
While the castle is partially accessible to the public due to its residence status, the gardens and surrounding park are open for exploration.
In the early 17th century, the initial castle fell into disrepair, it was granted to the Parsons family, who subsequently added two flanking towers on either side of the Norman gate tower to enhance the building’s livability. Birr Castle experienced two sieges during the Irish Confederate Wars.
14. Ross Castle
Ross Castle is situated in an environment that seems untouched by time. Surrounded by expansive, pristine landscapes in Southern Ireland, viewing the castle from a distance evokes the feeling of being transported back to the Medieval era. Commanding a view of Lough Leane and Killarney National Park, this 15th-century tower house exudes tranquility despite its imposing stature.
Originally, Ross Castle served as the ancestral home of the O’Donoghue clan until the late 16th century, when it changed hands to the MacCarthy Mór.
The castle is designed in the traditional medieval stronghold style – a tower house with square bartizans and thick walls. The lower-level windows are narrow, enabling residents to defend against potential threats by shooting arrows, while preventing access from unwanted visitors. Furthermore, the spiral staircase was constructed to advantage defenders, as anyone ascending would have their swords on the interior side, putting them at a significant disadvantage.
15. Doonagore Castle
Although little remains of the original castle aside from a circular tower house, it offers an extraordinary view near the shores of the North Atlantic Ocean. This round tower house dates back to the 16th century, and a small walled enclosure is still intact.
A castle was constructed at this site around the 14th century; the 16th-century tower house, unlike many regional counterparts which were built from limestone, was constructed using sandstone native to the surrounding area.
An intriguing chapter in the castle’s history unfolded in the late 16th century when a ship from the Spanish Armada wrecked nearby. Following the incident, the survivors were executed at the castle.
Since the 1970s, the castle has been owned by a private Irish-American individual, and consequently, it is not accessible to the public.
