Summary
When visiting Ireland to Kiss the Blarney Stone, it’s a rite of passage. It took us four visits to Ireland to finally make it to Blarney Castle, located just outside of Ireland’s second-largest city, Cork. However, our excitement peaked as we finally were able to kiss the Blarney Stone!
We had longed to kiss the Blarney Stone, yet itineraries and schedules always prevented us from making that detour to seek out the gift of the gab. This past trip to the Emerald Isle ensured that we wouldn’t miss out on this iconic experience.
Kissing the Blarney Stone
Upon our arrival at Blarney Castle, we anticipated a quick kiss and moving along; however, there is much more to explore at Blarney Castle. Therefore, it is advisable to allow yourself several hours to wander the beautiful grounds.
Blarney Castle History
Blarney Castle is one of those enchanting sites that captivates visitors upon entry. Throughout our travels, we have encountered many castles, yet Blarney possesses a unique charm. You can genuinely feel the magic as you take in the stunning views spread over 60 acres of picturesque parkland.
Originally built six centuries ago, Blarney Castle remains family-owned and well-maintained. Constructed in 1446, this third castle on the site was established by Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster, and it continues to be cared for by his descendants who inhabit the grounds today.
How the Blarney Stone Came to Be
The Blarney Stone originated when Robert the Bruce of Scotland (known from Braveheart) achieved a legendary victory over Edward II of England at Bannockburn. The MacCarthys lent 5,000 infantry to support him, and as a reward, Bruce gifted them a piece of the Stone of Destiny, the very stone upon which Scottish kings were crowned.
The Irish are masterful storytellers, and numerous legends circulate regarding the origins of the Blarney Stone. My favorite story is the one of Robert the Bruce, and our guide mentioned that another half of the stone resides somewhere in London, safeguarded beneath glass. Planning a trip to Scotland as well?
What it’s like to Kiss the Blarney Stone?
But how did the Blarney Stone transform into the object of such affection? The tale of kissing the Blarney Stone began with a man who cleverly evaded the Queen’s requests to relinquish his land.
The Lord of Blarney – Cormac Teige McCarthy received numerous demands from the Queen of England to sign over his lands. He had the notorious gift of gab, flitting around the issue with elaborate letters and lavish flattery, promising fealty to the queen.
Eventually, the Queen saw through his tactics and exclaimed, “He’s just giving me more of his blarney!” Consequently, this led to the Blarney Stone’s legendary status.
Dave and Deb Kissing the Blarney Stone
If you embark on the pilgrimage to kiss the Blarney Stone, you will supposedly receive the gift of eloquence (the Gift of the Gab) enabling you to talk your way out of any situation, just like The Lord of Blarney, Cormac Teige McCarthy.
Both Dave and I kissed the stone, leading us to wonder who will prevail in our next discussion!
Do People Pee on the Blarney Stone?
Contrary to popular belief, locals do not urinate on the Blarney Stone. Upon sharing our plans to kiss the stone, several locals expressed reluctance, citing fears of contamination. Therefore, we endeavored to uncover the truth behind this controversy.
First and foremost, visiting the Blarney Stone requires an entry fee, as the castle is privately owned. Visitors must ascend 114 steps to reach the stone.
During operating hours, two attendants assist guests at the Blarney Stone. One person ensures the safety of those leaning back to kiss the stone, while the other captures photographs. Importantly, when Blarney Castle is closed, no one can enter the premises.
Myth of Peeing on the Blarney Stone
After discussing this myth with our guide, he explained that locals often teased tourists at the pub, claiming knowledge of defilements on the stone. They would respond, “Oh yeah, well, you know what I did on the stone last night?”
This is how the legend began, and we quickly moved on to more interesting subjects.
The Blarney Castle and Gardens
While at Blarney Castle, make sure to dedicate at least an afternoon to touring the gardens. You can explore a poison garden, rich with historically significant plants like Mandrake, Ricin, Wolfsbane, and Opium, harking back to an era when such plants were used for medicinal purposes.
Being a fan of films and TV shows, I cannot help but envision a darker past, where royal households faced treachery from those closest to them. Or perhaps, I’ve simply indulged too much in Game of Thrones.
The Witch of Blarney Castle
The McCarthy family was rumored to have a witch living on their lands who advised them regarding the Blarney Stone’s powers. Visitors can leave a coin behind, asking her for a favor. Thankfully, she’s said to emerge only at night when grounds are closed. However, you can tour her kitchen, which once served as the site for the preparations of a renowned chef’s porridge, or witness the sacrificial stone located at the path’s summit.
Cork is an excellent stop when exploring the Wild Atlantic Way. Discover all there is to see and do!
Wishing Steps
If you possess the courage to walk down the wishing steps backward, with your eyes shut and your mind solely on your wish, it is believed that it will come true within a year! While strolling through the Fairy Glade, be on alert for any playful fairies.
After telling Dave we could easily spend an entire day on the castle grounds, I overheard a group of young American men expressing the same sentiment. Blarney Castle serves as a welcoming attraction for all ages. Millions may flock to kiss the Blarney Stone, yet it’s the gardens and the expansive grounds that make the experience truly remarkable.
When to Visit Blarney Castle without the Crowds
We explored Blarney Castle in February and encountered very few others. On the contrary, summer visits are rumored to present painfully long lines. We ascended the narrow stairs of Blarney Castle directly to the top without any waiting, securing a moment to kiss the stone.
Visiting during the off-season allows you the opportunity to enjoy the stone all to yourself, offering ample time to wander the paths, absorbing the magic and mystery of Cork’s Blarney Castle.
Blarney Castle Fast Facts
- It’s 128 narrow steps to ascend for a chance to kiss the Blarney Stone. Along the route, multiple stops with informational displays enhance your visit.
- Even Winston Churchill had a turn kissing the Blarney Stone!
- Entry to the castle grounds costs €13, granting access to the gardens and the castle itself.
- Blarney Castle is open year-round.
- It is situated 8 km from Cork and takes approximately 3-4 hours to drive from Dublin.
- Remember to carry a Euro or two for the attendant assisting with your kiss!
- This person ensures your safety during the experience.
- Be prepared to lean back to reach the Blarney Stone, as you will be quite high up; those afraid of heights should take caution.
- For more details on tickets and operating hours, refer to the Blarney Castle Website.
