Castles
Travel Guide

Castles in Ireland

Vue aérienne du Dunluce Castle - © kilhan
Tourist attractions Irish Restaurants and Pubs Partner Accommodations Campgrounds and Lodging

Castles : Must-See Attractions

Duckett's Grove - © MNStudio

Duckett’s Grove

Duckett's Grove is a ruined Irish castle. Magnificent, it is a silent witness to Irish history, imbued with mystery and charm.
3.79/5 (1,952 votes)
Vue aérienne du Dunluce Castle - © kilhan

Dunluce Castle

Built on the edge of cliffs, Dunluce Castle and its ruins seem ready to fall into the void, one of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful tourist sites!
3.45/5 (1,233 votes)
Le Malahide castle - © Jenifoto

Malahide Castle

Located in Malahide Park, it is loved for its architecture and cosy rooms.
2.99/5 (863 votes)
La Coolbawn House - Mike Searle - cc

The Coolbawn House

Coolbawn House is a former Tudor manor house in County Wexford, Ireland. Now in ruins, the site is said to be haunted and attracts fans of the paranormal!
4.07/5 (855 votes)
Le Dunguaire Castle de Kinvara - Bernd Thaller - cc

Dunguaire Castle

You will think you are in Scotland with this castle! Built on the shores of Galway Bay, it offers an authentic and captivating spectacle! The chance to enjoy a real banquet on site!
3.12/5 (824 votes)

Castles

What would Ireland be without its mythical castles, bearers of indescribable charm? Whether intact or in ruins, they are all steeped in mystery and history… Seats, battles, coronations, turf wars – discover what lies behind these timeworn buildings. Find out more about them here!

Castles in Ireland

More than 3,000 Irish castles scattered all over the country!

Castles have a special place in Irish history… Remains of great historical value, they alone evoke the many centuries of conflict with the Kingdom of England. Whatever their condition, they all have their own charm and history. Seats, battles, victories, defeats… The episodes are many and exciting! They’ll reveal the country’s medieval past in all its splendor, between Anglo-Irish conflict, clan warfare and bitter power struggles…

Not to mention the architectural beauty: Ireland’s castles are home to many wonders! It has to be said that the country has benefited from multiple influences in the construction of its castles. The Viking and Anglo-Norman presence gradually shaped the architecture of several thousand forts.

There are over 3,000 castles throughout Ireland (including Northern Ireland). Most of them are available free of charge. For the others, a guide will be happy to show you the sites from every angle! (All for between €5 and €15 maximum). Take care when exploring them from the inside: some ruined castles are impassable and even dangerous! We advise you to admire them from a distance and not to venture out: your safety is paramount, as is the protection of Ireland’s historic heritage!

Note that some buildings may also be located on private property. Don’t hesitate to consult our guide before venturing out!