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

Castles

Carlow Castle

Carlow Castle is a 13th-century Anglo-Norman fortified castle in Carlow town center. Situated close to the Burren and Barrow rivers, all that…

Castles

Drimnagh Castle

Drimnagh Castle is an Anglo-Norman castle in the small town of Drimnagh, a suburb of Dublin. It is the only Irish castle…

Castles

Ferns Castle

Ferns Castle is a superb 13th-century ruined Irish castle. Although only a few sections of the walls remain, the castle is a…

Castles

Dungarvan Castle

Discover Dungarvan Castle, a 12th-century fortified castle with a wall and a keep, very different from other Irish castles in that its…

Castles

The Foulksrath Castle

Typically Anglo-Norman, Foulksrath Castle dates back to the 13th century. Magnificent, yet closed to visitors due to its private ownership status. However,…

Castles

Burnchurch Castle

Burnchurch Castle is a 15th-century Anglo-Norman castle once owned by the great Fitzgerald family! Located less than 6km south of Kilkenny, the…

Castles

Barryscourt Castle

Château de Barryscourt is a 16th-century Anglo-Norman fortress. Barryscourt Castle, with its imposing wall and fortifications, is a wonderful vestige of Anglo-Norman…

Learn more

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!