Castles
Travel Guide

Castles in Ireland

Vue aérienne du Dunluce Castle - © kilhan
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Castles : Must-See Attractions

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The Redwood Castle

Redwood Castle is an Anglo-Norman fortress near Lorrha in County Tipperary. Built during the 13th century, and occupied by the Anglo-Normans until…
3.50/5 (6 votes)
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Nenagh Castle

Passing through Nenagh? Don't miss the tower-shaped castle! Explore its 4 floors and enjoy the incredible view from the top!
3.33/5 (6 votes)
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Puck’s Castle

Laced with a rather serious charm, the building is lost in the countryside, and fascinates as much as it disturbs...
3.83/5 (6 votes)
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Crom Castle

Crom Castle is a Victorian castle in County Fermanagh. Built in 1820, it is set in a magnificent estate and is one of the region's local sights!
3.17/5 (6 votes)
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Carlow Castle

A fortified Irish castle dating from the 13th century. For a true plunge into the heart of Irish medieval history!
3.33/5 (6 votes)
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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…
4.17/5 (6 votes)
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Ferns Castle

A ruined castle to discover. Its massive, round towers are impressive!
4.67/5 (6 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!