Castles
Travel Guide

Castles in Ireland

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

castlewellan

The Castlewellan

Castlewellan is an Irish castle in County Down. A former Scottish stately home, it was built in 1856 and long owned by a wealthy Scottish earl. Today, the building has been bought out and is not open to visitors...
4.00/5 (4 votes)
dun na sead castle baltimore castle 1

Baltimore castle

Baltimore Castle is a famous castle in the Irish village of Baltimore. A major site of Irish piracy, it's a must-see!
4.75/5 (4 votes)
parke castle

Parke Castle

A castle with its feet almost in the water, thanks to its proximity to Lough Gill!
4.25/5 (4 votes)
quoile castle 1

Quoile Castle

If you love ruined buildings, don't miss the sumptuous Quoile Castle, a 16th-century castle now in ruins, just 2 km from Downpatrick. Magnificent, it offers a lovely show, rich in silences!
3.25/5 (4 votes)
ballymoon castle

Ballymoon Castle

Ballymoon Castle is an Irish rune castle, located 3 km east of Muine Bheag in County Carlow. Magnificent and imposing, it was…
3.00/5 (4 votes)
carrigaholt castle 1

Carrigaholt Castle

Carrigaholt Castle is a ruined Irish castle in County Clare, near the village of Carrigaholt. Built in 1480 by the McMahon clan,…
2.75/5 (4 votes)
castle island

McDermott’s Castle

A castle built on a tiny island! Its enchanting setting, coupled with its ruins, makes it a real treasure! An exceptional site that will require you to take the boat!
4.50/5 (4 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!