Castles
Travel Guide

Castles in Ireland

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

Castles

Laurence’s Gate

Laurence’s Gate is a 13th-century building in the town of Drogheda. This is one of the last vestiges of the city’s ancient…

Castles

The Coole Castle

Coole Castle is one of these magnificent Irish castles/manors. Located not far from the Northern Irish village of Enniskillen, it's one of…

Castles

Tynte’s Castle

Tynte's Castle is a Youghal castle in County Tipperary, on North Main Street. Constructed in the form of a fortified tower, it…

Castles

Ballybunion Castle

Ballybunion Castle is a superb 16th-century ruined castle built on a promontory overlooking Ballybunion beach in County Kerry. It's a magnificent building…

Castles

Jordan’s Castle

Jordan's Castle remains a historical mystery to this day. Its construction date remains unknown, although it is suspected to have been built…

Castles

Belvelly Castle

Belvelly Castle is an Irish castle located north of Cobh in County Cork. Built in the 14th century, it is precisely located…

Castles

Tully Castle

Tully Castle is an ancient ruined castle built in the 17th century. Ravaged by siege and fire, the site now boasts a…

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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!