Castles
Travel Guide

Castles in Ireland

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

Le Kilkenny castle - © Bjoern Alberts

Kilkenny Castle

A castle right in Kilkenny city centre. Fairly large, it is in perfect condition!
3.49/5 (101 votes)
ashford castle

Ashford Castle

A completely renovated chateau converted into a luxury hotel!
3.44/5 (70 votes)
leap castle 4

The Leap Castle

Are you afraid of ghosts? Leap Castle is said to be a haunted castle, populated by spooky ghosts! Do you dare to venture there?
3.31/5 (49 votes)
ashtown castle 1

Ashtown Castle

A castle built in the heart of Phoenix Park, a wooded park in Dublin. The castle has been converted into a Visitor Centre.
3.55/5 (42 votes)
cloughoughter castle 1

Cloughoughter Castle

It is located on a small island in Lough Oughter, 4 kilometers from the village of Killeshandra in County Cavan. Magnificent, it's a charming sight!
1.85/5 (40 votes)
elisabeth fort

The Elizabeth Fort

A fort in the heart of the city, originally built to protect the city of Cork.
3.18/5 (39 votes)
Castle Ward - © Irina Schmidt

The Castle Ward

A site that served as the filming location for the "Game of Thrones" series. A real landmark for fans!
2.91/5 (34 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!