Castles
Travel Guide

Castles in Ireland

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

Castles

Bunowen Castle

Bunowen Castle is a ruined fortress in Gaway County, in the heart of Connemara. Now in ruins, it still boasts imposing architecture…

Castles

Athcarne Castle

If you love haunted castles steeped in history and mystery, then don't miss Athcarne Castle, a County Meath castle of dark and…

Castles

Trim Castle

Trim Castle is undoubtedly one of Ireland's most impressive castles! This magnificent building has a charm all of its own, taking you…

Castles

Desmond Castle

Adare's Desmond Castle (not to be confused with Kinsale's Desmond Castle) is considered one of the finest examples of a medieval castle…

Castles

Dunseverick Castle

Dunseverick Castle is an ancient castle, now in ruins, built in County Antrim in Northern Ireland... Dunseverick Castle is located on a…

Castles

O’Brien Castle

O'Brien Castle, a 14th-century tower, stands on the Irish island of Inisheer (in the Aran Islands archipelago). One of the island's major…

Castles

The Three castle head

Discover one of Ireland's most beautiful ruined castles, Dunlough Castle! Set on cliffs overlooking the ocean, it's a breathtaking sight! Not to…

Castles

Doonagore Castle

Doonagore Castle is a privately-owned castle on the coast of County Clare. Magnificent, it boasts a breathtaking view of the ocean, and…

Castles

Athlone Castle

Athlone Castle is a magnificent Irish fortress built in the town of Athlone (Co. of Westmeath). Still intact today, the castle has…

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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!