Castles
Travel Guide

Castles in Ireland

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

Castles

Roache Castle

Roache Castle is a ruined castle in County Louth. Built in 1236 by a wealthy Anglo-Norman family, the castle is now in…

Castles

Shane’s Castle

Discover Shane's Castle, a 14th-century ruined castle built near Randalstown in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. With its deep, authentic charm, it was…

Castles

Doughiska Castle

Doughiska Castle is a 16th-century Irish castle in Galway's Merlin Woods Park. In ruins, the building is sumptuous, and has a serious…

Castles

Glanworth Castle

Glanworth Castle is a 13th-century castle in the heart of County Cork, in the village of Glanworth. Built near the Funcheon River,…

Castles

Desmond Castle

Desmond Castle is a 16th-century Kinsale castle. In the form of a square tower, it was used as a "Customs House" until…

Castles

Slane Castle

Overlooking a bend in the Boyne, Slane Castle cuts a silhouette that encapsulates several sides of Ireland. The estate has been an…

Castles

Knockdrin Castle

Knockdrin Castle is a 17th-century Irish castle near Mullingar, County Westmeath, Ireland. A lovely private château, which unfortunately cannot be visited... [...]

Castles

Swords Castle

Swords Castle is a medieval Irish castle built north of Dublin. Built in the 13th century, its Anglo-Norman style is extremely charming!…

Castles

Kilcoe Castle

Owned by actor Jeremy Irons, Kilcoe Castle is located in County Cork, on a small rocky island isolated from the rest of…

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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!