Castles
Travel Guide

Castles in Ireland

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

lynch castle 1

Lynch’s Castle

More manor house than castle, this Galway building is full of surprises!
3.25/5 (12 votes)
roache castle

Roache Castle

An ancient castle, to be explored to better understand how the lords of the Kingdom of Ireland lived.
3.64/5 (11 votes)
Slane castle - Dave Gunn - cc

Slane Castle

The building is a favourite venue for concerts: U2 and the Red Hot Chili Peppers have already performed live here!
3.60/5 (10 votes)
sword castle

Swords Castle

A castle in excellent condition, to be admired! A true invitation to travel to the heart of medieval Ireland, and its perpetual wars!
4.40/5 (10 votes)
doughiska castle 1

Doughiska Castle

It doesn't take long to be seduced by the serious charm of this Anglo-Norman fortified castle. To be discovered in an unspoilt setting!
3.70/5 (10 votes)
glanworth scaled

Glanworth Castle

Let yourself be seduced by the incredible charm of this 13th-century castle! It offers a postcard-perfect view of the outside world!
2.50/5 (10 votes)
desmond castle kinsale 1

Desmond Castle

A 12th-century castle in ruins, now totally abandoned. We love its authentic charm!
3.80/5 (10 votes)
black castle

The Black Castle

Black Castle is an Anglo-Norman fortress located south of the port of Wicklow in Ireland. In ruins, it was built in 1176…
3.44/5 (9 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!