Castles
Travel Guide

Castles in Ireland

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

roscrea castle 2

Roscrea Castle

Roscrea Castle dates back to the 13th century, and its architecture and gardens are a pleasure to stroll around!
2.56/5 (9 votes)
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Knappogue Castle

Enter this fully restored château. Discover its large banquet halls, its furniture and its history!
3.44/5 (9 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)
The Charleville castle - © andrew

Le Charleville castle

Charleville Castle is a neo-Gothic castle in Ireland, famous for being the most haunted castle in Europe! A magnificent and frightening place to visit!
3.89/5 (9 votes)
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Castle Bernard

Unfortunately, the castle was burnt down during the Irish War of Independence. But its ruins are still accessible.
3.56/5 (9 votes)
kilcoe castle

Kilcoe Castle

This dark castle is owned by actor Jeremy Irons and his wife! A magnificent building, currently being restored by its owners!
4.22/5 (9 votes)
shanganagh castle

Shanganagh Castle

Shanganagh Castle is a fortress built in 1408 by the Lawless family…A little austere, it imposes with its imposing architecture… A must-see…
3.75/5 (8 votes)
kilkea castle 1

Kilkea Castle

A medieval castle unfortunately closed to visitors, but well worth admiring from the outside!
4.13/5 (8 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!