Castles
Travel Guide

Castles in Ireland

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

Castles

Lough Eske Castle

Lough Eske Castle is a castle in Donegal town, dating back to 140, and now converted into a 5-star hotel. An architectural…

Castles

Roscrea Castle

If you're passing through the village of Roscrea, we recommend a visit to Roscrea Castle, a hilltop castle right in the heart…

Castles

Knappogue Castle

Knappogue Castle is a 15th-century Irish castle in the small village of Quin in County Clare. It was built in 1467 and…

Castles

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…

Castles

Castle Bernard

Castle Bernard is a 16th-century castle that was burnt down in 1921 following the British-Irish conflict. Although in ruins, the building has…

Castles

Millmount Fort

In terms of must-sees in Drogheda, our top recommendation is Millmount Fort, a large tower built on a promontory overlooking the rest…

Castles

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…

Castles

Kilkea Castle

Kilkea Castle is a superb Irish castle in County Kildare. Located 5km from Castledermot, the castle’s origins date back to the 12th…

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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!