Leamaneh Castle is a ruined Irish castle located between the villages of Corofin and Kilfenora, in the heart of the Burren National Park (Co. Clare). Built around 1480, this stately home is still standing, despite the collapse of its roof. This interesting structure began life as a 15th-century tower house, and was later transformed into a 15th-century manor house. Situated on a private estate, the site is rather confidential but well worth a stop.
Leamaneh Castle was originally a simple 5-storey Irish tower house, built around 1480-90. Its original owner was Toirdhealbhach Donn Ó Briain of the O’Brien family, one of the last High Kings of Ireland and a direct descendant of Brian Boru.
The château gradually passed through the hands of different generations of the family… without any major event occurring.
But in 1639, everything changed. One of the family’s descendants, Conor O’Brien, decides to marry Máire ní Mahon (MacMahon), a widow who has inherited a colossal fortune from a first marriage. This wealth enabled them to build a more comfortable manor house from the original tower house.
To achieve this, part of the original building was demolished and replaced by a 4-storey manor house in 1648. The whole is more solid and luxurious, with larger, better-thought-out rooms.
Oliver Cromwell – Public domain
Sadly, husband Conor O’Brien died in 1651, after taking part in a raid against English settlers at Inchicronan.
His widow soon feared that the English would confiscate the château in retaliation.
So she proposes to marry a Cromwellian officer, Cornet John Cooper, who allows her to guard Leamaneh Castle.
In the 1660s, Oliver Cromwell’s troops were stationed at the castle. They appreciate its solidity and strategic location.
However, the castle was abandoned by Máire ní Mahon’s son in 1686. He finds the manor increasingly dilapidated, almost abandoned. The tower and manor are in a sorry state, and he prefers to move the family seat to Dromoland Castle, in Newmarket-On-Fergus, south of Ennis.
The château fell into ruin in the 18th century. The barbican-style gates that adorned the entrance to the property were then moved to Dromoland Castle in 1906 or 1908 by Lord Inchiquin. They’re still there.
Today, Leamaneh Castle has been abandoned. It has remained unchanged since the 18th century. The ruins have not moved since: the manor still stands with its 4 walls and multiple mullioned windows. The vegetation has grown back somewhat, but the facade remains clean.
The remains of the former outbuildings and garden can still be seen.
The site has a serious charm and is well worth a visit, but remains difficult to approach. It has to be said that the château is located on private land, mainly used for farming. It’s hard to park, but a road runs alongside the building, so you can admire it from the roadside.
According to legend, Lemaneh Manor is haunted by the ghost of “Red Mary”. According to the Irish, this young woman was locked up in a hollow tree in ancient times. She then perished inside and has haunted Leamaneh castle ever since.
It’s a fascinating story that attracts many curious paranormal enthusiasts every year. In fact, it’s said to be a popular spot on Halloween night, but don’t be afraid!
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