Leighlinbridge Castle is an Irish fortified castle in the village of Leighlinbridge, County Carlow. Dating from the 12th century, it is believed to be one of the first Norman castles in the region. Although partially in ruins, Leighlinbridge Castle is still open to visitors, much to the delight of medieval building enthusiasts.
Leighlinbridge Castle, also known as Black Castle, is located not far from Carlow, in the small village of Leighlinbridge, on the banks of the River Barrow.
It is thought to have been built in 1180 by the Norman Hugues de Lacy to watch over a particularly busy stretch of the River Barrow, and thus effectively defend the village of Leighlinbridge and the town of Carlow.
The castle would have been modified over the centuries, until in the 14th century it became a square tower appropriated by the Kavanagh family.
The castle was later rebuilt in 1547 by Edward Bellingham and nicknamed the “Black Castle”. The castle was then sacked by Cromwell’s forces in 1650 during the Irish Confederate Wars.
You can visit the tower’s upper floors, after paying an entrance fee of 5 euros per person. The guided tour takes you through the castle’s various rooms. You can then climb to the top of the tower, overlooking the surrounding village of Leighlinbridge and the River Barrow, which flows below the castle.
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