Do you love ruined castles with their dark, serious charm? We recommend Roscommon Castle, a 13th-century Anglo-Norman castle in Roscommon, Ireland. Now in ruins, it’s a true national treasure, renowned for its remains and incredible ambience!
Roscommon Castle traces its origins back to 1269, when it was built by Robert D’Ufford, a high-ranking Irish magistrate of the time. He had the castle built on land taken from an Augustinian priory, making it a regional stronghold.
Nevertheless, the castle was besieged in 1272 by the King of Connacht himself, Aodh O’Connor.
It was then that the castle underwent numerous assaults, passing successively into the hands of the English, before finally being retaken by the O’Connors in 1340. They retained their hold on the castle until 1569, when it fell into the hands of Sir Henry Sidney, the Lord Deputy.
But Roscommon changed hands again in 1645, when it came under the control of the Confederate Catholics. It remained under Irish control until 1652, when it was partially destroyed by Oliver Cromwell’s British troops. The fortifications fall. The building is in poor condition…
The final blow came in 1690, when the château fell victim to a terrible fire.
Today, the château remains as it was, with its partially standing walls, half-collapsed towers and history-laden ambience.
Today, the château is open to visitors, as is its 5-hectare park, where you can enjoy a pleasant stroll.
Don’t hesitate to visit the castle. The building is rectangular in plan, with magnificent mullioned windows. Its round towers, still imposing, hint at the many sieges that took place there.
Built on the shores of Lake Loughanbane, the castle’s sublime views will take you back to the time of the Irish Middle Ages, with its wars, conquests and constant power struggles.
The château’s grounds are also worth a visit. It features :
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
Castle Ln, Cloonbrackna, Co. Roscommon, Ireland, Roscommon (County Roscommon) - Republic of Ireland
53.635480, -8.193249
30 minutes
daily from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm
Check the opening hours and admission requirements before you leave, especially during peak season or on Irish public holidays.
Here are a few useful places to stay so you can extend your trip and stay close to the sights you want to visit.
