When you think of Ireland, what comes to mind? The rolling green landscapes, breathtaking coastal cliffs, and, of course, the charming, lively pubs. But there’s another piece of Ireland’s identity that stands just as tall—its castles. Castles in Ireland are more than just historical landmarks; they are timeless symbols of the island’s past, woven into its culture.
Over the years, I’ve had the chance to visit several castles across Ireland, each with its own unique story, charm, and, sometimes, a ghostly legend or two. Some are grand and well-preserved, while others stand in hauntingly beautiful ruins.
Castles in Ireland
Dunluce Castle (Antrim)
Perched on the rugged cliffs of Northern Ireland’s Antrim coast, Dunluce Castle is one of the most breathtaking and dramatic castles in Ireland.
I’ve had the chance to visit Dunluce Castle twice, and each time, I was captivated by its striking location and fascinating history. The castle dates back to the 13th century, but its most famous chapter began in the 16th century when it became the seat of the MacDonnell clan.
Check out my detailed guide to Dunluce Castle.
Carrickfergus Castle (Antrim)
Standing proudly on the shores of Belfast Lough, Carrickfergus Castle is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland. Built in the late 12th century, this imposing Norman fortress has stood the test of time, witnessing countless battles, sieges, and power struggles.
It’s easy to imagine Norman knights patrolling its battlements, defending against invaders coming from land and sea. Even today, the castle feels like a place where history comes alive.
Rock of Cashel (Tipperary)
Visiting the Rock of Cashel feels like stepping into a different era. This wasn’t just a castle—it was once the seat of the Kings of Munster and later became an important religious site.
Walking through the site, I was struck by the sheer scale and atmosphere. The massive round tower, the hauntingly beautiful Cormac’s Chapel with its ancient frescoes, and the grand cathedral ruins all tell tales of power, faith, and medieval life.
And the views from the Rock? Absolutely breathtaking. From the top, you can see for miles across the lush, green fields of Tipperary.
Check out my detailed guide to Rock of Cashel.
Cahir Castle (Tipperary)
Built in the 13th century by the powerful Butler family, Cahir Castle was designed to be an impregnable stronghold. Over the centuries, it saw many battles and sieges, including the Irish Confederate Wars in the 17th century, when it finally fell to Cromwell’s forces.
When I visited Cahir Castle, I was struck by its sheer size and impressive defenses. It’s easy to imagine knights patrolling the battlements and archers preparing for an attack.
Glenveagh Castle (Donegal)
Tucked away in the remote beauty of Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle is unlike any other castle in Ireland. While many castles are perched on cliffs or towering over medieval towns, Glenveagh feels like a hidden retreat—surrounded by mountains, shimmering lakes, and endless wilderness.
One of my favorite parts of visiting Glenveagh was simply wandering through the surrounding landscape. Whether you take a scenic stroll along the lake, hike up the nearby hills, or just soak in the tranquility of the gardens, the whole area feels like a retreat from the modern world.
Check out my detailed guide to Glenveagh Castle and Park.
Donegal Castle
If you’re exploring the Wild Atlantic Way and love historic sites, then Donegal Castle is a must-visit. Nestled in the heart of Donegal Town, this imposing 15th-century fortress stands as a reminder of the county’s rich Gaelic heritage and turbulent past.
Although this castle is less touristy than others, it’s still a stunning historic site, offering a peaceful and immersive experience.
Kilkenny Castle
Standing proudly along the River Nore, Kilkenny Castle is one of the most beautifully restored castles in Ireland.
Unlike the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle or the rugged charm of Glenveagh Castle, Kilkenny feels like a step into aristocratic grandeur, with its opulent interiors, expansive gardens, and a history that spans over 800 years.
One of the highlights of visiting Kilkenny Castle is the interior tour. The restored rooms are breathtaking, filled with rich tapestries, antique furniture, and grand portraits that tell the story of its aristocratic past.
Check out my detailed guide to Kilkenny Castle.
Blarney Castle (Cork)
Blarney Castle dates back to 1446, but what draws thousands of visitors every year is the legendary Blarney Stone, said to bestow the “gift of eloquence” on those who kiss it.
The experience is as nerve-wracking as it is exciting—you have to climb to the top of the castle, lean backward over a sheer drop, and kiss the stone while holding onto iron bars. It sounds a bit daunting, but the views from the top of the castle make the climb absolutely worth it.
Blackrock Castle (Cork)
I found Blackrock Castle to be one of the most intriguing castles in Ireland, not just because of its historic charm, but also because it’s home to a modern space observatory! Imagine exploring a centuries-old fortress while also learning about astronomy and space exploration—it’s a perfect mix of past and future.
Originally built in the late 16th century as a fortress to defend Cork Harbour from pirates and invaders, Blackrock Castle has had a long and varied history. It was later rebuilt in 1828 after a fire and has since been used for military, civic, and now scientific purposes.
McDermott’s Castle (Roscommon)
Nestled on a tiny, tree-covered island in the middle of Lough Key, McDermott’s Castle is one of Ireland’s most picturesque and mysterious ruins.
While McDermott’s Castle is not open to the public for tours, simply seeing it from a boat or kayak feels like discovering a lost world. If you love romantic ruins, haunting legends, and unique adventures, this little island fortress is a must-see.
Ross Castle (Killarney)
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Lough Leane in Killarney National Park, Ross Castle is a picture-perfect example of a 15th-century Irish tower house.
Ross Castle is one of the best-preserved tower houses in Ireland, and guided tours bring its medieval history to life. Inside, you’ll find stone spiral staircases, wooden-beamed ceilings, and 16th-century furnishings, giving a real sense of what life was like for its former residents.
Classiebawn Castle (Sligo)
Classiebawn Castle was originally built for the 3rd Viscount Palmerston, a former British Prime Minister. However, its most famous resident was Lord Louis Mountbatten, a cousin of Queen Elizabeth II and an influential British naval officer.
Perched on a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean near Mullaghmore, the castle stands isolated, surrounded by rolling fields and crashing waves—a postcard-perfect image of Ireland’s wild beauty.
Trim Castle (Meath)
If you’re a fan of medieval history—or even just epic movies like Braveheart—then Trim Castle in County Meath is a must-visit. As Ireland’s largest Anglo-Norman castle, this imposing fortress on the banks of the River Boyne is one of the most impressive medieval sites in the country.
One of the best ways to experience the castle is by taking a guided tour, which allows you to climb to the top of the keep and enjoy spectacular views over Trim and the River Boyne.
Dublin Castle
Right in the center of Dublin, surrounded by the buzz of the city, stands Dublin Castle—one of Ireland’s most historically significant landmarks.
I visited Dublin Castle during one of my early days in the city, and while it doesn’t have the same imposing, battle-ready look as some of Ireland’s other castles, its history is incredibly rich and layered. Walking through its halls feels like stepping into centuries of power, rebellion, and transformation.
Malahide Castle (Dublin)
Just a short trip from Dublin City, nestled in the charming seaside town of Malahide, lies one of Ireland’s most picturesque castles—Malahide Castle. With its ivy-clad stone walls, turrets, and sprawling parklands, this 800-year-old castle feels like something straight out of a fairytale.
When I visited Malahide Castle, I was struck by its perfect balance of history and tranquility. It’s not just about medieval tales and battles—it’s about family heritage, ghostly legends, and stunning gardens that make it a must-visit near Dublin.
Bunratty Castle (Clare)
Known for its history, charm, and interactive experiences, Bunratty Castle stands as a symbol of Ireland’s rich medieval heritage, with its impressive towers, grand rooms, and vibrant past.
In addition to the castle itself, you can visit Bunratty Folk Park, which is located on the same grounds. This open-air museum brings Ireland’s past to life with restored cottages, farms, and a village street filled with costumed actors, old-fashioned shops, and traditional activities.
King John’s Castle (Limerick)
Perched on the banks of the River Shannon in the heart of Limerick City, King John’s Castle is one of the most impressive and best-preserved Norman castles in Ireland.
Unlike castles that focus purely on medieval ambiance, this one offers engaging exhibitions, digital storytelling, and hands-on activities, making it an exciting visit for history lovers and families alike.
Adare Castle (Limerick)
Nestled in the heart of Adare, often called Ireland’s prettiest village, Adare Castle (also known as Desmond Castle) is a remarkable medieval fortress that offers a glimpse into Ireland’s feudal past.
When I visited Adare, I was immediately drawn to the storybook-like beauty of the village. But beyond its quaint streets and colorful shopfronts, the imposing stone walls of Adare Castle stand as a reminder of the area’s rich and turbulent history.
Belfast Castle
When I visited Belfast Castle, I was amazed at how peaceful and scenic it is. Not only is the castle itself beautiful, but its location on Cave Hill makes it one of the best viewpoints in Belfast.
Designed in Scottish Baronial style, Belfast Castle is more of a stately home than a fortress, featuring turrets, decorative stonework, and grand staircases. It became a place of social gatherings and noble events, eventually being gifted to the city of Belfast in the 20th century.
Athlone Castle
Sitting proudly on the banks of the River Shannon, Athlone Castle is one of the castles in Ireland that played a key role in Ireland’s military history.
Originally constructed in the 12th century by the Anglo-Normans, Athlone Castle was designed to control one of the most important river crossings in Ireland. Over the centuries, it was attacked, rebuilt, and expanded, becoming a key site during the Williamite War in 1691, when it witnessed a brutal siege between Irish and English forces.
Birr Castle (Offaly)
Originally built as a Norman fortress, Birr Castle was later transformed into a grand estate. In the 19th century, it became famous for its scientific achievements, thanks to the 3rd Earl of Rosse, who built the world’s largest telescope at the time.
This telescope, known as the Great Leviathan, was the most powerful in the world for over 70 years and helped astronomers discover new galaxies.
Whether you’re interested in astronomy, engineering, history, or simply want to enjoy stunning gardens, Birr Castle offers something for everyone.
Leap Castle (Offaly)
If you’re a fan of mystery, legends, and ghost stories, then Leap Castle in Offaly is a must-visit. Known as Ireland’s most haunted castle, it has a chilling past filled with rivalry, betrayal, and supernatural encounters. This castle is definitely one of the most mysterious castles in Ireland.
The castle also contains a dungeon (oubliette), where prisoners were thrown to their deaths, impaled on spikes below. The remains of hundreds of skeletons were discovered here in the 20th century, adding to its dark legend.
Ashford Castle (Mayo)
If you’ve ever dreamed of living like royalty, then Ashford Castle in Mayo is the place to be!
Originally built in 1228 by the Anglo-Norman de Burgo family, Ashford Castle was later owned by the Guinness family (yes, the famous brewers!) in the 19th century.
They expanded and transformed it into a lavish estate, fit for hosting royalty, celebrities, and dignitaries. Today, it’s a world-famous luxury hotel, welcoming guests from all over the globe.
Lismore Castle (Waterford)
Lismore Castle has a rich and fascinating history. Originally built in 1185 by King John of England, it later became home to Sir Walter Raleigh (yes, the famous explorer!). In the 19th century, the castle was transformed into a grand Gothic mansion by the 6th Duke of Devonshire, whose family still owns it today.
Since the castle is still a private residence, you can’t tour the interior unless you book it for an exclusive stay (which comes with a hefty price tag!). However, the castle gardens are open to the public and are well worth a visit.
Kinbane Castle (Ballycastle)
If you’re looking for a castle with breathtaking coastal views, dramatic ruins, and an off-the-beaten-path experience, Kinbane Castle in Ballycastle is a must-visit.
Built in 1547 by Colla MacDonnell, Kinbane Castle had a short but turbulent history. As part of the MacDonnell stronghold, it was strategically placed to defend against English forces, but it suffered multiple attacks, including a siege by the English in the 16th century.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many castles are there in Ireland?
Ireland is home to over 30,000 castles and castle ruins! While some are well-preserved and open to visitors, many are abandoned ruins, adding to the country’s mysterious charm.
Can you stay overnight in castles in Ireland?
Yes! Several castles in Ireland have been transformed into luxury hotels where you can experience royal treatment. Some of the best castle hotels include:
- Ashford Castle (Mayo) – A five-star luxury hotel with incredible grounds and history.
- Dromoland Castle (Clare) – A stunning 16th-century castle hotel with world-class amenities.
- Lough Eske Castle (Donegal) – A beautiful castle hotel set on the shores of Lough Eske.
Are there any free castles to visit in Ireland?
Yes! Some castles in Ireland are free to explore, such as:
- Kinbane Castle (Antrim) – A hidden coastal ruin with stunning views.
- McDermott’s Castle (Roscommon) – Located on an island in Lough Key, viewable from the shore.
- Rock of Dunamase (Laois) – A dramatic medieval ruin with incredible views.
Conclusion
Exploring castles in Ireland is like stepping into a storybook filled with history, legends, and breathtaking landscapes.
Hope you enjoyed reading this guide. If you have any more questions, please comment below and also share your experience with me if you’ve visited any of these castles in Ireland. Have fun and be safe!
