Irish Castles You Need to Visit
There are some 30,000 castles and castle ruins that can be visited in the Emerald Isle, an experience you certainly won’t find in Cincinnati, Dallas, Los Angeles or pretty much any other city in the U.S. While there are lots of castles throughout the United Kingdom and dotted across mainland Europe, there is just something extra magical about Irish castles, and these are truly a must-visit.
Malahide Castle, Malahide
Malahide Castle is just a short drive from Dublin or 30 minutes by train from the city center, located in a beautiful park in the seaside village of Malahide. The stunningly-restored castle offers tours that allow visitors to journey into its rich historic past, marveling at the magnificent period furnishings while learning about the generations of Talbots who lived here and contributed to the community. It’s also reputedly the home of at least five ghosts, including a 16th-century caretaker named Puck and Lady Maud Plunkett, who is buried in the castle graveyard.
Kilkenny Castle, Malahide
About a 90-minute drive southeast of Dublin, Kilkenny Castle is the largest castle in Ireland, standing out dramatically in the medieval city of Kilkenny. Built in the late 12th-century, it sits strategically along with River Nore and was home to the Butler dynasty from 1391 all the way through 1935. The Long Gallery is the highlight, featuring family portraits dating back to the Butler’s earliest.
Ashford Castle, Cong
This County Mayo castle was built in 1228, transformed into a luxury hotel in the 1930s that attracts the rich and famous and is known for hosting a few celebrity weddings, including actor Pierce Brosnan and pro golfer Rory McIlroy. It was also the setting for the classic film starring John Wayne, “The Quiet Man.” Today visitors can live out their castle fantasies with a stay in one of the elegant rooms adorned with antique furnishings, some with open fireplaces, claw foot tubs and four-poster beds.
Trim Castle, County Meath
The largest Norman castle ever constructed in Ireland, 12th-century Trim Castle may best be known as a filming location for the Scottish epic “Braveheart.” It sits along the River Boyne and was used in the scenes for the city of York. During the summer, screenings of the film are often projected onto the castle walls. No matter when you visit, you won’t want to miss taking a guided tour.
Bunratty Castle, Shannon
While Bunratty is no doubt a touristy experience, it’s remains a favorite among visits with incredible period furnishings and a fascinating history. The present structure was built by the MacNamara family in 1425, but only a half-century later it became the stronghold of the O’Briens. Bunratty Folk Park is just outside the medieval structure, recreating historical buildings and cottages, while the castle itself hosts a medieval banquet complete with musicians in period costumes playing the harp and violin.
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