Aughnanure Castle

A historical gem in the heart of Connemara

09:30 -18:00 (Please note Seasonal Opening Times from 28 October 2021).

Aughnanure Castle

A historical gem in the heart of Connemara

09:30 -18:00 (Please note Seasonal Opening Times from 28 October 2021).

Limited Access

Grounds open daily -the ground floor of the Castle is also open
Open 09:30 - 18:00 last admission 17:15 until 27 October .
Please note Seasonal Opening Times from 28 October 2021.
Free admission
Public toilet facilities on site.
Site may close for lunch subject to availability of guides.
Social distancing adhered to throughout the grounds - please follow guide instructions.
Site Closed from 29 November 2021-

Admission

Free

Getting here

Aughnanure
Oughterard
Co. Galway
H91 PX20

Get Directions

Aughnanure Castle

The fearsome O’Flaherty family, whose motto was ‘Fortune favours the strong’, ruled west Connacht for 300 years from this fine six-storey tower on the shores of Lough Corrib.

In 1546 the O'Flahertys joined forces with the Mayo O'Malleys when Donal an Chogaidh O’Flaherty married Grace O'Malley, later known as Granuaile, the formidable pirate queen. The O’Malley motto, ‘Powerful by land and by sea,’ showed the awe in which that family, too, was held.

At Aughanure today you can inspect the remains of a banqueting hall, a watch tower, an unusual double bawn and bastions and a dry harbour. Keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of the three species of bat that now live in the castle.

Coming to visit us? Why not download and print off our Aughnanure Castle Family Quest Activity and get a chance to win an OPW Annual Family Heritage Card worth €90