Desmond Castle Newcastlewest
Where sounds of medieval revelry echo around the walls
15 March - 01 November 2024
Admission
Free admission
Desmond Castle Newcastlewest
Many of Ireland’s surviving medieval halls are in west Limerick. The Desmond Banqueting Hall in Newcastle West is one of the most impressive among them.
It was begun in the thirteenth century by Thomas ‘the Ape’ FitzGerald, so named because of the story that an ape took him from his cradle to the top of Tralee Castle – and delivered him safely back again.
However, most of the spacious, imposing structure was created in the fifteenth century, at the height of the Desmond earls’ power, and used as a venue for frequent and lavish banquets.
The oak gallery, from which musicians would provide a raucous soundtrack for the revelry below, has been fully restored.
Highlights
Gallery
Opening Times
15 March – 01 November 2024.
Daily 10:00 – 18:00
Last admission 45 mins before closing.
Seasonal Opening Times
- 30 October - 1 November
Daily 10:00- 17:00
Last admission 45 mins before closing.
Contact
The Square,
Newcastle West,
Co. Limerick
V42 YD76
069 77408
Getting Here
Located in the centre of Newcastle West
Click the relevant icon below to open Maps directions
Facilities
- Toilets
- Wheelchair Accessible Toilet
Restrictions
- Access by Guided Tour Only
- Limited Access
Nearby sites to visit
Desmond Castle Newcastlewest
Askeaton Castle
A ruined stronghold of the earls of Desmond
Approx. 17.6 km from Desmond Castle Newcastlewest
Adare Castle
Discover a medieval masterpiece, built for defence
Approx. 22.3 km from Desmond Castle Newcastlewest
Listowel Castle
The last bastion of the Fitzmaurices
Approx. 28.9 km from Desmond Castle Newcastlewest