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Heritage Ireland

Desmond Castle Newcastlewest

Where sounds of medieval revelry echo around the walls

15 March - 01 November 2024

See all opening times

Desmond Castle Newcastlewest

Where sounds of medieval revelry echo around the walls

15 March - 01 November 2024

See all opening times

Admission

Free admission

Getting here

The Square,
Newcastle West,
Co. Limerick
V42 YD76

Get Directions

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.

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

Open location in Google Maps

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Facilities

  • Toilets
  • Wheelchair Accessible Toilet

Restrictions

  • Access by Guided Tour Only
  • Limited Access

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