Dungarvan Castle
Journey back to the dawn of Anglo-Norman rule in Ireland
Dungarvan Castle
This castle dates from the early days of the Anglo-Norman settlement in Ireland. It was built c.1209 to safeguard the entrance to Dungarvan Harbour. The polygonal shell keep – a rare building type in Ireland – is the earliest structure on the site.
The castle has an enclosing curtain wall, a corner tower and a gate tower. Within the wall is a two-storey military barracks, which dates from the first half of the eighteenth century. It was used by the British Army and the Royal Irish Constabulary until 1922. During the Irish Civil War Dungarvan Castle was destroyed by the Anti-Treaty IRA. It was subsequently refurbished and served as the Headquarters of the local Garda Síochana.
Today the Barracks and Castle grounds are open to visitors. Inside you will find a revealing exhibition on the Castle’s long and intriguing history.
Highlights

Gallery
Opening Times
26 Bealtaine – 02 Deireadh Fómhair 2023
26 Bealtaine -31 Bealtaine Céadaoin- Domhnaigh 10:00 – 18:00
01 Meithaemh – 02 Deireadh Fómhair Gach Lá 10:00-18:00
Cead isteach deireanach 17:15.
Meánfhad cuairte: 45 nóiméad
Seasonal Opening Times
- 01 June - 02 October
Daily 10:00- 18:00
Last admission 17:15
Average Length of Visit: 45 minutes.
Getting Here
Located at eastern end of Davitt’s Quay/Castle Street
Click the relevant icon below to open Maps directions
Facilities
- Audio Visual Show
- Baby Changing
- Brochure
- Exhibition
- Guided tours
- Interpretive exhibit
- Lift
- Toilets
- Wedding Venue
- Wheelchair Accessible
- Wheelchair Accessible Toilet
Restrictions
- Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times
- Hold hand rail
- No cycling within the grounds
Resources
Social Guide
Download, print and read our social guide (PDF) about visiting Dungarvan Castle. This will help first-time visitors, families and people with developmental and learning disabilities to prepare for a visit to Dungarvan Castle.
Download the Social Guide