Castles
Ireland’s castles are proud defenders of our history. If walls could speak these castles would tell of thrilling adventures, brave battles, daring sieges and cunning exploits. They would tell tales of clans and families, noble lords, formidable ladies and some unwelcome occupiers - all part of the tapestry of Ireland’s story.
Explore the magnificent keeps, donjons and towers that made these castles the ultimate symbols of political power in their time. Take the view from the proud battlements and try find hidden murder holes and secret rooms.
Let our expert guides tell the stories of these architectural masterpieces and their fearsome inhabitants.

Adare Castle
Discover a medieval masterpiece, built for defence

Athenry Castle
An emblem of Norman lordship

Aughnanure Castle
A historical gem in the heart of Connemara

Ballyhack Castle
Savour a sense of the Middle Ages

Barryscourt Castle
A fine Irish tower house bearing the scars of battle

Cahir Castle
A defensive powerhouse of the thirteenth century

Desmond Castle Kinsale
A building at the core of Kinsale’s history

Desmond Castle Newcastlewest
Where sounds of medieval revelry echo around the walls

Doe Castle
A waterside citadel with a thrilling history

Donegal Castle
One of Ireland’s most splendid Gaelic castles

Dungarvan Castle
Journey back to the dawn of Anglo-Norman rule in Ireland

Ferns Castle
Two nations, two cultures and one shared heritage

Kilkenny Castle
The jewel in the crown of an enchanting medieval city

Listowel Castle
The last bastion of the Fitzmaurices

Maynooth Castle
A glimpse of life in a Norman fortress

Ormond Castle
Discover a Tudor gem

Parke’s Castle
Walk in the footsteps of planters and Gaels

Portumna Castle and Gardens
Seventeenth-century splendour on the shores of Lough Derg

Rathfarnham Castle
An inspiring Elizabethan castle within easy reach of Dublin City Centre

Roscrea Castle, Gardens and Damer House/Black Mills
A place of medieval might and eighteenth-century elegance

Ross Castle
A lakeside citadel steeped in legend

Trim Castle
The ultimate symbol of Norman glory

