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Heritage Ireland

Athenry Castle

An emblem of Norman lordship

17 March - 5 November 2023

See all opening times

Athenry Castle

An emblem of Norman lordship

17 March - 5 November 2023

See all opening times

Admission

Adult: €5.00
Group/Senior: €4.00
Child/Student: €3.00
Family: €13.00

 

Getting here

Athenry
Co. Galway
H65 WP93

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Athenry Castle

Guarding a strategic ford on the Clarinbridge River is the monumental bulk of Athenry Castle. The imposing three-storey hall-keep survives from the mid-thirteenth century. It is solidly impressive from the outside, although the interior was simply built, containing only a hall at first-floor level and dark storerooms below.

Despite the simplicity of the layout, fine carvings bear witness to the hall’s eminence. The doorway and two of the window openings are decorated with floral motifs in the remarkable local School of the West style. The battlements, through whose tall arrow-loops the castle was defended against various attackers across the centuries, are original.

Visitors come to Athenry Castle to soak up the authentic atmosphere of medieval power that the mighty fortress still exudes.

Opening Times

17 March – 5 November 2023

Daily 09:30- 18:00

Last admission 17:15

Seasonal Opening Times

Contact

Athenry
Co. Galway
H65 WP93

091 844797

Getting Here

Located in the centre of Athenry town

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Click the relevant icon below to open Maps directions

Facilities

  • Audio Description
  • Brochure
  • Car park
  • Guided tours
  • Picnic Area
  • Playground
  • Toilets

Restrictions

  • Dogs on lead
  • Hold hand rail
  • Limited Access
  • No toilet facilities
  • Open: Grounds and Basement only
  • Uneven walkways

Resources

Social Guide

Download, print and read our social guide (PDF) about visiting Athenry Castle. This will help first-time visitors, families and people with developmental and learning disabilities to prepare for a visit to Athenry Castle.

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