Listowel Castle
The last bastion of the Fitzmaurices
Listowel Castle
The last bastion of the Fitzmaurices
Listowel Castle
Listowel Castle stands on an elevation overlooking the River Feale, above the location of a strategic ford. Although only half of the building survives, it is still one of Kerry’s best examples of Anglo-Norman architecture.
Only two of the original four square towers, standing over 15 metres high, remain. The towers are united by a curtain wall of the same height and linked together – unusually – by an arch on one side.
Listowel was the last bastion against the forces of Queen Elizabeth in the First Desmond Rebellion in 1569. The castle’s garrison held out for 28 days of siege before finally being overpowered by Sir Charles Wilmot. In the days following the castle’s fall, Wilmot executed all of the soldiers left inside.
Right next door to the castle is Seanchaí – the Kerry Literary and Cultural Centre – where you can journey through the fascinating history of the castle and the region.
Highlights
Gallery
Opening Times
25 Bealtaine – 30 Meán Fómhair 2023
Gach lá 10:00 – 18:00
Cead isteach deireanach 17:15
Notice
Please note access to the upper castle floors is by steep winding staircases so there is very limited wheelchair access on site.
Seasonal Opening Times
- Out of Season Tour Groups
Please note access to the upper castle floors is by steep winding staircases so there is very limited wheelchair access on site.
Listowel Castle can be opened out of season for tour groups by prior arrangement with Pádraig Ó Ruairc
Getting Here
Located in Listowel town centre
Click the relevant icon below to open Maps directions
Facilities
- Challenging Access
Restrictions
- Access by Guided Tour Only
- Challenging Access
- Hold hand rail
- Limited Access
- Uneven walkways
Nearby sites to visit
Listowel Castle
Scattery Island Centre
In the footsteps of St Senan
Approx. 18.8 km from Listowel Castle
Ardfert Cathedral
A trio of medieval churches devoted to St Brendan
Approx. 23.8 km from Listowel Castle
Desmond Castle Newcastlewest
Where sounds of medieval revelry echo around the walls
Approx. 28.9 km from Listowel Castle
