There are many castles in Ireland, but not all of them are equally interesting. We’ve reviewed the most popular castles in Ireland, from Kilkenny to Clontarf, and discussed the history of Dunluce and Trim. Read on to learn more about each one.
In addition, here are some tips for visiting these castles:
Clontarf Castle
The original Clontarf Castle was built in 1172, but the current structure was completed in 1837 by William Vitruvius Morrison. The castle was used by the Knights Templar and the Knights Hospitaller during the Crusades. It was later given to Elizabeth I, who gave it to Sir Geoffrey Fenton, who in turn gave it to various families. However, the castle was later used during an uprising against the throne, and in 1641, it was confiscated by Cromwell.
The deluxe rooms at Clontarf Castle are furnished with Jacquard fabrics and hand-painted wallpaper. Each one has its own terrace or balcony with beautiful views of Dublin’s mountains. The hotel also offers complimentary mineral water and tea/coffee-making facilities. During a stay at Clontarf Castle, you can also relax at the hotel’s elegant bar, Fahrenheit Restaurant. In addition, you’ll enjoy a drink at the castle’s stylish pub and explore the historic sites in the city.
Dunluce Castle
For those interested in medieval history and Clan McDonnell’s history, the Dunluce Castle ruins should be on your bucket list. This castle was the seat of the McDonnell clan and sat on a basalt outcrop in County Antrim. Visitors can visit the ruins by crossing a bridge that connects the island to the mainland. Now, this castle has been left to deteriorate, but it is still a worthwhile stop for history lovers.
Dunluce Castle has a unique history located on the steep slopes of the Boyne. Evidence from the first millennium BC suggests that people lived in the area. The castle was built by feuding clans who were impoverished after the Battle of the Boyne. The ruins are open to the public, with various exhibits to view. Hours vary according to season, but generally, the castle is open from 9 am to 5 pm on weekdays. During December/January, opening hours are slightly less, with a final closing time of 30 minutes before closing.
Kilkenny Castle
If you are planning a visit to Ireland, you must see Kilkenny Castle. This historic castle was built in 1195 and is well worth the time. It was constructed to control a fording point on the River Nore and the intersection of several routes. A regal figure adorned the castle’s mighty walls and towers. Today, it is a popular tourist spot for tourists.
The Butler family first came to Ireland in 1171, during the first wave of Norman invasion. They soon became rulers of the area and stayed there for five centuries. The castle was briefly occupied by Confederate Ireland, a Catholic rebel movement, but it soon returned to the Butler family’s hands. In 1650, Cromwell’s men burned down the castle and destroyed it, but the family rebuilt it in 1661. In addition, a new entrance gate was built on the south wall.
Trim Castle
The trim castle in County Meath is a huge fortress that stretches over 30,000 square meters. Built by Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter over 30 years, the Trim Castle was designed to be the caput of the Lordship of Meath. Today, you can tour the interiors of this historic site, including its magnificent dungeons. You can also visit the castle’s gardens, designed to be as picturesque as possible.
The first recorded use of Trim Castle was as a wooden fortress, but in the 12th century, it was built on the raised ground over a fording point on the River Boyne. During its time, the Trim Castle served as a magnificent vantage point. The name ‘Trim Castle’ is an Irish term, meaning ‘Ford of the Elder Trees.’ A visit to Trim Castle is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Ireland.
Glenveagh Castle
If you want to spend a day in the beautiful green countryside, you should consider visiting the castellated Glenveagh Castle in County Donegal, Ireland. This mansion is one of the largest in the country and is well worth the trip. The castle is located in the Glenveagh National Park, which is also home to several other historic sites. For more information on the castle, click here. The castle is open for visitors to visit by appointment only.
The house is home to a series of famous residents, including American Arthur Kingsley Porter, a Harvard professor who came to Ireland to study Irish culture. He and his wife, Lucy, entertained Irish artists and literary figures at the castle, and AE Russell painted there during his stay. Sadly, Porter’s wife died in 1933 while she was painting in the library. It is now unknown whether he ever made it back to Ireland or was killed during a mysterious incident there.
Cahir Castle
If you’re planning a trip to Ireland, make sure to visit the impressive Cahir Castle. Sited on an island in the River Suir, this castle was originally built in 1142 by Conchobar Ua Briain, King of Thomond. Today, it stands in the town center of Cahir. The site is well-preserved and has audiovisual shows in several languages. There are also guided tours.
The English landed in Dublin in April 1599 and were attempting to take Cahir Castle. However, they were unsuccessful and captured many of their soldiers. In the end, they regained control of the castle by sneaking into the inner courtyards. When the English captured Cahir castle, they could not capture the rebels in the west. It took three days for Essex and his forces to capture it. However, the English were not yet willing to give up the castle.
King John’s Castle
King John’s Castle, also known as Limerick Castle, is a historic site located on the Island of King’s in Limerick, Ireland. The castle dates back to the 922 century when Vikings inhabited the Island. The castle was later constructed in 1200 by King John. Its history is filled with legends, and visiting the castle will be an exciting adventure. Listed below are some of the highlights of King John’s Castle in Limerick.
The interior of King John’s Castle contains an archeological dig from the 16th century. You can see pre-Norman houses, coins, and evidence of a 1642 siege. You can even see pre-Norman levels in an archaeological dig. Unfortunately, the slide show is not very good, but you can still view the remains of the medieval fort. The tour ends with a visit to the Treaty Stone, commemorating the battle of King John’s Castle against the Williamites.
Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle is the most important building in the history of the city of the same name. It was first built in 1204 and served as a residence and administrative center for the Irish Representative to the British Monarch. The castle was originally built on the site of a Danish Viking fortress, which was demolished in the 930s. It later became a Norman fort and was also used as a government building after Ireland gained independence. Dublin Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country.
This castle is surrounded by defensive walls and has a beautiful courtyard. The four-round towers have helped keep the castle’s beauty. It features an elaborate courtyard with a garden and a hall dedicated to Saint Patrick. The castle’s architect, John Cornforth, described it as a “symbol of the English make-do and mend” style. It is located in the heart of historic Dublin.
- Patrick’s Rock
Located in Cashel, County Tipperary, the Rock of Cashel, also known as St. Patrick’s Rock or Cashel of Kings, is a historical site worth visiting. Listed on the National Trust for Historic Buildings, the site is an important historical landmark that traces the early history of Ireland. Today, it is an important tourist destination and well worth a visit. So whether you’re in the mood for a historical adventure or just want to enjoy a beautiful view, St. Patrick’s Rock is a unique attraction that’s sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Cashel Castle is a stunningly beautiful, 1,000-year-old landmark. It was once associated with early Christian heritage in Ireland and was the seat of the High Kings of Munster. St. Patrick is said to have accidentally placed the sharp-pointed crosier on the king’s foot during the baptism ceremony. King Aengus remained silent, thinking it was part of the ceremony.
