There’s something magical about approaching an old castle – you feel like you’re stepping back in time or straight into a fairy story. Ireland has more than its share of dramatic castles, from medieval tower houses to Palladian-style mansions and ruins perched dramatically by the sea.
For a truly memorable family day out, take your pick from these amazing castles in Ireland to visit with the kids. Each one comes with a stunning backdrop for photos, and a story or two to bring history to life.
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Castles in Ireland to Visit
Ardgillan Castle, Dublin
Although referred to as a castle, the residence at Ardgillan is a large country-style house built in 1738 with castellated embellishments. The house has two storeys over a basement that extends out under the lawns on the southern side of the building. It has been restored, and the ground floor rooms and kitchens are open to visitors for guided tours.
As well as castle tours, you can enjoy the parklands in the Demesne, visit the Walled Garden, Rose Garden and Ornamental Gardens, take afternoon tea at the tearooms, find fairies on the fairy trail, and enjoy seasonal events.
Ashford Castle, Mayo
Ashford Castle in Cong, Co. Mayo, on the shores of Lough Corrib, has a rich history extending back to 1228 and was once home to the famous Guinness family. It’s now a five-star luxury hotel and resort that has played host to many notable guests over the years, including John Lennon, Oscar Wilde, President Ronald Reagan and Robin Williams.
Unless you’re staying at the hotel, you won’t be able to see inside, but you can enjoy exploring the gardens with a parterre, a beautiful walled garden full of flowers, fruit and vegetables, and the long Terraced Walk and Broad Walk with views across the grounds. Then stop by Mrs Tea’s Boutique and Gift Shop for refreshments and a browse.
Athlone Castle, Westmeath
Athlone Castle was first built during the 13th century to defend a crossing point on the River Shannon and evolved into a bold defensive structure over the centuries. Elements of the original castle can still be seen today. The Athlone Castle Visitor Experience tells the story of settlement in this part of Ireland’s Ancient East, from the Neolithic period through Viking and medieval times to modern-day Athlone.
During your visit you’ll discover tales of bitter battles, territories won and lost, and stories of bravery. Walk in the steps of monks, kings, soldiers and generals through a series of modern exhibitions, authentic museum artefacts, interactive games and an immersive cinematic experience of the Great Siege of Athlone.
Aughnanure Castle, Galway
Aughnanure Castle near Oughterard, built by the O’Flahertys around 1500, sits in picturesque surroundings close to the shores of Lough Corrib. In 1546, the O’Flahertys’ motto “Fortune favours the strong” and the powerful Mayo O’Malleys’ motto “Powerful by land and by sea” were joined in the marriage of Donal an Chogaidh O’Flaherty and Gráinne/Grace O’Malley.
Standing on a rocky island, the castle is a particularly well-preserved example of an Irish tower house. As you visit, you’ll see what’s left of the banqueting hall, a watchtower, double bawn, bastions and a dry harbour. Seasonal events also take place at the castle during holidays.
Ballycarbery Castle, Kerry
Situated near the water’s edge at Cahersiveen, you’ll find the impressive ruins of Ballycarbery Castle, with its ivy-covered tower house, once home to the McCarthy clan and built in the 15th century. It’s probably the largest castle built on the Iveragh Peninsula and is still very impressive from a distance.
Though listed on the county’s historical buildings list, there are no gates or paths into the castle. As with any ruined building, take care near it.
Birr Castle Demesne
Birr Castle, home to the Earl of Rosse, dates back to medieval times and is open to the public for guided tours on a seasonal basis. The Castle Tour takes you through the main reception rooms, after which you can enjoy the Science Centre, the Great Telescope, and the extensive gardens, which are open for most of the year.
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Blarney Castle, Cork
Blarney Castle is one of Ireland’s most popular visitor attractions, largely thanks to the Blarney Stone – legend has it that if you kiss the stone, you’ll never again be lost for words.
Built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland’s greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, King of Munster, the castle has a colourful history. Legend tells that MacCarthy supplied thousands of men from Munster to support Robert the Bruce at the Battle of Bannockburn in 1314, and that the Scottish king later gave half of the Stone of Scone to MacCarthy in gratitude – what is now known as the Blarney Stone.
Bunratty Castle, Clare
Go back in time with a visit to Bunratty Castle in County Clare, built in 1425. It comes complete with its own authentic medieval fortress, a folk park with homes from the past showing how people once lived, a walled garden and a fairy village.
At the fairy village, let the little ones explore the miniature Bunratty Castle and mini replicas of the houses that surround the folk park. There’s also a willow tunnel and willow hut within the magical forest trail.
An array of animals live at Bunratty who would love a visit, including donkeys, sheep, ponies, deer, goats, peacocks and ducks. Then spend time at the Folk Park exploring the village street, complete with a school, doctor’s house, pub and shops.
Cahir Castle, Tipperary
Standing guard over the River Suir in Tipperary, Cahir Castle is one of Ireland’s most impressive medieval castles. It has featured in several films and TV series – parts of The Tudors were filmed here, along with Excalibur and Moonfleet.
Explore this historic castle with a guided tour, where you’ll discover the story of the powerful Butler family who owned it and learn more about the building itself. If you’d rather stroll around at your own pace, you can watch audiovisual shows along the way. Mind the kids on the narrow stairs and castle walls if you climb up them.
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Carlingford Castle, Louth
Carlingford Castle, also known as King John’s Castle, was built in the 12th century overlooking Carlingford Lough. Built by Hugh de Lacy, this dramatic fortress offers stunning views across the Lough towards the Mourne Mountains, and it’s said that King John of England stayed here for a few days in 1210.
The original castle consisted of an enclosed D-shaped courtyard with two rectangular towers at the entrance. The eastern part was built in 1261, with a number of rooms and a great hall.
There’s a viewing area on the shore side of the castle with lovely views across Carlingford Lough towards the Mourne Mountains and the Irish Sea. Then head back into Carlingford to wander its narrow streets with medieval buildings, including Taaffe’s Castle, a 16th-century tower house. There’s also the Carlingford Heritage Centre, located in a medieval church, with displays on local history and seasonal events.
Castle Hackett and Knockma Hill, Galway
Knockma Hill, just outside Belclare in Co. Galway, is a magical place to spend a day. It’s reputed to be one of three possible burial sites for Queen Maeve and was home to Finvarra, King of the Connacht fairies.
The hill is partially covered in woodland and has fairy doors dotted throughout. There’s an easy walking route to the top offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and you can explore the ruins of Castle Hackett too.
Claregalway Castle, Galway
Claregalway Castle, probably built in the late fifteenth century, sits at the lowest crossing point of the River Clare before it flows through bogland into the Corrib. While commonly called a castle, it’s technically more accurately described as a tower house.
Following a major restoration, Claregalway Castle is open to the public seasonally, where, with the help of a castle guide, you can walk the corridors of time and follow its history from Norman times to the present, taking in the masterful woodwork of the great hall and the stonework that has stood against wars and strife for almost a thousand years.
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Classiebawn Castle, Sligo
Although you can’t visit Classiebawn Castle as it’s privately owned, you’ll spot this striking castle as you travel the coastal route from Sligo to Glencolumbkille. It’s a stunning sight, with Benbulbin behind and the ocean beside it.
It was once home to Lord Mountbatten, great-uncle to King Charles, who was killed when his boat was blown up by the Provisional IRA.
Visit the village of Mullaghmore nearby and enjoy the stunning beach with shallow waters, perfect for kids.
Castle Island, Lough Key, Roscommon
Castle Island, in the middle of Lough Key, is a most romantic sight, with references to it dating back to 1184. In those days the area was known as Moylurg, ruled by the McDermotts, whose official residence was on “The Rock” – now Castle Island. As space was limited on the small island, they kept a second residence on the mainland, where the Moylurg Tower stands today.
You’ll also enjoy the amenities at Lough Key Forest & Activity Park, including woodland walks and trails, the Tree Canopy Walk high above the trees, Boda Borg, an adventure playground and more.
Clough Oughter Castle, Cavan
Clough Oughter Castle, dating back to the early 13th century, forms part of the Marble Arch Geopark and sits beside the picturesque Killykeen Forest Park, which has accessible nature walks. The castle itself stands on a crannog (a man-made island), so it’s only accessible by boat or canoe. Canoes can be rented from Cavan Canoe Centre, who also offer guided day trips to the castle.
If a canoe trip isn’t for you, the castle can be viewed from several spots on land. It became the last remaining stronghold for rebels during the Cromwellian era, before falling to Cromwell’s cannons in 1653. The castle walls were breached and it was never rebuilt.
Enjoy a visit to the Marble Arch Caves and Geopark afterwards.
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Doonagore Castle, Clare
Doonagore Castle is a round 16th-century tower house with a small walled enclosure, located about 1km above the coastal village of Doolin in County Clare. Its name may derive from Dún na Gabhair, meaning “the fort of the rounded hills” or “the fort of the goats”.
It’s currently a private holiday home, so the public can’t visit, but it’s viewable from the main road and has an interesting history. In September 1588, a ship of the Spanish Armada was wrecked below the castle, and 170 survivors were caught by the High Sheriff of Clare and hanged at Doonagore Castle or nearby.
Doolin itself is a lovely little village with pubs and restaurants, famous for live traditional music sessions that are perfect for children to listen to or even join in. Walk down to Doolin Pier and enjoy the views of the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands and Galway Bay.
Donegal Castle
Built by the O’Donnell chieftains in the 15th century beside the River Eske, Donegal Castle has extensive 17th-century additions. The fortified castle keep was widely regarded as one of the finest Gaelic castles in Ireland. Before he fled during the Flight of the Earls, Hugh Roe O’Donnell was forced to set fire to his own tower rather than let it fall into English hands.
The castle has been restored and is furnished throughout with Persian rugs and French tapestries. Information panels chronicle the history of its owners, from the O’Donnell chieftains to the Brooke family, and guided tours are available.
Note: access for people with disabilities is limited to the ground floor.
Duckett’s Grove, Carlow
Duckett’s Grove is a ruined 19th-century great house, formerly at the centre of a 20,000-acre estate that dominated the Carlow landscape for over 300 years. Even in ruin, the surviving towers and turrets of Duckett’s Grove Walled Gardens and Pleasure Grounds make it one of the most photogenic historic buildings in Ireland.
After exploring the two restored Walled Gardens, enjoy a visit to the Tea Rooms.
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Dunguaire Castle, Galway
Dunguaire Castle is a striking castle on the outskirts of Kinvara. It was built in 1520 by the O’Hynes clan, later passed to the Martyns of Galway, and was eventually bought and restored by Oliver St. John Gogarty, the famous surgeon and literary figure. Under his ownership it became a meeting place for literary revivalists including W.B. Yeats, his patron Lady Gregory, George Bernard Shaw and J.M. Synge.
Today the restored castle offers an insight into the lives of the people who lived there from 1520 to modern times, and medieval-style banquet evenings run seasonally. Parking is available across the road from the castle.
Enniscorthy Castle, Wexford
Once home to Norman knights, English armies, Irish rebels, prisoners and local merchant families, Enniscorthy Castle sits in the heart of County Wexford.
Children will love exploring the dungeons and battlements of the castle and viewing the exhibitions as you move through it.
Tip: you can dress up as a knight at the castle when you visit, and there’s also a great view from the roof.
Enniskillen Castle, Fermanagh
Enniskillen Castle, built almost 600 years ago beside the River Erne, stands guard over one of the few passes into Ulster and has played a strategic role throughout history.
It has a 17th-century Watergate with twin turrets and a museum in the Castle Keep. The Visitor Centre boasts interactive quizzes, exhibits, movies and stories.
There are two museums to explore at the castle:
1. Fermanagh County Museum, where you can learn about the history of Fermanagh, the county’s traditional rural life, local crafts and the celebrated pottery of Belleek.
2. The Inniskillings Museum, which tells the story of Enniskillen’s two regiments, the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers and the 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards.
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Johnstown Castle, Wexford
Johnstown Castle is a spectacular gothic castle in Wexford offering a great day out for all ages. It was built in the 1170s and first occupied by the Esmonde family, a Norman line. In 1692, John Grogan acquired the castle, and his descendants owned it until 1945, when it was gifted to the nation. It’s now run in partnership by the Irish Heritage Trust, Teagasc and the Irish Agricultural Museum, offering castle tours and a visitor experience.
The castle is surrounded by beautiful ornamental gardens designed by Daniel Robertson, with walks by three lakes, gothic statues, peacocks and other wildlife, and a Victorian walled garden to discover.
The Irish Agricultural Museum, housed within the castle grounds, displays one of the most comprehensive collections showcasing farming and rural life in Ireland, with everything from tractors to kitchens.
King John’s Castle, Limerick
King John was the brother of Richard the Lionheart, associated with legends such as Robin Hood and the Knights of the Round Table. Built between 1200 and 1212 on an existing fortification, the castle was extended many times in subsequent years.
In 1642, the Great Siege devastated Limerick and King John’s Castle. Visitors can view the remains of a medieval garrison and soldiers’ quarters uncovered close to the sallyport area of the castle. It has a massive gatehouse, battlements and corner towers perfect for exploring, and a child-friendly, interactive visitor experience brings its turbulent history to life.
Leamaneh Castle, Clare
Leamaneh Castle is a ruined castle located between the villages of Corofin and Kilfenora on the border of the Burren. It consists of a 15th-century tower house and a 17th-century mansion, likely built by Toirdelbhach Donn MacTadhg Ó Briain, King of Thomond and a direct descendant of Brian Boru. His great-grandson Conor O’Brien married Máire ní Mahon, known as Máire Rua (“Red Mary”) for her flaming red hair.
Unlike many Irish castles, Leamaneh is unmaintained and, due to its poor state of repair, not accessible to visitors. It sits on privately owned land, but you can enjoy views of it from the nearby road.
Head into Lahinch afterwards and enjoy the long sandy beach, perfect for sandcastle-making, gentle paddling, or even a spot of surfing if you’re feeling brave.
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Lismore Castle, Waterford
While you can’t visit Lismore Castle itself, as it’s a private residence, you can visit and enjoy Lismore Castle Gardens, where two historic gardens sit within the castle walls, with spectacular views of the castle and surrounding countryside. You’ll find ancient yew tree avenues, romantic meadows, fruit and vegetable beds, formal long borders and plenty of flowers and plants, as well as pieces of contemporary sculpture.
Your garden ticket also gives you access to Lismore Castle Arts, a contemporary art gallery displaying temporary exhibitions of national and international artists.
Note: due to the historic nature of the gardens and the naturally steep terrain, not all paths are suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
Malahide Castle & Gardens, Dublin
Malahide Castle has a long and rich history and played a central role in medieval Irish history. The oldest parts date back to the 12th century. The estate was home to the Talbot family for almost 800 years, between 1185 and 1975 – the only exception being 1649–60, when Oliver Cromwell granted it to Miles Corbet following the Cromwellian conquest of Ireland. Corbet was hanged after Cromwell’s death, and the castle was restored to the Talbots. The building was notably enlarged in the reign of Edward IV, with towers added in 1765.
There’s plenty to do at Malahide Castle:
- Take a guided tour of the castle
- Explore the Walled Botanical Gardens
- See a centuries-old tree at the West Lawn
- Enjoy the shops and Avoca café at the Courtyard
- Visit the Butterfly House
- Have fun in the playground and exploring the grounds of the Demesne
Merlinpark Castle, Galway
Merlinpark Castle is a tower house and National Monument in Galway, built for Tairrdelbach Ua Conchobair (Turlough the Great), one of the last High Kings of Ireland, in the early 12th century.
Combine your visit to the castle with a walk in Merlin Woods and fun at Doughiska Playground.
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Nenagh Castle, Tipperary
Built around 1200, Nenagh Castle was the main seat of the Butler family until 1391, when they moved to Kilkenny, partly driven out by the native O’Kennedy clan and their allies. In 1336, a peace treaty was signed here between James Butler, 1st Earl of Ormond, and a representative of the O’Kennedy clan. Around 600 years later, the original treaty was presented as a gift to President Kennedy during his 1963 state visit to Ireland, and it’s now on view at the JFK Library in Massachusetts.
Nenagh Castle has a 100-foot-high cylinder-shaped keep with four storeys and stone spiral stairs to the top – 101 steps in all. Access to the tower is through a passageway within the base of the wall, with low headroom, so mind your head on the stone above. All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
The castle is generally open to visitors seasonally, with reduced access at other times of year.
Portumna Castle, Galway
Portumna Castle, on the shores of Lough Derg on the River Shannon, is an imposing example of early 17th-century Irish architecture. It was the main seat of the de Burgo family for over 200 years and marks the transition from the medieval tower house to the Renaissance-style manor house.
Following a fire and years of decline, the castle became just a shell, but restoration work by the Office of Public Works means the ground floor is now open to the public, housing an exhibition on the history and restoration of the building, along with a virtual reality presentation bringing the story to life.
The castle sits within formal gardens, with a walled kitchen garden and an old shrub rose garden helping recreate a sense of what it was like in the 17th century. Be sure to visit nearby Portumna Forest Park too, where you’ll find walks and forest trails, and might even spot a deer running through the trees.
Rock of Cashel, Tipperary
The Rock of Cashel, Carraig Phádraig or St. Patrick’s Rock, is also known as Cashel of the Kings. It’s said to be the site of the conversion of Aenghus, King of Munster, by St. Patrick in the 5th century AD. Long before the Norman invasion, it was the seat of the High Kings of Munster.
Two of the most famous figures in Irish legend and history are associated with the Rock of Cashel:
- St. Patrick, who according to legend arrived in Cashel in AD 432 and baptised King Aengus, making him Ireland’s first Christian ruler.
- Brian Boru, who was crowned High King here in 990 and is the only king to have united all of Ireland under one ruler for any significant period.
There’s a paid car park below the Rock and toilets on site, though no café. An audio-visual show, exhibitions and guided tours are all available.
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Rock of Dunamase, Laois
The Rock of Dunamase overlooks the valley of the O’Moores, just outside Portlaoise, County Laois. Spectacular views of the surrounding countryside made this a strategic place to build a fortress, and when the Normans arrived in Ireland, Dunamase became one of the most important Anglo-Norman strongholds in Laois.
Despite the castle’s ruined state, visitors can get a real sense of its former grandeur while taking in stunning views of the countryside. The Rock of Dunamase is maintained by the Office of Public Works and open to the public year-round.
Trim Castle, Meath
Did you know that Trim Castle in County Meath took more than 30 years to build, back in the 12th century? It’s the largest, best-preserved and most impressive Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland, and a fascinating place to explore. The castle is also famous as a backdrop to the Oscar-winning film Braveheart.
It does get busy during the summer months, so it’s best to visit earlier in the day. Access for visitors with disabilities is very restricted, and some of the stairs in the keep are steep and narrow, so hold onto smaller kids’ hands.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are all of these castles open to the public?
No. Some, like Ashford Castle and Classiebawn Castle, are privately owned or run as hotels, so you can only view them from outside or explore their surrounding gardens and grounds. Others, like Trim Castle and Blarney Castle, offer full guided tours and visitor experiences.
Which castles are best for younger children?
Castles with interactive visitor centres, folk parks or fairy trails tend to work best with younger kids – think Bunratty Castle, Malahide Castle and Ardgillan Castle, all of which combine history with playgrounds, animals or gardens to explore.
Do I need to book in advance?
Some castles, particularly those offering guided tours or seasonal experiences like Birr Castle and Claregalway Castle, are best booked ahead. It’s always worth checking the castle’s own website before you travel, as opening days and tour times vary through the year.
Are these castles accessible for buggies or wheelchairs?
Accessibility varies a lot from castle to castle. Several entries above note specific access restrictions – ruined castles and those with original medieval stairs, like Donegal Castle, Lismore Castle Gardens and Trim Castle, have limited or no wheelchair access.
Is it free to visit these castles?
It depends on the site. Some, like Enniskillen Castle’s Visitor Centre, are free to enter, while others charge an admission fee for tours or exhibitions. Check directly with each castle for current pricing before you go.
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With so many castles to choose from, bookmark this article and come back to it whenever you’re planning your next adventure. Ireland’s castles make for a brilliant free or low-cost day out, rain or shine.
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