17 of the Best Castles in Ireland You Should See

Are you heading to Ireland for a vacation and interested in soaking up the atmosphere and history of the Emerald Isle by visiting some castles?

If you were to search online, “How many castles are in Ireland?”, you might be surprised to learn that there are thought to be at least 30,000 throughout the country. As you'd imagine, with the long and checkered past that Ireland has, some of these castles are big and stunning, like Kilkenny Castle, Dublin Castle, and Slane Castle, while others are not in nearly as good condition, like Kinbane Castle and Dunluce Castle, that are incredible in their way.

To help you decide which castles in Ireland to visit during your trip, we have compiled a guide to some must-visit places.

1. Cabra Castle, County Cavan

Cabra Castle Hotel in Ireland is first on our list with good reason, especially if you like a side order of frights with your castle accommodation. It was once voted the world's second scariest hotel by users on TripAdvisor. 

The spooky stories of the castle, first built in 1699, date back at least as far as the 1780s, when a servant girl, Sarah, was hanged as a result of her affair with the owner's son. Others have reported seeing a man in military attire and a horse and carriage in the courtyard. Even if you are not interested in that side of things, the spectacular castle hotel is excellent, with a lot of old-world charm. There are more than 100 acres of gardens and parklands.

2. McDermott's Castle, County Roscommon

McDermott Castle in Ireland is another great castle to visit for breathtaking views. It is located in County Roscommon by Lough Key Waters. 

There are more than 30 islands here, but only one, called Castle Island, is home to McDermott Castle. The protected monument was built on a site used for fortification since the 13th century. However, the tower house was constructed later in the 16th century, with most of the building in its current form dating to the 1800s.

3. Kilkenny Castle, County Kilkenny

Located in County Kilkenny, Kilkenny Castle is one of the best-loved abandoned castles in Ireland. It is featured in many other guides to the best Irish castles. It was initially built in 1195 to protect River Nore because the waters were shallow enough to allow enemies to get through on foot.

In 1967, the castle was given to the locals for the price of £50, and it has become a popular tourist destination with some stunning, pretty gardens ideal for strolling around on a lazy afternoon.

4. Blarney Castle, Cork

In many travelogues, one of the most incredible castles in Ireland is often referred to as nothing more than a tourist trap. This is a real shame because this castle has so much to offer. Many people will go to see the infamous Blarney Stone, though that is why many people are disappointed. Blarney Castle has more than a unique stone that allows anyone to chat like an Irish person. There is an extraordinary array of gardens and grounds to walk around.

If that weren't enough, there is the only poison garden in Ireland, the Magic Steps, where wishes are granted, and the Witch's kitchen.

5. Ashford Castle, County Mayo

We have already mentioned one great castle you can stay in. Did you know, though, that there are several 5-star castle hotels in Ireland? One that offers all the antiques, old portraits and artwork, suits of armor, doormen, turrets, and open fires you could ask for is Ashford Castle. A lot of the castle was first built around 800 years ago, and many of its original features are still visible inside and outside.

Aside from the stunning architecture, there are various things you can do in and around the castle, like sit in a private cinema or spa, enjoy a fireside afternoon tea, or go for a stroll through the wooded areas around the castle. If you want, boat trips are available that will take you along Lough Corrib.

6. Dublin Castle, Dublin

One of the most beautiful castles in Ireland is Dublin Castle in Dublin city center. This is built on an old Viking Fortress site, and work began on the impressive building in 1204. That was during the time that the Normans ruled over Dublin following their successful invasion in 1169. Construction on the castle was finished in 1230.

Sadly, only one section of the original structure remains – the Record Tower. Most of Dublin Castle's current architectural features were added in the 19th century.

7. Trim Castle, County Meath

If size impresses you, then you may be interested in finding the biggest castle in Ireland. That title goes to the rather magnificent ruins of Trim Castle in County Meath. It is located at River Boyne's shores and has been standing over that area since 1176. The name Trim Castle is from the Irish phrase Baile Atha Troim, which means “Town of the Ford of the Elder Trees,” which makes sense, as this was a crucial fording point on the river.

This Anglo-Norman castle covers an imposing 30,000 square meters. Braveheart, the Academy Award-winning film starring Mel Gibson, features the castle in many shots. Tours are available of the castle's grounds and one of its ancient towers.

8. Bunratty Castle, County Clare

As you can see, there are many to see throughout the country, but one of the best castles in western Ireland is Bunratty Castle in County Clare. This is popular with tourists thanks partly to its ease of access from Shannon Airport. This is the site of many invasions and battles and was regularly frequented by Vikings back in 970. It's hard not to feel a sense of awe when you gaze up at its stunning and imposing walls.

As it currently stands, Bunratty Castle was constructed in 1425, and it is one of the few castles in Ireland that is still in its most complete condition despite its age.

9. Kinbane Castle, County Antrim

One of the things you will notice if you travel around the country enough is that many castles are built into the side of cliffs, sitting in ruins. That is precisely the case with one of the best castles to visit in Northern Ireland, Kinbane Castle, which stands on a small peninsula that sticks out onto the sea called Kinbane Head. This castle was built about 1547, and while it is not much more than ruins now, it is still worth checking out while you take the Causeway Coastal Route.

As the castle ruins are very isolated by their location, only a few visitors visit daily, which means you can enjoy peace. At the same time, you take in the breathtaking scenery and views over into the water.

10. Dromoland Castle, County Clare

You may be looking for the best castle hotels in Ireland. One that fits that bill is Dromoland Castle in County Clare. There is nothing that screams anything less than five-star in this castle that was recently refurbished for 20 million euros. There are stained-glass windows, paintings, antiques, and suits of armor galore, and the chance to enjoy some stunning drinks at the Cocktail Bar or open-fire afternoon tea sessions.

If you want to venture outside, there are many activities, including golf, horse-riding, falconry walks, boat trips, and fishing. Do you still need more? There is a leisure center, spa, and pool.

11. The Rock of Cashel, County Tipperary

Cashel Castle in Ireland is one you will have seen on various Irish postcards at some point. Sometimes, it is known as The Rock of Cashel and other times as Saint Patrick's Rock. The myth surrounding the castle is that the Patron Saint of Ireland converted King Aenghus at the castle during the 5th century.

You don't have to get close to admire it, as it can be seen quickly when you enter the town, but you can take guided tours around the castle.

Intriguingly, while the structures still standing today originate from the 12th and 13 centuries, the castle's site stretches further back.

12. Lismore Castle, County Waterford

Lismore Castle in County Waterford is one of Ireland's most overlooked but best castles that are forgotten because of the more popular sites. Prince John constructed Lismore Castle in 1185 to protect the river that runs close to it, and it was the original home of Lismore Abbey. 

Nowadays, the castle is the home of many beautiful gardens that cover 7 acres. You can spend a long while wandering through the gardens while enjoying the perfect vistas of its impressive structure and architecture. Although not a frugal choice, the castle can be privately rented.

13. Ross Castle, County Killarney

One of the most beautiful castles in Ireland is Ross Castle in County Killarney. Built-in the 15th century, it stands at the edge of a pretty lake and is close to the equally impressive Muckross Abbey. One of the reasons why this is such a famous castle and worth mentioning is that it lies within the amazing Killarney National Park. The O'Donoghue Mor (Ross) built the castle. It is said O'Donoghue lives in a grand palace at the bottom of the lake where he can keep an eye on everything. It is believed every seven years, on the first morning in May, his spirit circles around the lake on the back of a white horse.

14. Carrickfergus Castle, County Antrim

Originally built by John de Courcy in 1177, Carrickfergus Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Ireland. Sitting on the Belfast Lough shores, it saw its fair share of action. The castle was seized by King John in 1210, and in 1689, it was involved in the Siege of Carrickfergus, which lasted for a whole week.

Then, further down the line, it was looted by French invaders in 1760 and, in 1797, was used to confine prisoners of war. You can walk around the castle and get a sense of what it used to be like when it was an important stronghold during medieval times.

15. Belfast Castle, Belfast

Another of the most beautiful castles in Ireland is the fairytale-esque Belfast Castle, found on Cave Hill County Park's lower slope. A visit to Belfast Castle not only offers you the chance to explore and marvel at its Scottish Baronial architecture, but you can also enjoy perfect vistas of Belfast and look out for the rarest plant in Belfast, the Town Hall Clockto, and animals such as sparrowhawks and long-eared owls.

16. Cahir Castle, County Tipperary

One of the most incredible castles in Ireland is Cahir Castle in County Tipperary. This was built between the 13th and 15th centuries and was a stronghold for the Butler family. It sits on a craggy island in the River Suir and is considered one of Ireland's best-preserved castles.

What makes this castle impressive is that it was designed to be a cutting-edge defensive building, and throughout its history, it has been rebuilt, renovated, and extended. The castle as it stands now was completed in 1599.

When you visit Cahir Castle, you get a chance to soak up the history and heritage of the structure.

17. King John's Castle, Limerick

Another of the coolest castles in Ireland is King John's Castle, which is found on King's Island within Limerick City and offers stunning views of Shannon River. Just like the earlier Dublin Castle, King John's Castle was built on a former Viking fortress site.

King John ordered that the castle be built in 1200, and it holds the prestigious title of one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Europe.

Final Thoughts

If you are heading to the Emerald Isle and looking for something to do to get a sense of the country's history, our guide to the best castles in Ireland will help. We have tried to showcase a wide range but may have missed some great choices. Therefore, please let us know if you think we have it in the comments section below.