Irish Castles 5 of the best

Ireland is renowned for its history and culture, so it should come as no surprise to learn that the country is filled with incredible castles, some still in use and many so old that they are merely ruins. Regardless of condition, one thing is for certain, the castles of Ireland are a portal into times gone by and offer up an insight into the lives of our ancestors

KILKENNY CASTLE

Kilkenny Castle is as historical and culturally rich as they come. A 12th century castle remodelled in Victorian times, Kilkenny Castle overlooks Kilkenny town and the River Nore, and serves as a brilliant reminder of the influence of the Normans. The castle was built in 1195 for William Marshal, the 4th Earl of Pembroke. Following this, the castle was sold to the powerful Butler family, who would inhabit the castle until 1935. In 1967 the castle was given to the nation, and since then it has emerged as one of Ireland’s best-loved tourist destinations. Every year thousands flock to the castle, and on a sunny day in Kilkenny you can be sure to see revellers enjoying an ice cream on the Castle’s beautiful grounds.

ASHFORD CASTLE

Located in County Mayo, along the west coast of Ireland, Ashford Castle dates to medieval and Victorian times, but has been repurposed into a five-star luxury hotel on the shore of Lough Corrib, one of Ireland’s most beautiful lakes. Previously owned by the Guinness family, Ashford Castle is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World Organization and consistently ranks among Ireland’s best luxury hotels.

A stay at Ashford Castle guarantees comfort, luxury and a whole lot of relaxation. Gourmet food, tennis, golf, a spa, and cinema access are all available. Visitors can even go fishing in Lough Corrib should they wish. Ashford Castle is a must-visit for anyone and especially for fans of The Quiet Man who want to visit nearby Cong, where the movie was filmed.

CASTLE LESLIE (and previous page)

Located in County Monaghan, Castle Leslie has been home to the Leslie family since 1665, when Bishop of Clogher John Leslie bought the castle from Thomas Rideway. Throughout the intervening years, the family stayed involved and are still managers of the estate.

Today, Castle Leslie is also home to one one of Ireland’s grandest hotels which promises out of this world luxury. Think rooms without TVs, filled with antique furniture and decorated to a different style. So whether you want to avail of the private cinema, or enjoy a game of poker, Castle Leslie will have something for you. Throw into the mix the 1000-acre estate, renowned for its equestrian facilities, and it’s easy to see how Castle Leslie offers a “complete respite from the world.”

BUNRATTY CASTLE

Simply put, Bunratty Castle is one of Ireland’s premier heritage sites, and is a truly authentic medieval fortress, the likes of which are increasingly hard to find.

Built in 1425 and restored in 1954, the castle has the furnishings of a medieval building, tapestries and all. Visitors will be delighted to know that they can have a banquet and feast of their own in the castle.

A trip to Bunratty Castle is not complete without making sure you have a stroll through The Folk Park, an “open air museum” that offers an incredible insight into what life was like in 19th century Ireland. The Folk Park is a true to life reconstruction and includes a village street, fairy village and a walled garden which will be sure to have you awestruck upon visiting.

ROCK OF CASHEL

A cursory glance at the Rock of Cashel may not evoke wonder, but upon further inspection viewers will realize that it might just be the finest castle site that Ireland has to offer. Located in County Tipperary, the Rock of Cashel dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries and was believed to have been the residence for the Kings of Munster. Anyone with even the slightest of interests in Irish heritage and history will surely enjoy a visit.

The Rock of Cashel is a crucial archaeological site, the original cross of St. Patrick can be found on site, as well as the ruins of a Romanesque chapel.

Visitors to the site will be treated with an amazing audio-visual show and access to the museum.