If you have plans of travelling to Ireland, I would like you to know that it is indeed a country that brings history to the present. Here one can see the remains of legends and fairy tales, castles are like mighty guards of history. Walking through their stony halls, looking at the sky-tickling towers, you can plunge into the middle ages and feel like a real king or a queen surrounded by knights and beautiful princesses. That is why I have prepared for you the list of the 10 castles you should not miss out. All three are soaked in history, romance, and mystery.
Carrickfergus Castle
Closely connected to the previous step is the description of the first meeting with history. Carrickfergus Castle, which began as the stronghold of Northern baron John de Courcy in 1177, has been through several wars as well as knight besieges. The Normans, Scots, Irish, and the English have all defended this place as have utilized it as a foremost stronghold within the military history of Ireland. The way to this castle felt like the starting of a time machine, every single corner has a story to tell.
Site Seeing Attractions at the Carrickfergus Castle
During the visit to Carrickfergus Castle, I was fascinated with its thick walls, later medieval tower keep, and such chambers. The history of armor and weapons was more felt walking through the exhibition inside the old weapons warehouse with displays of historical weapons and soldiers’ uniforms. Being on the top of the towers, the views of Belfast Lough are truly stunning, and I felt like a rightful guard standing on the towers of a medieval castle.
Information for Your Visit
Carrickfergus Castle is accessible all year round, but the time to visit may be checked by season. The entrance fee should be seen as a mere change thrown into the fountain for the privilege of stepping into Ireland’s history. Therefore, it is advisable to check on the visiting hours before paying a visit to increase efficiency on the time spent.
Slane Castle
The Countess; or, An Emblem of Irish Elegance. Slane Castle is a marvelous building located in the middle of Ireland by the River Boyne flowing physically in the middle of the castle. It has been serving its purpose for 300 years and more and has been a mute spectator to the developments in Ireland. From the Conyngham’s firm hold in the 18th century to the present day, extravagant, and private venue, Slane Castle has continued holding Ireland’s interest.
Site Seeing Attractions at Slane Castle
This site has been garnishing a lot of attention from many visitors and tourists as one of the best historical and architectural Ireland Sites to visit. Some of the things that one can see at Slane Castle include:
At Slane Castle, for instance, I got the impression that I was in for a different kind of experience, of a different age perhaps. Self-contained Victorian furniture and picturesque subjects of the rooms were rather impressive. They bought the unique architectural masterpiece in the Gothic chapel and left me almost spellbound. The grand and well-planned gardens provided calm, the touch of nature one could say, away from the busy world. While for the whiskey enthusiasts, the distillery of the Slane Irish Whiskey located in the castle is definitely a must-see.
Useful Things You Need to Know for Your Stay
Famous for its wine and spirits making, Slane Castle features tourist tours year-round that reveal all the legends and features of the castle. Having a cafeteria and gift shop within the center makes it possible for one to spend the whole day within this castle. There is no better memento than starting a collection of some of the items sold in this symbolic place.
Kilkenny Castle
Stone went on to become a fortress of medieval power making it an important source of information on how medieval power was built. Kilkenny Castle, which has its roots in the 12th century, served as the hub of medieval political and military activity. The tall towers and strong stone walls have seen decades of conflict, struggle, and ruling for many years. Actually, while wandering through this castle, I literally felt that one can hear the sounds of knights’ armor and the soft murmur of centuries-old secrets.
Sights to Look at When Visiting Kilkenny Castle
The grounds of the Kilkenny Castle are spacious and gravely, and there are magnificent prospects of the city from the gardens. Apropos, inside there are magnificent stoke-rooms and galleries furnished in keeping with the period. Other than the castle, I did enjoy viewing paintings at the Portrait Gallery that features the Butler family that was the castle’s previous owners.
Visiting Kilkenny Castle
Visitors can tour Kilkenny Castle all year round, but the operating time may slightly change during summer and winter. General admission covers the castle and garden, and one may pay a little less if one is a student or comes with family. It is better to seek this information on the official website as it can contain the latest information.
Trim Castle
The Norman Giant. Trim Castle is a Norman castle that was constructed in the 12th century by Hugh de Lacy; it is one of the largest castles in Ireland. Because of the influence of time and wars, this splendid structure has become the witness of the history of Ireland today. The place is the administrative capital to one of the oldest kingdoms in Ireland, the kingdom of Meath, and its splendor cannot be rivaled.
Things to do in Trim Castle
The attraction of Trim Castle is in towers, walls, and moats still preserved in the structure of the castle. Exploring the magnificent corridors of this building, I found the Irish nobility bedrooms. An interesting tour is complemented by an entertaining and informative part given by an interactive exhibition that reveals the history of the castle and medieval life.
Visit Trim Castle
Trim Castle is simple to access since it is only a forty-five-minute drive from Dublin. Text expeditions are possible at any time of the year and add a historical background to your experience. Do not leave the house without a camera, as the vistas are great from the keep, especially at night.
Ward Castle
A Fan’s Dream. The Ward Castle, perhaps more familiar to the younger generation rearing from the Game of Thrones as Winterfell, is indeed a monumental construction residing in County Down. The building with a slate-grey coloring and pointed towers is an 18th-century construction that strictly corresponds to the Georgian structure. As for me, a fan of the ’Game of Thrones’, walking around the Ward Castle was an absolutely incredible experience.
Site Seeing Attractions at Ward Castle
The buildings as well as the gardens have been rightly noted to be some of the primary attractions. These include strolling through the brown green meadows, sighting the lake, and being disoriented in the hedge maze. Among the pleasant bonuses, there was an indoor exhibition devoted to the series and representing replicas of costumes and weapons used in the show. Being in the workshop where I was taught how to use the bow and arrow by the experienced persons in the set up of castle was really an interesting experience to remember, especially when Jon Snow taught Bran Stark in the same courtyard.
Tourism at Castle Ward
Exploring the expressive and beautiful architecture of Ward Castle is one hundred percent worth spending time at the site because the tourist attraction comprises several activities, the primary one being the guided tours, and the second and third being the Game of Thrones experiences. Celebrations are planned for all seasons and people can practically always find something to do.
Blarney Castle
The Gift of Gab. As for architecture, one cannot mention Ireland without focusing on the fairy-tale Blarney Castle built back in the 13th century. Every tower, dungeon, and chamber has something to say. The garden surrounding the castle is filled with colors and various lovely plants and flowers, which makes it rather peaceful.
Why Visit Blarney Castle?
Blarney Castle is more than a knights’ construction, it is the place which shows the Irish history. It is stationary for the visitors to kiss the renowned Blarney Stone, which is believed to give anyone a good command in speaking. At the beginning, I could hardly trust it, but the result was really interesting and enjoyable.
Visit to Blarney Castle
It is suggested for tourists to spend at least half of the day to be able to tour around Blarney Castle and Municipality. It is a year-round establishment, and therefore recommended opening hours should be checked in advance. There is also a gift shop available detailing Celtic jewelry, and locally produced arts and crafts for souvenirs.
Dunguaire Castle
A Literary Haven. Dunguaire Castle is situated in the beautiful recreational area of Galway Bay and dates back to the sixteenth century; it is called after the semi-mythical King Guaire of Connacht. For many years it was occupied by poets, artists, and writers, which serves as the literary side of its history.
Sights to See at Dunguaire Castle
On arrival at Dunguaire Castle, the following are the things of interest that you will be able to witness:
The fifty-five meters height of the tower provides a great bird’s eye view of Galway Bay, and I was breathless by its view. Walking through the rooms of the castle, which were restyled and furnished in compliance with the interior of the 16th century, I had a pleasant impression. One of the significant events I enjoyed participating in was one of the medieval dinner shows where there is also a taste of some traditional Irish major dishes, songs, and poems.
Getting to Dunguaire Castle
Only a short drive from Galway city, Dunguaire Castle would make for a nice day trip. It is also possible to get there by bus, and this way you can view the exquisite beauty of Ireland’s nature.
Malahide Castle
A Noble Residence. Malahide Castle is one of the oldest manor houses in Ireland, built in the 12th century. The lords of Malahide were the Talbots for 780 years. From its medieval structures, and pleasing-to-the-eye gardens, to numerous portraits sourced from the National Gallery, this is definitely a place to visit.
Sights to See at Malahide Castle
Beautiful corridors and stately apartments that retained the setting of the period furniture and portraits were an added bonus. The serene area with a 260 acre, having the assortment of plants and flowers, gave the location a very calming nature. Deciding to choose the circle, I discovered more about the factual history of the castle and its inhabitants.
How to Visit Malahide Castle
Although Malahide Castle is open every day of the year, its operating times differ during summer and winter. It is advisable to check on this before planning for a visit to their office as seen on their official website. History lovers or people who look for beauty and elegance in the surrounding can definitely use this castle for their needs.
Cahir Castle
Forever are they arrayed against the stream: A Fortress on the River. Originally built during the thirteenth century, Cahir Castle stands majestically today on the River Suir in the County of Tipperary. Originally constructed by Conor O’Brien, Prince of Thomond, it was a significant stronghold until it was taken over by the English in the 16th century. Closely, the castle has remained standing for some time now, though it also has a chequered past.
Sights to See in Castle Cahir
The place of interest includes towers, walls, and medieval halls of Cahir Castle. The surrounding gardens are very impressive with views on River Suir and the Irish countryside. Throughout my exploration of the exhibits of the castle, I felt like I was part of the history they portray.
Visit Cahir Castle
With the fees being acceptable to the public, the site is open to the public throughout the year, and one gets charged less if he or she is a child. It is suggested that the traveler spend a minimum of two hours in the castle and the adjacent area. Do not leave your camera at home as there will be a lot to photograph at this historical location.
Dunluce Castle
A Ruined Beauty. Dunluce Castle, constructed during the Second Earl of Ulster in the early 13th century, was once inhabited by the McQuillan and MacDonnell clan. Rich in history owing to the associated aspects like sieges, battles, and several tragedies, it is well known among history enthusiasts. When I explored Dunluce Castle, I had this strong urge to be aware of how people lived in those days.
Things to Do at Dunluce Castle
Many characteristics of the initial construction are observed in the current state of the Dunluce Castle even though the castle is in ruins. The keep, the fortifications walls, entrance gate, and some of the remains of the old medieval town are of interest to visit. At the end, scenery with views of the Atlantic Ocean and cliffs of the north of Ireland were the absolute bonus.
Information for the Visit
Forced all the year round, Dunluce Castle has an entrance fee for the visitors. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes because most trails are irregular. Do not leave your camera at home as there are amazing pictures to take.
Conclusion: My Irish Castle Adventure
Visiting these castles, I was walking through one historical period after another, every castle showing a side of Ireland’s history. Beginning from the fortress-like structure of Carrickfergus, passing through the representative stately homes like Dunleath, to the quiet beauty of Slane, every castle captured my spirit. They are not only the past buildings; they are the past memories and peoples’ life stories which are so interesting here, just waiting for those who will be eager to reveal them. Hence, gather your things, and bring your curiosity, and follow the journey of the most beautiful and striking castles of Ireland. It is indeed a trip of your lifetime.