Popular Irish Castles

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The beautiful Irish countryside is full of luxurious and historical castles, which draw visitors from all across the globe. Here's a look at some of the popular castles that remain a majestic testimony of the rich history of Ireland.

The castles of Ireland give one a glimpse of Ireland's rich history and the grandeur associated with the architecture. The luxurious and glorious castles can truly make you feel like a royal when you enter these structures. It's their sheer brilliance in architecture, which has mainly held our fascination about these buildings.

Antrim Castle

It was built between the years, 1610 to 1666, by Sir John Clotworthy. Sadly, a major portion of this castle caught fire in the year 1922 during a grand ball. This led to the destruction of the castle. Today, the gardens remain to be a very popular tourist destination.

Harry Avery's Castle

The curious construction of this monument is probably what makes people interested in it. The Harry Avery's castle is situated south west of Newtownstewart, County Tyrone in Northern Ireland. It has 2-story rectangular shaped construction, with massive twin towers that are D shaped. It was named after Henry Aimbreidh O' Neil (Harry Avery O' Neil).

Ashford Castle

Set on the Northern shores of Lough Corrib, this one of the many Irish castles that stands as a luxurious hotel since 1939. The Anglo-Norman de Burgos family built it in the 13th century.

Castle Durrow

It is also now a luxurious hotel since 1998, providing the much-needed respite from the city life for the privileged few. This castle was built between the years 1712-1716 by Colonel William Flower.

Castle Coole

This was built during the years 1789 and 1798. Designed by James Wyatt, it is now one of the most treasured castles. The design is neo classical and it has been reopened for the public since the year 2006. It is located in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh.

Castleknock Castle

It lies in the grounds of the Castleknock college in Castleknock which is located in Dublin, Ireland.

The castle is almost in ruins and the only remains that remain are a part of the polygonal shaped keep. This castle sadly faced destruction after it was dismantled following the Civil War of 1641.

Blarney Castle

It is the most visited by tourists all throughout the year, and is located near Cork, Ireland. The origins of this castle can be safely said to be before AD 1200. The Stone of Eloquence or the Blarney stone lies on top of the castle, which has many legends to it.

Dublin Castle

The Dublin Castle faced destruction due to fire in the late 17th century, it has been restored back in its original glory. It was first founded in the year 1204 upon the orders of King John. Now, it is the venue for Ireland's Presidential Inaugurations and other Stately functions.

Ross Castle

It is located on the beautiful shores of the Lough Leane in the Killarney National Park, which is in County Kerry, Ireland. It was built in the mid 1400s.

Today, this castle is restored and one can enjoy the beautiful boat rides on the lake in the summer season. There are various legends associated with this castle and the ancestors of this place, the O'Donoghue clan.

Bunratty Castle

The Bunratty remains one of the major tourist attractions today. The spiral stairways and dangerous dungeons form one of the major attractions of this monument.

It lies in the central area of the Bunratty village and was built in the 15th century. This medieval fortress has luxurious and elaborately styled rooms. Some of the first dwellers that lived out here were the Vikings. One can get a gorgeous view from the top of the castle of the estuary and the airport area.

Cahir Castle

This is one of the largest castles that are found in Ireland. The Cahir castle is situated on a rocky island, in the Suir River.

Conor O'Brien, the Prince of Thomond, built it in the year 1142. There was a specific tower that was connected to a river, which was the main source of water in the ancient days.

Audley's Castle

The Audley castle is located near Strangford, County Down. This lies in the Northern areas of Ireland. The beautiful Irish countryside is dotted with many castles like the Audley castle. Built in the 15th century, the Audley castle has an unmistakable tower. A thin wall that has a simple gate encloses this tower.

Belfast Castle

The Belfast castle lies on the slopes on the Cave Hill. It is about 400 ft above sea level. One of the reasons why tourists flock to the Belfast castle is the stunning view that one can see of the city of Belfast and the Belfast Lough.

This castle was completed in 1870 after a wooden castle was destroyed in a fire, which was also built on this site. It was designed by Charles Lanyon and his son for the 2nd Marquess of Donegall. This place deserves a visit and its antiques shop also remains to be a major attraction for many people who flock to the Belfast castle from all around the globe.