There are over 3,000 castles on the island of Ireland, which shine a spotlight on the country’s fascinating history and heritage, so wherever you’re staying, there is sure to be one nearby. Here are our suggestions for a selection of castles that are well worth a visit, as well as those that offer fairytale accommodation.

Birr Castle Demesne (courtesy Chris Hill)

Castles to visit

One of the most well-known castles in Ireland, and one of the most impressive, is medieval Blarney Castle in County Cork. Built in 1446 by the King of Munster, the castle is home to the famous Blarney Stone, which reputedly bestows the gift of the gab when kissed!

Blarney Castle © Tourism Ireland

Dublin Castle is at the heart of historic Dublin. It is one of the most important buildings in Irish history and the original fortification may have been an early Gaelic ring fort. Later a Viking fortress stood on the site. From 1204 until 1922 it was the seat of English, then British, rule in Ireland.

Situated in County Clare, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks, from the elegance of the 15th century medieval castle to the charm and authenticity of the village streets and farmhouses. Visit the castle before strolling through the folk park, where the characters and musicians bring to life the village as it was in the early 1900s.

Bunratty Castle © Chris Hill Photographic

Home to the Parsons family since 1620, Birr Castle Demesne in County Offaly boasts fascinating castle tours, stunning gardens with rare trees, the incredible 19th century Great Telescope and Ireland's Historic Science Centre showcasing major astronomical, engineering and photographic achievements.

On the windswept northern coast of Northern Ireland stands Dunluce Castle, one of the most picturesque and romantic of all Irish castles. With evidence of settlement from the first millennium, the present castle ruins date mainly from the 16th and 17th centuries.

Dunluce Castle © Chris Hill Photographic

Discover the enchantment of Hillsborough Castle and Gardens in County Down, where history comes alive amidst 100 acres of stunning landscapes. The castle sits on a grand Georgian estate and is the official residence of His Majesty the King in Northern Ireland. Delve into the heart of British and Irish history where pivotal moments and diplomatic efforts have taken place.

Step inside the walls of one of Limerick City’s most iconic landmarks, King John’s Castle, a 13th century fortress on the River Shannon. King John’s Castle brings to life over 800 years of history and visitors can climb the castle’s towers and turrets for breathtaking views across the city and towards the County Clare hills.

King John’s Castle, Limerick © Chris Hill Photographic

Few buildings in Ireland can boast a longer history of continuous occupation than Kilkenny Castle. Founded soon after the Norman conquest of Ireland, the castle has been rebuilt, extended and adapted to suit changing circumstances over a period of 800 years.

Castles to stay in

As well as the many, many castles open to the public to visit, plenty also offer the unmissable chance to sleep in your very own private fortress or to enjoy a lavish break in a luxury property.

When it comes to regal stays in Ireland, Ashford Castle may just take the crown. It ticks all the boxes, with a history going back 800 years, luxurious touches like silk wallpaper and four poster beds, and a sprawling country estate where you can try your hand at falconry or archery.

Falconry at Ashford Castle (photo credit: Emilia Jefremova for Tourism Ireland)

Barberstown Castle in County Kildare is a four-star castle and country house hotel. Built in the 13th century and just a 30-minute drive from Dublin Airport, visitors can expect a relaxing experience while enjoying great food and wine, open log fires and exceptional personal service.

Surrounded by 500 acres of unspoiled parklands, 16th Century Dromoland Castle Hotel in County Clare is steeped in a thousand years of eventful history, with a championship golf course, spa and a host of country pursuits on offer, just 8 miles from Shannon International Airport along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Dromoland Castle Hotel (photo credit: Dromoland Castle)

With its authentic interiors and old-style hospitality, Castle Leslie is the ultimate Irish rural escape. Located in County Monaghan, in 1,000 acres of undulating Irish countryside, the Castle Leslie Estate is dotted with ancient woodlands and glittering lakes - a stunningly beautiful and secluded retreat.

The best view of Ballynahinch Castle is from the riverside walk, where the 18th century building rises above the Owenmore river and is, on a clear day, perfectly mirrored in the water. The views from inside the castle are pretty good too, particularly if you choose a window table at breakfast, where you can enjoy the Connemara landscape.

Ballynahinch Castle Estate (photo credit: Galway County Council)

If you or your group would like to visit or stay in one of Ireland’s many fabulous castles, on a tailor-made tour of Ireland, please do contact our friendly team today. Or perhaps you would like to enjoy a dedicated heritage tour of Ireland? If so, we can help!