Ireland is scattered with castles, many dating back more than 1,000 years. Some were built to protect families from neighbouring clans; others were used as fortresses against the British.
All are steeped in tradition and have a wealth of stories to tell. These are some of the major castles you’ll find on your travels through Ireland.
Ashford Castle
Converted into a 5 star luxury hotel and voted the third best resort in Europe by Condé Nast Traveller.
Blarney Castle
The Earl of Leicester was commanded by Queen Elizabeth I to take possession of the castle.
Charleville Forest Castle
Supposedly haunted by a young girl called Harriet, the youngest daughter of the third Earl of Charleville.
Kilkenny Castle
This Anglo-Norman stone castle shows the power of the medieval Norman occupation of Ireland.
Kylemore Abbey
A gift from a newlywed man for his wife.
Powerscourt Estate
In 1844, Mervyn Wingfield inherited the Powerscourt estate when he was just 8 years old.