For those interested in history and regal architecture, Ireland’s capital is a must-see. You can see Dublin Castle, Trinity College buildings, and the massive St. Patrick’s Cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century. However, a day trip outside castles in dublin allows you to tour multiple castles. Make sure to visit as many of these around castles in dublin ireland as your schedule permits, as they range from gorgeous ruins to historic landmarks.
castles around dublin ireland
1. Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny Castle can be reached from Dublin by traveling 130 km (80 miles) southeast. The Normans seized the high ground overlooking the River Nore when they built the fortress at the end of the 12th century. The dublin castle is one of the main attractions in the little city of Kilkenny. Since the castle’s grounds are open to the public free of charge, both residents and tourists love taking strolls in the surrounding forests and the rose gardens in front of the building. But if you’re in the area, you should also go inside to look at the magnificent Great Hall and a few tastefully decorated bedrooms.
2. Swords Castle
Only two miles north of Dublin’s center is Swords Castle, an international airport. The places to visit nearby castle was built for John Comyn, the first Archbishop of Dublin, sometime around 1200. Its pentagonal shape and significantly higher outer walls than typical for the era distinguish it. Swords Castle was occupied in subsequent years despite the appearance that it was severely damaged and abandoned in the fourteenth century. Swords Castle is currently a television show filming site. Still, visitors who wish to explore the outside can enter.
3. Charleville Castle
Tullamore, most known for producing whiskey, lies 90 minutes west of Dublin. Charleville Castle, a magnificent Gothic castle with deep historical origins, is also located there. The location was utilized for religious purposes as early as the sixth century by Druid communities. Earlier in the 1800s, the castle was constructed. The castle was only occupied by many of its occupants for brief periods, and significant restoration work wasn’t started until the 1970s. Nowadays, Charleville Castle is most recognized for the ghosts that live there! Numerous paranormal and investigative pieces have highlighted the castle, and ghost hunters lead many excursions around the grounds.
4. Birr Castle
The Irish capital lies only 140 kilometers (85 miles) immediately west of the little town of Birr in County Offaly. Unquestionably, Birr Castle is the main attraction of the city, even though the main street boasts a few quaint stores and eateries. A castle of some kind has stood on the site since the 12th century, although numerous additions made over time have contributed to the castle’s abundant appearance. The 7th Earl of Rosse still resides in portions of Birr Castle, which are still used for residential purposes. However, Birr Castle has other accessible areas to the general public, some of which even hold Ireland’s Historic Science Center.
5. Trim Castle
Trim Castle is the largest Norman castle in Ireland, located northwest of Dublin. It is the ideal day excursion to get away from the city and learn about Irish history because it is only 45 minutes from Dublin. Built over 30 years in the 12th century, Trim Castle was a significant military and religious location. Trim Castle even functioned as the location of parliament meetings in the fifteenth century, and a local mint on the grounds produced the money. Trim Castle is distinctive due to its size, age, and highly irregular 12th-century cruciform shape.
6. Rock of Cashel
The Rock of Cashel is a fascinating fortress in Ireland. It is approximately two hours from Dublin, but the trip is worth it. The location has some sinister origins since legend states St. Patrick drove Satan out of a cave. Although the current castle mainly dates from the 12th and 13th centuries, monarchs have inhabited the site for ages. The Round Tower, Cormac’s Chapel, and the 13th-century Cathedral are significant structures on the Rock of Cashel worth exploring.
7. Malahide Castle
Relatively nearby is Malahide Castle, which is located roughly 14 kilometers (9 miles) north of Dublin. Built-in Malahide during the 12th century, the castle is a great place to spend a few hours exploring because of its proximity to the city center. The castle was purchased by Ireland in the 1970s, following decades of occupancy as a private residence. Both the inside of the castle and its original grounds from the 18th century are open for exploration. Furthermore, following a stroll around the premises, you can order delicious meals in Malahide Castle’s smaller dining hall, an ideal gathering venue.
