Top 16 Castles in Clare
Castles in Clare offer a journey through Ireland's rich history, with numerous sites ranging from well-preserved medieval fortresses to dramatic ruins. County Clare, located on Ireland's west coast, features a diverse landscape that includes the Burren and the Wild Atlantic Way, providing scenic backdrops for its historical structures. The region is dotted with approximately 220 identified castle sites, many of which are accessible for exploration. These historical landmarks provide insights into centuries of Irish heritage and architectural evolution.
Best castles in Clare
- The most popular castles is Bunratty Castle, a castle that is arguably Ireland's most complete and authentically restored medieval fortress. It is the centerpiece of the Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, offering an immersive heritage experience.
- Another must-see spot is Newtown Castle, a castle. This unique cylindrical tower house, dating from the 16th century, is now home to the Burren College of Art.
- Visitors also love Carrigaholt Castle, a five-story tower house built around 1480 by the McMahon clan. It offers commanding views over the Shannon Estuary.
- Clare is known for its medieval fortresses, tower houses, and historic ruins. Visitors can explore a variety of castles, from those offering guided tours and banquets to those providing dramatic photographic opportunities.
- The castles in Clare are appreciated by the komoot community, with 29 upvotes and 40 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Doonagore Castle
Highlight • Castle
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doonagore_Castle
de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doonagore_Castle
“… The castle is a private holiday home and not open to the public. …”
National Inventory of Architectural Heritage (Doonnagore Castle, DOONNAGORE, CLARE, 2023-02-23):
buildingsofireland.ie/buildings-search/building/20400823/doonnagore-castle-doonnagore-clare
“Reg No 20400823 ...”
maps.archaeology.ie/historicenvironment/?REG_NO=20400823
Tip by
Bunratty Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Carrigaholt Castle
Highlight • Castle
This impressive tower house was built around 1480 by the McMahon family and has dominated the skyline of the fishing village of Carrigaholt ever since. Although the interior is not accessible, it is definitely worth taking a close look at the robust exterior walls and the old courtyard. Enjoy the views over the Shannon Estuary and discover the rich history of this strategic stronghold on the Loop Head Peninsula.
Showing Translation
Tip by
Newtown Castle
Highlight • Castle
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newtown_Castle
de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newtown_Castle
Newtown Castle (2023-02-23):
newtowncastle.com
FACEBOOK (Newtown Castle, 2023-02-23):
facebook.com/newtowncastle
Tip by
Dromore Castle
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
Gleninagh Castle
Highlight • Castle
Showing Translation
Tip by
Ballinalacken Castle
Highlight • Castle
MORE INFORMATION ON THE CASTLE & HOTEL:
ballinalackencastle.com
Translated by Google •
Tip by
View of Muckinish West Tower House
Highlight • Castle
Showing Translation
Tip by
Mooghaun Hill Fort and Tower House
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Leamaneh Castle
Highlight • Castle
Even her husband did not escape her wrath. Mary would often ride with her husband at the head of his troops, but when one skirmish went tragically wrong, she displayed more steel than anyone could imagine possible. O’Brien was extremely vocal in his criticism of Cromwell, leading Parliamentarian General Henry Ireton, also Cromwell’s son-in-law, to send five men to shoot him. Although the attack was not fatal, Conor was wounded. Mary retaliated by ordering the man to be captured, after which she had him hanged. Perhaps mindful of the dangers of provoking such a powerful enemy, she advised her sons to surrender to Parliament, but Conor once again made a move against Ireton. A battle at the pass of Inchecroghnan resulted in Conor being wounded severely. As his soldiers brought him back to the castle, Mary is said to have shut the gates. It is recorded that far from showing sympathy, Mary shouted at them from the top of the tower, saying, ‘What do I want with dead men here?’
theirishplace.com/heritage/red-mary-ghost-leamaneh-castle
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more castles in Clare.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Clare
Lough Derg Way
East Clare Way – exploring Ireland’s hidden heart
Aran Islands
Rugged rides of Ireland – Clare Figure 8
Discover beautiful Ireland – cycle end-to-end from Mizen to Malin
Wild and pristine – hiking along western Ireland’s cliffs & islands
Follow the water - Along Ireland's rivers and lakes
Discover Ireland's unspoilt nature in its national parks
Discover Ireland's past – historical walks on the Emerald Isle
Between waves and peaks — to the best views in Ireland
Other adventures in Clare
Tips from the Community
You get a lot for your money. Impressive Castle and large Folk Park.
0
0
Located on a narrow spit of land between Ballyvaughan and the N67, the ruin forms a dramatic silhouette against the backdrop of the grey Burren hills and the changing tides of the bay.
3
0
Gleninagh Castle is an impressive 16th-century L-shaped tower house that majestically overlooks Galway Bay. A former stronghold of the O'Loughlin clan, it is built from the characteristic limestone of the Burren and remains in remarkably good condition. Beside the castle ruins, you will find a small medieval church, a holy well, and a circular 'fullacht fiadh' (cooking place). The contrast between the robust structure and the bare, grey karst landscape makes this a fascinating historical anchor point along the northern coast of County Clare.
6
0
Carrigaholt Castle: A 15th-century sentinel on the Shannon This impressive tower house was built around 1480 by the McMahon family and has dominated the skyline of the fishing village of Carrigaholt ever since. Although the interior is not accessible, it is definitely worth taking a close look at the robust exterior walls and the old courtyard. Enjoy the views over the Shannon Estuary and discover the rich history of this strategic stronghold on the Loop Head Peninsula.
6
0
route on the state road and the ruin is located on private property I DO NOT RECOMMEND
0
0
A large, completely hollow limestone castle, even the window frames are made of limestone (built in the 15th century by the O'Brians, rebuilt in the 17th century). A very impressive ruin. On private land.
0
0
If you turn towards the coast and follow the small path, you will reach Gleninagh Castle. This L-shaped tower castle from the 16th century sits right on the edge of the Burren and offers a wide view over Ballyvaughan Bay. The castle was once a strategic outpost of the powerful O'Loughlin family, who controlled the region until the late 19th century. An ideal place to get off your bike for a moment, enjoy the impressive location and let the tranquility of this historic tower work its magic on you. The area around the castle, with its mixture of coast and rugged cliffs, offers a varied scenery. Especially on the bike, you get a feeling of traveling back in time, while the barren but fascinating landscape of the Burren offers the perfect backdrop for a relaxing break.
0
0
Bunratty Castle is a landmark on the route between Limerick and Ennis. Arriving here by bike is almost like travelling through time - the mighty castle rises imposingly at the side of the road, while the surrounding flowerbeds give the place a lively feel. The name Bun Raite refers to the nearby mouth of the River Ratty, which once gave the place importance. The area around the castle has its own charm. Although Bunratty Castle has seen many upheavals in its history, the architecture is impressively well preserved. It is worth stopping for a moment to look at the details - the massive walls and small windows give you an idea of what life must have been like here centuries ago. The cycle route through the village is also pleasant and quiet, although the traffic around the castle sometimes requires a little attention. A detour to the adjacent Bunratty Folk Park is also an option to get an even deeper sense of Ireland's past. Here you can imagine how people in the past lived their everyday lives – and maybe this is the perfect inspiration for the next section of your bike tour.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles in Clare are best for families?
For a comprehensive family experience, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is highly recommended, offering an immersive look at medieval life and 19th-century rural Ireland. Newtown Castle, home to the Burren College of Art, and Dysert O'Dea Castle, with its archaeology center and trail, also offer engaging visits for families.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in Clare?
County Clare's castles are often surrounded by beautiful landscapes perfect for outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, general cycling tours, and running trails throughout the region. For example, the area around Carrigaholt Castle offers scenic cycling loops like the Kilkee Cliffs to Loop Head. Many castles, like Dromore Castle, are set within woodlands with trails to explore.
Are there any castles in Clare that offer unique historical experiences like medieval banquets?
Historically, Bunratty Castle and Knappogue Castle were renowned for their medieval banquets, offering a four-course meal with traditional entertainment. While banquets at Bunratty were reportedly closed in 2022 and Knappogue's status may vary, these castles still provide rich historical experiences through guided tours and exploration of their well-preserved interiors and grounds.
What is the best time of year to visit castles in County Clare?
The best time to visit castles in County Clare is generally during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is milder, and the crowds are smaller. Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather and longest daylight hours, but also the highest number of visitors. Visiting in winter can offer a dramatic, atmospheric experience, though some sites may have reduced opening hours or be temporarily closed.
Which castles in Clare offer the best photographic opportunities?
For stunning photographs, Dunguaire Castle, perched on Galway Bay, offers picturesque coastal views. Doonagore Castle, with its iconic silhouette overlooking the Atlantic, is another highly photographed site. The dramatic ruins of Leamaneh Castle, visible from the roadside, also provide excellent photographic subjects, especially for those exploring the Burren.
Are there any castles in Clare that are wheelchair accessible?
While many historic sites in Clare present accessibility challenges due to their age and structure, some modern visitor centers and ground-level areas of larger attractions may offer better accessibility. It's advisable to check directly with individual castle sites like Bunratty Castle & Folk Park for specific accessibility information before your visit.
Can I visit castles in Clare using public transport?
Public transport options vary by castle. Bunratty Castle is conveniently located near Shannon Airport and is generally accessible by bus routes connecting major towns. For other castles, especially those in more rural areas like Leamaneh Castle or Carrigaholt Castle, public transport may be limited, and a car might be necessary for easy access.
What are some lesser-known or 'hidden gem' castles in County Clare?
Beyond the major attractions, County Clare has several intriguing lesser-known castles. Dromore Castle, nestled within a managed forest, offers a peaceful exploration of 16th-century ruins. Newtown Castle, a unique cylindrical tower house, also provides a distinct experience away from the larger crowds.
Are there any castles in Clare that are still inhabited or operate as hotels?
Yes, Dromoland Castle, the ancestral home of the O'Briens, has been transformed into a luxurious 5-star hotel. While public access to the interior is typically for guests or diners, its grounds and walled garden can often be explored. Doonagore Castle is privately owned and inhabited periodically, though not open to the public.
What kind of historical significance do the castles in Clare hold?
The castles in Clare are steeped in Irish history, reflecting centuries of clan power struggles, invasions, and cultural evolution. Many, like Bunratty Castle and Knappogue Castle, were built by powerful families like the MacNamaras and O'Briens. Sites like Leamaneh Castle are linked to local folklore and figures like Máire Rua MacMahon, while Dunguaire Castle played a role in Ireland's literary revival.
Are there walking trails or archaeological sites near Dysert O'Dea Castle?
Yes, Dysert O'Dea Castle is not just a castle but also the starting point for a 5km archaeological trail. This trail leads visitors to 25 different historical sites, offering a comprehensive exploration of the area's rich heritage, including a high cross and church ruins.
What can I expect when visiting <strong><a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/312121" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Carrigaholt Castle</a></strong>?
Carrigaholt Castle is a five-story tower house built around 1480 by the McMahon clan. It offers commanding views over the Shannon Estuary and has a turbulent history, including a siege by the Earl of Thomond. While largely a ruin, it provides a mystical and atmospheric experience, perfect for photography and reflecting on ancient times.
Most popular routes in Clare
Most popular attractions in Clare
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Didn’t find what you were looking for?
Explore Clare’s best castles region by region:
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides in Clare:
