The Lesser Known Castles of Ireland

Written by Lulu O'Sullivan

Hi everyone. I hope I find you all well!. This week I'm taking us on a tour of some of Ireland's lesser known castles of which there are many dotted all over the country. Here's my top 5.

Ireland's Lesser Known Castles

Roscommon Castle
Luttrellstown Castle
Castlewellan Castle
Castle Roche
Clifden Castle

1. Roscommon Castle

Roscommon Castle. A medieval castle stands in the background against a bright blue sky, partially covered by clouds. In the foreground, a tranquil pond reflects the castle and surrounding greenery, including lush grass and tall reeds. Trees line the edges of the scene, adding to the serene landscape.

Roscommon Castle was built in 1269 by Robert De Ufford, Justiciar of Ireland. It was dismantled by Cromwellian “Ironsides” in 1652 and eventually burned down in 1690. The ruins of the castle are now open to the public. Attractions include the Hill o' Bones, a wildflower meadow, bird walk, lake feature and a children's playground.

2. Luttrellstown Castle

Luttrellstown Castle. A man and a woman stand on a green lawn in front of a large stone castle, conversing with another man who holds a bird of prey. The sky is partly cloudy, and flags are visible atop the castle. — © Dublin Falconry -Ireland's Content Pool

Luttrellstown Castle dates back to the early 15^th Century and is situated on the outskirts of Dublin. It was owned by the eponymous Luttrell family for over 600 years. The castle has played host to numerous dignitaries over the years including Queen Victoria in 1844 and 1900 and more recently David & Victoria Beckham who celebrated their nuptials here.

3. Castlewellan Castle

Castlewellan Castle. A historic castle sits on a hillside surrounded by green grass and large trees. The structure features stone walls with a reddish hue, reflecting the warm light of sunset. The sky transitions from blue to soft pink above the scene.

Castlewellan Castle and forest park are located in County Down in the town of the same name. The castle itself is a Scottish baronial castle and was built between 1856 and 1858 by the 4th Earl Annesley. The forest park covers some 1140 acres. The park includes the Peace Mace which is made up of some 6000 yew trees and the National Arboretum of Northern Ireland which dates abck to 1740.

4. Castle Roche

Castle Roche. A rural landscape features a grassy field with several cows grazing. In the background, a stone castle ruins are visible atop a small hill under a partly cloudy blue sky. — ©Tourism Ireland -Ireland's Content Pool

Next up we have a wonderful example of the numerous ancient castle ruins in Ireland. This castle has an interesting story behind its construction. It dates way back to 1236 AD and was first commissioned by Rohesia De Verdun. Rohesia moved to Ireland after the sudden death of her husband. She immediately requested a fortified castle be built for her. She even offered her hand in marriage and share in her wealth to whoever would build this castle for her. Legend has it however that the newly married Rohesia disposed of her new groom by pushing him from the window of their bridal suite! To this day that same window is known as “Murder Window”.

5. Clifden Castle

Clifden Castle. A panoramic landscape featuring a grassy hillside leading down to a calm body of water. In the foreground, an old castle partially overgrown with vegetation sits nestled among low shrubs. The background showcases a distant mountain range under a partly cloudy sky.

Ireland's Content Pool

So we end in the west of Ireland at some stunning ruins. There is a lot of history within the ruined walls of Clifden Castle. Built-in 1818 by John D’Arcy, the manor house was at once considered one of the country’s finest. However, after the death of John, his son Hyacinth inherited the house. The famine struck and the new landlord was no longer able to collect the rents. As a result, the estate went bankrupt. It eventually fell into ruins which are still pretty impressive. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the Connemara region.

So if you're planning a trip to Ireland, maybe one of these hidden gem castles will make it on to your to do list! Shop our full collection of Aran Sweaters, Celtic Jewelry & Authentic Irish Homeware today!

Thanks for dropping by,

Take care of yourselves and each other,

Slán go fóill!

Lulu

LULU O'SULLIVAN

Hi everyone. I'm Lulu O Sullivan and I founded The Irish Store in 2011 fuelled by my passion for all things Irish; its places, its people, its culture and its craft. At The Irish Store we are dedicated to bringing you, our worldwide community of valued customers, the very finest Ireland has to offer. Thanks for dropping by!