Newtown Castle: A Burren Gem
Explore a beautifully restored 16th-century tower house in the Burren, blending history, art, and stunning Irish scenery.
Newtown Castle, a unique 16th-century cylindrical tower house near Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare, offers a glimpse into Ireland's past. Originally an O'Brien stronghold, it later became home to the O'Loghlen family. Today, beautifully restored, it serves as part of the Burren College of Art, hosting exhibitions and events.
A brief summary to Newtown Castle
- Newtown, Co. Clare, H91 H299, IE
- +353657077200
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Check the Burren College of Art website for the most up-to-date opening hours, as they may vary.
- Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds.
- Take a walk on the Newtown Castle trail for scenic views of the Burren landscape.
Getting There
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Car
From Ballyvaughan, head south on the N67. After approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km), turn onto the road signposted for Newtown Castle. Follow this road to the castle. Parking is available near the castle.
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Public Transport
Take Bus Éireann route 350 from Galway or Ennis to Ballyvaughan. From Ballyvaughan, it is approximately a 30-minute walk (2.4 km) to Newtown Castle. Alternatively, take a local taxi from Ballyvaughan to the castle. A taxi from Ballyvaughan to Newtown Castle will cost approximately €10-€15.
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Walking
From the center of Ballyvaughan, walk south on the N67 for approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km). Turn onto the road signposted for Newtown Castle and follow it to the destination. The walk takes approximately 30 minutes.
Discover more about Newtown Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Monks Ballyvaughan
2.0 km
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Gregans Castle Hotel in the Burren
3.2 km
Discover the charm of Gregans Castle Hotel, where luxury meets the breathtaking beauty of the Burren in County Clare.
Gleninagh Castle
4.5 km
Discover the medieval charm of Gleninagh Castle in Co. Clare, where history meets breathtaking landscapes.
Clochán Monuments of Clare
6.3 km
Explore the ancient Clochán Monuments of Clare, remarkable dry-stone structures offering a glimpse into Ireland's Celtic past and early Christian heritage.
Ó'Dálaigh Monument
7.1 km
Experience the rich cultural heritage of Ireland at the Ó'Dálaigh Monument in County Clare, a serene historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Corcomroe Abbey
8.1 km
Explore Corcomroe Abbey, a stunning historical landmark in County Clare, steeped in history and surrounded by nature's beauty.
Poulawack Cairn
8.1 km
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Black Head Lighthouse
8.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich maritime history at Black Head Lighthouse in Co. Clare, a scenic gem on Ireland’s west coast.
Galway Bay
11.5 km
Experience the captivating beauty of Galway Bay, where stunning landscapes meet vibrant marine life on Ireland's west coast.
Spectacle Bridge
12.7 km
Discover the historic Spectacle Bridge in County Clare: a unique architectural marvel offering stunning views and a peaceful escape into Ireland's past.
Kilfenora Cathedral, Church of Ireland
13.0 km
Discover Kilfenora Cathedral: a medieval masterpiece in County Clare, rich in history and architectural beauty, perfect for culture and history enthusiasts.
Burren Castle Hotel Lisdoonvarna
13.6 km
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Lime kiln historical ruins
15.7 km
Step back in time at the Lime Kiln Historical Ruins in County Clare, exploring Ireland's industrial heritage and the vital role of lime production.
The Burren Nature Sanctuary
16.4 km
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Burren Farm Experience
17.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Burren Hill Walks
1.9 km
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Ballyvaughan Pier
2.1 km
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Aillwee Burren Experience
2.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Aillwee Burren Experience in Co. Clare, Ireland, where stunning caves and wildlife await your discovery.
The Pinnacle Well
3.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of The Pinnacle Well, an enchanting holy site in County Clare, Ireland.
Corkscrew Hill
3.9 km
Explore Corkscrew Hill, a picturesque scenic spot in Co. Clare offering breathtaking views of the Burren and Galway Bay.
Caher Bridge Garden
5.7 km
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Muckinish West Tower House
5.9 km
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Poulnabrone Dolmen
6.4 km
Explore Poulnabrone Dolmen, a stunning portal tomb in County Clare, showcasing Ireland's ancient history amidst the breathtaking landscape of the Burren.
Doughbranneen
6.7 km
Unveil the natural beauty and rich history of Doughbranneen, a serene tourist attraction in County Clare, Ireland, perfect for nature lovers and explorers.
Caherconnell Stone Fort & Sheepdog Demonstrations
7.2 km
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Burren Mountain Tours
7.6 km
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Caherdoonerish Stone Fort
7.7 km
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Flaggy Shore
8.0 km
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Fanore Beach
8.1 km
Experience the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Fanore Beach, a must-visit destination in Co. Clare, Ireland.
Hazel Mountain Chocolate
8.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Burren Fine Wine & Food
1.5 km
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Hylands Burren Hotel
1.8 km
Experience luxury amidst nature at Hylands Burren Hotel - your gateway to exploring County Clare's breathtaking landscapes.
L'Arco Italian Restaurant
1.9 km
Experience authentic Italian dining at L'Arco in Ballyvaughan - where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality in Co. Clare.
Linnane's Lobster Bar
8.5 km
Experience the best of Irish seafood at Linnane's Lobster Bar in New Quay – where fresh flavors meet stunning coastal views.
O'Donohues Pub
8.5 km
Experience traditional Irish culture at O'Donohues Pub in Craggagh - where hearty meals meet vibrant music in a cozy setting.
Cassidys Pub and Restaurant
9.8 km
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The Ritz
11.5 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine at The Ritz in Lisdoonvarna - where tradition meets taste in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The Burren Takeaway
11.6 km
Experience delightful fast food with local flair at The Burren Takeaway in Lisdoonvarna - perfect for tourists seeking quick bites!
Roadside Tavern Lisdoonvarna
11.7 km
Experience authentic Irish cuisine and vibrant local culture at Roadside Tavern Lisdoonvarna – your ideal gastropub destination.
Burren Storehouse
11.7 km
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Sheedy's Boutique Hotel & Restaurant
11.7 km
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Wild Honey Inn
11.9 km
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Parlour Restaurant
13.1 km
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The Pier Head Bar & Restaurant
16.0 km
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Fox's of Kinvara
16.0 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Quinn's Craftshop
1.9 km
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Burren Seafoods
8.5 km
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The Burren Butcher- Neil Hawes
10.8 km
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The Burren Pharmacy & Treatment Rooms
11.5 km
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The Burren Smokehouse
11.8 km
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The Burren Flower Farm
15.0 km
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Clare Woollen Mills
16.2 km
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Aran View Filling Station
16.3 km
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GoldLeafPastry
16.4 km
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Russells Coffee Shop
16.8 km
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Liscannor Stone Company
17.0 km
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Irish Crafts - Doolin
17.2 km
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The Sweater Shop
17.6 km
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Traditional Music Shop
17.7 km
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Doolin Dinghy Books
17.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
O'Loclainn's Irish Whiskey Bar
1.9 km
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The Fountain Bar
1.9 km
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The Wild Atlantic Lodge
1.9 km
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Linnanes Pub
13.0 km
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Vaughan's Pub
13.1 km
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Keogh's Cafe, Restaurant, Kinvara
16.0 km
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Greens Bar
16.0 km
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McDermott's Pub
16.5 km
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McGann's Pub
16.6 km
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Fitz's Pub
17.0 km
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Atlantic Bar
18.1 km
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Lonergan's Atlantic Bar
18.3 km
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The Oslo Bar
18.4 km
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The Office
18.5 km
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Barnacles Seafood Bar & Restaurant
18.5 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ecstatic Ireland
17.6 km
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Róisín Dubh
19.9 km
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Eugene's Bar
20.0 km
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Club Arus na nGael
20.0 km
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Tig Cóilí
20.3 km
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Coyotes Late Bar
20.3 km
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Electric Galway
20.4 km
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DNA
20.5 km
Discover the energetic nightlife of Galway at DNA, a vibrant night club in Eyre Square offering unforgettable music and dancing until dawn.
O'Connell's Bar
20.6 km
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Cuba Galway
20.7 km
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Ireland's Smallest Comedy Club
20.7 km
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The Burren Inn, Tubber
22.2 km
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P Frawley's Bar
22.4 km
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The Nineteenth Bar
22.4 km
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Kenny's Bar
22.5 km
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