Ballymote Castle, Connacht Travel Guide

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Explore Ballymote Castle, a historic Norman fortress in County Sligo, Ireland, with impressive ruins and a rich medieval past.

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Ballymote Castle

Ballymote Castle, a large keepless enclosure castle built around 1300 by Richard Óg de Burgh, the Red Earl of Ulster, stands as a testament to Norman influence in Connacht. Located in Ballymote, County Sligo, it is among the last and largest of the Norman castles. Though now a ruin, its imposing structure and strategic importance in Irish history continue to captivate visitors.

A brief summary to Ballymote Castle

Ballymote, Carrownanty, Co. Sligo, IE

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
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Ballymote Castle.

Visit on a weekday for a quieter experience, as weekends tend to be more crowded.
Bring a picnic to enjoy on the castle grounds, taking in the serene atmosphere and scenic views.
Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the castle ruins involves walking on uneven terrain.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the castle is best enjoyed in pleasant conditions.

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Other nearby places you may find interesting

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Explore Ballymote Castle on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Ballymote Castle, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Ballymote town center, the castle is a short 10-minute walk. Head west from the town square, following the R293 towards Tubbercurry. The castle is located on the left, just past the Catholic Church and opposite the Ballymote Railway Station. Access to the castle grounds is through the Ballymote Community Nursing Unit.
Public Transport

Ballymote is accessible by train and bus. The Ballymote train station is directly opposite the castle. Bus Éireann and TFI Local Link operate services to Ballymote from Sligo and surrounding areas. From the bus stop in Ballymote, it is a 10-minute walk to the castle. Follow Main Street, turn left onto the R293, and the castle will be on your left. A single train fare from Sligo to Ballymote costs approximately €3-€5. Bus fares vary.
Car

If driving from Sligo, take the N4 towards Dublin and then the R293 to Ballymote. Follow the signs for Ballymote Castle. The castle is located on the R296, opposite the Ballymote Railway Station. Limited parking is available near the castle. Roadside parking may be available if the community park is full. Parking is generally free in Ballymote.

Discover more about Ballymote Castle

Ballymote Castle, situated on the outskirts of the town of Ballymote in southern County Sligo, is a striking example of Anglo-Norman architecture. Constructed around 1300 by Richard Óg de Burgh, the Red Earl of Ulster, it was intended to protect his newly acquired lands in the region. Known historically as Átha Cliath an Chorainn, meaning 'The Ford of the Hurdles of Corann,' the castle is the last of the Norman castles in Connacht.The castle's design is reminiscent of Beaumaris Castle in Wales, featuring a large rectangular enclosure with a double-towered gate on the north wall. The structure is almost square, with three-quarter round towers at each corner and D-shaped towers in the middle of the east and west walls. The walls are approximately 3 meters (10 feet) thick, and a postern gate planned for the south wall was never completed.Throughout its history, Ballymote Castle changed hands numerous times between Irish clans and English forces. It was captured by the O'Connors of Sligo in 1317 and later taken by the Mac Diarmada in 1347. By 1381, it was in the possession of the McDonaghs. In 1588, the O'Connors, O'Hartes, and O'Dowds sacked the castle. Red Hugh O'Donnell purchased it in 1598 for £400 and 300 cows, and it was from here that he marched to the Battle of Kinsale in 1601.In 1690, after the Williamite wars, the castle's fortifications were dismantled, the moat was filled, and the structure fell into ruin. Today, the Office of Public Works maintains the castle grounds, which are open to the public free of charge. Visitors can explore the ruins, imagine its former grandeur, and learn about its pivotal role in Irish history. The castle is also linked to the Book of Ballymote, a significant 14th-century manuscript containing key texts of Irish literature.