Charleville Castle: A Gothic Revival Masterpiece
Explore a haunted, neo-Gothic castle in Ireland's ancient oak forest near Tullamore, County Offaly. History, architecture, and mystery await!
Charleville Castle, located near Tullamore in County Offaly, is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture set within an ancient oak forest. Built in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the castle boasts ornate plaster ceilings, grand staircases, and a rich history, including tales of hauntings. Today, it is managed by the Charleville Castle Heritage Trust and is open to the public for tours, though visits may be limited due to ongoing restoration.
A brief summary to Charleville Castle Heritage Trust
- Tullamore, Charleville Demesne, Co. Offaly, IE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the Charleville Castle website or call ahead for tour availability, as it's run by volunteers and hours can vary.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the castle's many rooms and the surrounding oak forest.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and possibly some paranormal phenomena.
- Consider visiting during one of the castle's special events or ghost tours for a unique experience.
- Be aware that the castle is undergoing restoration, so some areas may be closed to the public.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Tullamore, Charleville Castle is approximately a 3km walk. Head southwest, following signs for the castle. The route will take you through Charleville Demesne, a large wooded area. The walk is mostly flat and takes around 40-50 minutes. There are no entrance fees to the Demesne.
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Public Transport
From Tullamore Train Station, you can take a local bus towards the town center. Alight in the town center and then follow the walking directions. Bus tickets cost approximately €2-€3 for a short trip within Tullamore. Check local bus schedules in advance as services may be infrequent.
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Taxi
A taxi from Tullamore town center to Charleville Castle costs approximately €8-€12 and takes about 5-10 minutes. Taxis are readily available in the town center. Pre-booking is advisable, especially during peak season. There are no tolls on this route.
Discover more about Charleville Castle Heritage Trust
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