Dunguaire Castle: A Medieval Tower on Galway Bay
Discover Dunguaire Castle: A 16th-century tower house on Galway Bay, steeped in Irish history and literary tradition. Open seasonally for tours & banquets.
Dunguaire Castle, a striking 16th-century tower house, stands proudly on the southeastern shore of Galway Bay near Kinvarra, County Galway. With its iconic 75-foot tower and defensive walls, the castle offers a glimpse into medieval Ireland and boasts a rich history intertwined with the Irish literary revival.
A brief summary to Dunguaire Castle
- DUNGUAIRE CASTLE, Kinvarra, Dungory West, Co. Galway, IE
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the summer months (June-August) for the warmest weather, but be prepared for larger crowds.
- Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times and capture the best light for photos.
- Book in advance for the Medieval Banquet, which runs from April to October, to guarantee a seat.
- Check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and any temporary closures.
- Take a guided tour to learn more about the castle's history and the literary figures who frequented it.
Getting There
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Walking
From the village of Kinvarra, Dunguaire Castle is a pleasant walk of approximately 10 minutes. Head east along the coast road (N67) towards Galway. The castle is situated on a small outcrop jutting into Galway Bay, making it easily visible from the road. There are crosswalks available to help you safely cross the road. There is no fee for walking to the castle.
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Public Transport
The Bus Éireann route 350 operates a regular service from Galway to Kinvarra. From the Kinvara bus stop, it's a short 10-minute walk east along the N67 coast road to Dunguaire Castle. A single adult fare on the Bus Éireann route 350 from Galway to Kinvara typically costs between €5 and €8. Be sure to check the Bus Éireann website or app for the most up-to-date schedules and fares.
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Driving
Dunguaire Castle is located just outside Kinvarra on the N67 road to Galway. From Galway, follow the N6 south to Kilcolgan, then the N67 to Kinvara. The castle is approximately a 28-minute drive from Galway. There is a free, unpaved parking lot located near the castle.
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