Menlo Castle, Connacht Travel Guide

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Explore the haunting ruins of Menlo Castle, a 16th-century landmark on the River Corrib with a rich history and tragic past.

Menlo Castle, also known as Blake's Castle, is a 16th-century ruin on the banks of the River Corrib near Galway City. Once home to the Blake family, one of Galway's wealthiest, it met a tragic end in 1910 when a fire claimed the lives of three. Today, its ivy-covered walls offer a glimpse into the past.

A brief summary to Menlo Castle

Menlo, Co. Galway, IE
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From Eve

Know before you go

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

Note that access to Menlo Castle may be restricted due to ongoing conservation efforts.
The easiest way to find Menlo Castle is by sticking the address into Google Maps.
Visit during the golden hour or sunset for stunning light and views.

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Explore Menlo Castle on the Map

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

Getting There

Walking

Menlo Castle is located approximately a 40-minute walk from Galway City center. Be cautious, as the route may involve walking on roads without footpaths. From the city center, follow the road towards the N6 (Dublin road). Turn left at the roundabout past Tesco. Continue past Menlo Park Hotel and turn right at the junction. Take the next left where you will see a sign for Menlo. Look for a stone archway on the left. There is no dedicated parking. Be respectful of local residents when parking. You'll need to hop over a gate and follow the path to the castle ruins.
Public Transport

The 404 bus from Eyre Square stops at Tudor Lawn, a 9-minute ride. From there, it's approximately a 12-minute walk to Menlo Castle. Bus Éireann operates this route hourly, with tickets costing between €3 and €6. From the bus stop, walk towards Menlo village, passing the old gatehouse/arch. Climb over the gate and follow the rough track to the castle ruins.
Taxi

A taxi from Eyre Square to Menlo Castle Entrance Arch takes approximately 6 minutes and costs between €11 and €14. Inform the driver to take the route towards Menlo village. Upon arrival at Menlo, you'll see a dirt road on the left with castle walls and a stone archway at the entrance. Drive to the end of the path and park along the side. You'll need to hop across the locked gate at the end of the road and walk down the short path to arrive at the castle.

Discover more about Menlo Castle

Nestled on the banks of the River Corrib, a short distance from Galway City, Menlo Castle stands as a haunting reminder of a rich and tragic past. Also known as Blake's Castle, this 16th-century structure was the ancestral home of the Blake family, one of the fourteen Tribes of Galway.Built in 1569, the castle was home to the Blakes from 1600 to 1910. They were among the wealthiest families in the area, owning extensive properties in Galway, Mayo and Clare. The family renovated and expanded the castle, adding a Jacobean mansion in the late 17th century. The Blakes were known for their hospitality, hosting the annual 'Maying in Menlo' festival for villagers, with sports, music, and dancing.Tragedy struck on July 26, 1910, when a fire engulfed the castle while Sir Valentine and Lady Blake were away. Their disabled daughter, Eleanor, and two maids perished in the flames. The castle was gutted, and the Blake family never rebuilt it. The ruins, now covered in ivy, remain a picturesque and evocative site.Today, Menlo Castle is a popular destination for those seeking to explore Galway's history and nature. Visitors can walk around the castle walls and admire the architecture while enjoying views of the River Corrib.