O'Brien's Castle: A Sentinel of Inisheer
Explore the historic O'Brien's Castle on Inisheer: a medieval tower house offering stunning views and a glimpse into Ireland's past.
Perched atop Inisheer, the smallest of the Aran Islands, O'Brien's Castle is a 15th-century tower house built by the O'Brien clan on the site of a much older ringfort. Over centuries, it has witnessed sieges, conquests, and eventual ruin, offering visitors a tangible link to Ireland's tumultuous past and panoramic views of the island and coast.
A brief summary to O'Brien's Castle
- Oir, Inisheer, Inisheer, Co. Galway, IE
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain around the castle is uneven and rocky.
- Check the weather forecast before visiting, as it can be windy and exposed at the castle.
- Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of Inisheer and the surrounding coastline.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Inisheer ferry pier, O'Brien's Castle is approximately a 15-minute walk. Follow the road leading away from the pier and beach. The castle is located on the highest point of the island and is visible from most locations. The route involves a gradual uphill walk. There are no admission fees or mandatory access costs.
Discover more about O'Brien's Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Trá Inis Oirr (Inisheer Blue Flag Beach)
0.4 km
Discover the beauty of Trá Inis Oirr, a pristine Blue Flag beach on the charming island of Inis Oirr, off the coast of Galway.
Tigh Ruairi (Rory's Pub) Bed & Breakfast, Inis Oirr, Aran Islands
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Experience Irish hospitality at this charming Inis Oirr B&B, offering cozy rooms, traditional music, and a taste of island life. Céad míle fáilte!
Wanderly Wagon Tours
0.7 km
Discover Inisheer: Aran Island charm, ancient ruins, stunning landscapes, and vibrant Irish culture await on this captivating isle.
Brú Radharc na Mara (Sea View Hostel), Inis Oírr, Aran Islands
0.8 km
Discover Inis Oírr from this charming, centrally located hostel with stunning sea views. Your gateway to Aran Island adventures!
South Aran House
1.0 km
Escape to the tranquil beauty of Inisheer at South Aran House, where stunning sunsets and a peaceful atmosphere await.
Inis Meáin Island Stays
5.1 km
Discover tranquility and local flavors at this unique island retreat, offering stunning views and a sustainable dining experience on Inis Meáin.
An Dun B&B Inis Meain, Aran Islands.
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Ard Einne House
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Viewing point Cliffs of Moher
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Tigh Fitz
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Experience Irish hospitality at Tigh Fitz on Inishmore, a charming guesthouse near beaches, historical sites, and stunning Aran Island landscapes.
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Fáilte Bus Tour, Aran Islands.
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Pier House Guesthouse
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Unmissable attractions to see
Caislean Ui Bhriain (O' Brien's castle)
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Teampall Caomhán
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Cnoc Raithní
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Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point @Inis Oirr (Port)
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Blath na Greine
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Chris’ Orchard
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Cill Ghobnait (Church Ruin)
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Aras Eanna Arts Centre
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An Loch Mór
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Inisheer
1.0 km
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Plassey Shipwreck
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An Plassey
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Tobar Einne (Sacred Well)
1.8 km
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Inis Oirr (Inisheer) Lighthouse
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Trá Leitreach
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Essential places to dine
An Currach
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Inis Oírr Hotel- Flaherty's
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Café Úna
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Tigh Ned
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Gus O'Connor's Pub
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The Ivy Cottage
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Anthony's at Doolin Inn
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Glas Restaurant
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STONEWALL WOOD-FIRED PIZZERIA, ORGANIC WINE BAR & COFFEE HOUSE
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Oar Restaurant & Rooms
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Russell's Fishshop
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Russells Seafood Bar
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Homestead Cottage
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Riverside Bistro Doolin
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Tigh Joe Mac
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Craggy Ices
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Aran Sweater House
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Siopa XL
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'Teach an Tae', Café Aran & Tea Rooms
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An Ceard Shiopa
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CLEAS Inis Oírr
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Siopa Ruaidhrí Beag
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O'Briens Crafts & Knitwear
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Traditional Music Shop
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Doolin Dinghy Books
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Liscannor Stone Company
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GoldLeafPastry
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Russells Coffee Shop
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Innismann
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Fitz's Pub
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McGann's Pub
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McDermott's Pub
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Poki's prosecco pitstop
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Egans Pub
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The Edge
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P Frawley's Bar
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Flanagans Bar
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The Nineteenth Bar
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Kenny's Bar
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The Claremont Bar & Nightclub
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Slatterys bar
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Cullinans Bar
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