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Oranmore Castle: A Coastal Fortress with Centuries of History

Explore a medieval tower house on Galway Bay with a vibrant history, cultural events, and stunning views of the Irish coast.

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Oranmore Castle, a striking 15th-century tower house on Galway Bay, boasts a rich and turbulent history. Originally a stronghold of the Clanricarde family, it has witnessed sieges, rebellions, and restorations, and today stands as a captivating blend of medieval architecture and artistic inspiration.

A brief summary to Oranmore Castle

  • Oranmore Castle, Castle Rd, Oranmore, Oran More, Co. Galway, IE
  • Visit website

Local tips

  • Check the Oranmore Castle website or call in advance to confirm opening times and tour availability.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the castle grounds and navigate the uneven terrain around the walls.
  • Visit in the late afternoon for softer light, ideal for photography, and potentially fewer crowds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Oranmore village, walk southwest on Castle Road. The castle is located a short distance down this road, on the left, near the Galway Bay. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes. There are no costs associated with walking to the castle.

  • Public Transport

    From Galway City, take Bus Éireann route 404 or 51 to Oranmore. Alight at Oranmore Centre. From there, it's a short walk southwest on Castle Road to the castle. The bus fare is approximately €4-€6. Alternatively, take the train from Galway to Oranmore. From Oranmore train station, it is approximately a 30-minute walk to Oranmore Castle. Train tickets cost approximately €2-€3.

  • Taxi

    From Galway City, a taxi to Oranmore Castle typically costs €20-€25 and takes about 15 minutes. Taxi services like Oran Cabs operate in the area. There are no tolls on this route.

  • Driving

    From Galway City, head east on the N6. Take the exit toward Oranmore and merge onto the R336. Follow signs for Oranmore. Turn left onto Castle Road. The castle will be on your left. Free street parking is generally available. There are no tolls on this route.

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Discover more about Oranmore Castle

Located in the coastal village of Oranmore, County Galway, Oranmore Castle is a well-preserved tower house with a history spanning over six centuries. Constructed in the 15th century, possibly on the site of an older 13th-century structure, it served as a strategic stronghold for the Earls of Clanricarde, a powerful Norman family. The castle controlled trade in the region and played a role in various conflicts, includingstanding against the English in 1574 and enduring a two-year siege during the Confederate War in the 1640s. Ownership of Oranmore Castle passed through different hands over the centuries. After the Clanricardes, the Athy family leased the castle until 1853, after which it fell into disrepair. In 1947, Lady Anita Leslie, a descendant of the Clanricardes, purchased the castle and began its restoration. Today, the castle is owned by Leonie Finn, Lady Leslie's daughter, an artist who uses the castle as a studio and gallery. The castle hosts events and exhibitions, adding a cultural dimension to its historical significance. The castle itself is a rectangular four-story tower with a square staircase turret. Its thick walls feature gunloops, and the roof offers panoramic views of Galway Bay and the surrounding countryside. Oranmore Castle has also appeared in several films and TV shows, including "Scariest Places on Earth" and "Reign".

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