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Aughnanure Castle: O'Flaherty Stronghold

Discover Aughnanure Castle: a 16th-century O'Flaherty stronghold on Lough Corrib, near Oughterard, County Galway.

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Explore Aughnanure Castle, a remarkably preserved 16th-century tower house near Oughterard, Co. Galway. Built by the O'Flaherty clan on the shores of Lough Corrib, it showcases medieval Irish architecture and clan history.

A brief summary to Aughnanure Castle

Local tips

  • Explore the castle grounds and take in the special atmosphere. There is plenty of space in the bawn, even on a busy day.
  • Take your time to explore the castle's features, such as the watchtowers and the remains of the banqueting hall.
  • Check out Glengowla Mines, located about 3 miles on the Connemara side of Oughterard. These are old lead and silver mines and an entertaining tour there is great fun for kids.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Galway City, take the N59 road northwest towards Clifden. The castle is approximately 21.5 kilometers (13.4 miles) from Galway city center, a scenic 30-minute drive. Follow the N59 past the village of Killarone, where a clearly marked right turn leads toward the castle (signposted after the golf course). Continue for 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) along this road, passing Lough Corrib on your left, until reaching the site. There is ample free parking for cars and coaches at the castle.

  • Public Transport

    Buses from Galway City to Oughterard (operated by Bus Éireann, route 419) stop near the N59 turnoff. From Lower Newcastle in Galway City, the bus journey takes approximately 31 minutes and costs €5 - €8. From the bus stop, follow signs to the castle along the designated road; the walk from Oughterard Gc Stop 530981 is 2152 meters away, a 28 min walk. Check the bus schedule in advance, as services may be limited.

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Discover more about Aughnanure Castle

Aughnanure Castle, located near Oughterard, County Galway, is a captivating example of a 16th-century Irish tower house. Built by the powerful O'Flaherty clan, the castle stands on a rocky island on the Drimneen River, close to Lough Corrib. For over two centuries, it served as a stronghold for the O'Flaherty Gaelic lords of Iarchonnacht (West Connacht). The name Aughnanure derives from the Irish 'Achadh na nlubhar', meaning 'the field of the yews'. The castle's strategic location provided access to waterways and trade routes, reflecting the O'Flaherty tradition of building strongholds near water. Constructed in phases, it features a tower house, an inner walled enclosure (bawn), and a later outer bawn with a banqueting hall. Aughnanure played a role in resisting the Cromwellian blockade of Galway in the 17th century. The O'Flahertys lost their lands after the Rebellion of 1641. The castle later fell into ruin but was donated to the state in 1952 and restored in the 1960s. Visitors can explore the castle's well-preserved features, including the gatehouse, bawn wall, and keep. The narrow spiral staircase, defensive elements, and scenic views of Lough Corrib add to the experience. The castle is believed to have had supernatural hauntings. Today, Aughnanure Castle stands as a testament to the O'Flaherty clan's legacy and medieval Irish heritage.

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