Ballykine Castle: A Hidden Gem in County Mayo

Discover the enchanting ruins of Ballykine Castle, a hidden historical treasure nestled in the serene landscapes of County Mayo, Ireland.

4.3

Looking to book tours, experiences or hotels? Let me help you...

Nestled within the dense Clonbur Woodland near the Galway-Mayo border, Ballykine Castle is a 13th-century ruin with a rich history. Once owned by the O'Kyne clan and later the Guinness family, this small, fortified house offers a tranquil escape into Ireland's past, surrounded by lush foliage and an eerie quiet atmosphere.

A brief summary to Ballykine Castle

Ballykine Lower, Co. Mayo, IE
Visit website

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle ruins and surrounding trails.
Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning architecture and scenic views.
Pack a picnic to enjoy in the tranquil surroundings of the castle.
Respect the site by following any posted guidelines and preserving its natural beauty.

Getting There

Driving

To reach Ballykine Castle by car, start from the N59 through Connemara National Park. From Clifden, head towards Westport. After about 20 kilometers, you'll reach Leenane. Turn onto the R335 towards Ballykine, continuing for approximately 15 kilometers until you see signs for the castle. The castle is located off the road in Ballykine Lower, Co. Mayo. Parking is limited, so find a safe area to pull over. There are no tolls on this route.
Public Transport

To reach Ballykine Castle using public transport, take a Bus Éireann bus from Clifden to Westport. From Westport, take another bus to Leenane. From Leenane, you can walk or take a taxi to Ballykine Castle, which is about 15 kilometers away. Bus fares from Clifden to Westport typically cost around €10-€15, and Westport to Leenane around €8-€12. A taxi from Leenane to the castle may cost approximately €25-€35.
Walking

If you are near Ballykine Castle, walking trails around Connemara National Park can lead you to the R335 road. Head south towards Ballykine. The walk offers scenic views but involves some elevation changes. Ensure you have a map or GPS. There are no costs associated with walking.

Discover more about Ballykine Castle

Ballykine Castle, also known as Baile Ui Chadhain in Irish, lies hidden within the Clonbur Woodland, near the border of County Mayo and County Galway. This 13th-century ruin, located 1.5km east of Clonbur, was one of five castles built by the O'Kyne (O'Cadain) Clan. The castle's lands were seized in 1571, and it later passed to the Burke family, who then gave it to Scottish mercenaries, the McDonnells, in lieu of payment. Eventually, it became part of the Guinness estate. Ballykine Castle is small, more like a fortified house, measuring only 24 feet by 17 feet. It features a four-story tower and a trabeated doorway, with archeologists estimating the doorway to predate the rest of the structure by 900 years. The castle had two rooms on the ground floor and one large room on the upper floor, accessible via an outside stairway. The interior was destroyed by fire in the late 15th or early 16th century, leaving exposed and cracked stones. Today, Ballykine Castle sits submerged in an eerily quiet atmosphere, enveloped by the surrounding emerald foliage. The area has been reforested, adding to the spooky atmosphere, especially with mist over the nearby Lough Mask. Visitors can explore the castle ruins and the surrounding walking trails, immersing themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility of this historical site.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Ballykine Castle

0.0 km

Discover the enchanting ruins of Ballykine Castle, a hidden historical treasure nestled in the serene landscapes of County Mayo, Ireland.

The Guinness Tower (1864)

3.5 km

Explore the historical marvel of the Guinness Tower in Cong, Co. Mayo, and immerse yourself in Ireland's rich heritage and stunning landscapes.

Monk’s Fishing House

3.7 km

Explore the historic Monk's Fishing House in Cong, County Mayo: a testament to medieval ingenuity and monastic life on the scenic River Cong.

Statue of John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara

3.8 km

Explore the iconic Statue of John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara in scenic Cong, County Mayo, a must-see for film lovers and tourists alike.

Cong Abbey

3.8 km

Explore the historic Cong Abbey in County Mayo, a serene monastic site surrounded by stunning natural beauty, perfect for history buffs and nature lovers.

The Pyramid

7.7 km

Discover the intriguing Pyramid of The Neale, an 18th-century architectural folly steeped in Irish history and local legend in County Mayo.

Derroura Woods

9.9 km

Escape to the tranquility of Derroura Woods in Galway: scenic trails, breathtaking views, and a haven for nature lovers.

Currarevagh House

10.1 km

Discover the charm of Currarevagh House in Co. Galway, a luxurious hotel with fine dining and breathtaking views, nestled amidst stunning nature.

Curraghduff Farm

10.1 km

Experience the charm of rural Ireland at Curraghduff Farm: walk with alpacas, enjoy stunning views, and create unforgettable memories.

Ballycurrin Lighthouse

11.4 km

Explore the historic Ballycurrin Lighthouse, an iconic maritime landmark offering stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere on Lough Corrib's shores.

Oughterard Shrubbery

14.4 km

Escape to Oughterard Shrubbery: Galway's serene park with lush greenery, peaceful paths, and a tranquil atmosphere for nature lovers.

Ross Errilly Friary

16.1 km

Explore the serene ruins and rich history of Ross Errilly Friary in County Galway, a hidden gem for history lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Holy Well

24.5 km

Discover the tranquil beauty and spiritual significance of this historic landmark in Killeen, Mayo Abbey, steeped in Irish heritage.

Castle Hackett

25.5 km

Discover Castle Hackett, a medieval tower house in County Galway, steeped in history and folklore, offering a glimpse into Ireland's past.

The Boheh Stone

25.6 km

Discover the ancient allure of the Boheh Stone in County Mayo, a historical landmark steeped in Ireland's rich heritage and breathtaking natural beauty.

Unmissable attractions to see

Clonbur Wood Car Park

1.9 km

Explore the enchanting Clonbur Wood Car Park in County Galway, a serene natural haven perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying Ireland's stunning landscapes.

Pigeon Hole Wood

2.5 km

Explore the natural beauty of Pigeon Hole Wood in Co. Galway, a tranquil hiking haven perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Pigeon Hole Cave

2.6 km

Explore the enchanting Pigeon Hole Cave in Clogher, Co. Galway – a spectacular natural attraction filled with stunning geological formations and rich folklore.

Cong Wood

3.7 km

Explore the enchanting Cong Wood in Co. Mayo, a national forest boasting scenic trails, rich history, and serene landscapes for every nature lover.

The Quiet Man Museum, Tours & Giftshop

3.7 km

Experience the magic of cinema at The Quiet Man Museum in Cong, Co. Mayo, where film history meets stunning Irish landscapes.

St Mary of the Rosary Catholic Church

3.9 km

Explore the serene St Mary of the Rosary Catholic Church in Cong South, a beautiful blend of history, architecture, and spiritual tranquility.

Ard Na Gaoithe, Forest Recreational Park

4.0 km

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Ard Na Gaoithe Forest Recreational Park in Co. Mayo, a sanctuary for nature lovers and peace seekers alike.

Ashford Castle

4.3 km

Discover the enchanting Ashford Castle, a luxurious hotel in Ireland offering rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-class amenities for an unforgettable stay.

Lough Corrib

7.8 km

Explore Lough Corrib: Ireland's largest lake, where stunning landscapes meet rich history and endless outdoor adventures await every traveler.

Lough Mask - Tourmakeady Pier

10.1 km

Experience the serene beauty of Lough Mask at Tourmakeady Pier, a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts in County Mayo, Ireland.

Tourmakeady Waterfall

11.1 km

Experience the enchanting beauty of Tourmakeady Waterfall in Co. Mayo, a tranquil paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Viewpoint

13.5 km

Discover breathtaking landscapes and serene vistas at the Dooletter Viewpoint, a hidden gem in County Mayo, Ireland.

Quiet Man Bridge

15.4 km

Explore the Quiet Man Bridge in Recess, Co. Galway, a picturesque landmark rich in history and set against a stunning natural backdrop.

Glengowla Mines

15.5 km

Explore the historic Glengowla Mines in Co. Galway, a unique blend of adventure and education amidst stunning Irish landscapes.

Joyce Country Sheepdogs

15.6 km

Discover the fascinating world of sheepdog herding at Joyce Country Sheepdogs in Clonbur, County Galway—a true gem of Irish rural culture.

Essential places to dine

John J. Burke's Bar & Restaurant , Tí Bhúrca, Clonbur. Co Galway

2.2 km

Experience authentic Irish hospitality at John J. Burke's Bar & Restaurant in Clonbur – where tradition meets great food.

John J. Burke's Bar & Restaurant , Tí Bhúrca, Clonbur. Co Galway

Cullen's at the Cottage

4.3 km

Experience exquisite Irish cuisine at Cullen's at the Cottage in Ashford Castle, where local flavors meet elegant dining amidst stunning surroundings.

Wilde's at the Lodge

4.8 km

Experience fine dining excellence at Wilde's at the Lodge amidst the breathtaking beauty of Ashford Castle in Co. Mayo.

Connemara Lake Hotel

14.2 km

Discover tranquility at Connemara Lake Hotel – your perfect getaway in Co. Galway with stunning views and rich local experiences.

Connemara Greenway Restaurant

14.2 km

Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Connemara Greenway Restaurant amidst the stunning landscapes of Oughterard.

The Lough Inn

14.4 km

Discover authentic Irish cuisine at The Lough Inn - a cozy pub and family restaurant nestled in scenic County Mayo.

Screebe House

23.9 km

Experience unparalleled luxury at Screebe House in Connemara, where stunning landscapes meet exceptional hospitality.

Westport Country Lodge Hotel

26.7 km

Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Westport Country Lodge Hotel with exceptional dining options in scenic Co. Mayo.

Ellie McGuires Restaurant

28.1 km

Experience local flavors and warm hospitality at Ellie McGuires Restaurant in Ballindine, Co. Mayo - the perfect stop for travelers.

Delphi Resort

28.4 km

Discover adventure and tranquility at Delphi Resort in Co. Galway - your perfect getaway surrounded by nature's beauty.

Misunderstood Heron

28.8 km

Discover the flavors of Co. Galway at Misunderstood Heron - where local ingredients meet creative culinary artistry in a stunning setting.

Old Arch Bar & Bistro

28.8 km

Discover authentic Irish cuisine at Old Arch Bar & Bistro in Claremorris—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

Il Vulcano Restaurant

29.5 km

Discover authentic Italian flavors at Il Vulcano Restaurant in Westport – where every dish tells a story.

No.8 Tapas Bar

29.5 km

Experience exquisite Mediterranean tapas and fine wines at No.8 Tapas Bar in Westport - A culinary gem in Co. Mayo.

McGing's Bar

29.5 km

Discover McGing's Bar: A lively Irish pub in Westport where locals meet tourists for drinks, music, and authentic cultural experiences.

Explore authentic Irish crafts and souvenirs at Thomas Moran Souvenir Shop in Westport, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at The Rendezvous Bar, a cozy spot in Balla offering a delightful selection of drinks and local culture.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at The Quays Bar and Restaurant, a cultural staple in the heart of Galway.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Ballykine Castle with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Ballykine Castle: A Hidden Gem in County Mayo

A brief summary to Ballykine Castle

Local tips

Getting There

Driving

Public Transport

Walking

Unlock the Best of Ballykine Castle

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Ballykine Castle

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Ballykine Castle

The Guinness Tower (1864)

Monk’s Fishing House

Statue of John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara

Cong Abbey

The Pyramid

Derroura Woods

Currarevagh House

Curraghduff Farm

Ballycurrin Lighthouse

Oughterard Shrubbery

Ross Errilly Friary

Holy Well

Castle Hackett

The Boheh Stone

Unmissable attractions to see

Clonbur Wood Car Park

Pigeon Hole Wood

Pigeon Hole Cave

Cong Wood

The Quiet Man Museum, Tours & Giftshop

St Mary of the Rosary Catholic Church

Ard Na Gaoithe, Forest Recreational Park

Ashford Castle

Lough Corrib

Lough Mask - Tourmakeady Pier

Tourmakeady Waterfall

Viewpoint

Quiet Man Bridge

Glengowla Mines

Joyce Country Sheepdogs

Essential places to dine

John J. Burke's Bar & Restaurant , Tí Bhúrca, Clonbur. Co Galway

Cullen's at the Cottage

Wilde's at the Lodge

Connemara Lake Hotel

Connemara Greenway Restaurant

The Lough Inn

Screebe House

Westport Country Lodge Hotel

Ellie McGuires Restaurant

Delphi Resort

Misunderstood Heron

Old Arch Bar & Bistro

Il Vulcano Restaurant

No.8 Tapas Bar

McGing's Bar

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Lilly's Antiques and Collectables

Walkin's Gift Shop

John P. Keogh & Sons Irish Gifts and Crafts

Joyce's Craftshop

The Gaiety Antique and Vintage Store

Jeremiah Higgins

L’Armoire Boutique

Shine Boutique

Westpoint Shopping Centre

The Boutique Charity Shop

Euro stretcher

Aodha Irish craft & design

boutique Collette

Portwest Ireland - The Flagship Store

Thomas Moran Souvenir Shop

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Lough Mask Inn

TJ Gibbons' Bar

Joyce's Bar