Carlow Castle: A Ruined Norman Fortress
Explore the remains of Carlow Castle, a 13th-century Norman fortress steeped in Irish history, located on the banks of the River Barrow in Carlow Town.
Carlow Castle, built in the early 13th century by William Marshal, stands as a testament to Norman architecture in Ireland. Though now largely in ruins, with only two towers and a connecting wall remaining, it offers a glimpse into the region's medieval past.
A brief summary to Carlow Castle
- 7 Castle Hill, Carlow, Carlow, R93 FT97, IE
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the architectural details and scenic views.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the ground around the castle ruins can be uneven.
- Check out the information boards around the castle to learn about its history.
Getting There
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Walking
Carlow Castle is located in Carlow Town, easily accessible on foot from the town center. From the main streets, follow signs towards the River Barrow. The castle ruins are situated on Castle Hill, a short walk from the town's main attractions. The walk is generally flat and takes approximately 5-10 minutes from the central shopping area. No costs are involved.
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Public Transport
Carlow has a local bus service, Bus Éireann, with routes connecting various points in the town. Check local bus routes and schedules to see if any routes have a stop near Castle Hill. A single fare within the town costs approximately €2-€3. Alternatively, Bus Éireann and Rapid Express Coaches provide multiple services to Dublin and Waterford daily. The buses stop at several points along the route.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Carlow Town. A short taxi ride from the train or bus station to Carlow Castle would cost approximately €8-€12. Uber is also available. Taxi rates start at €3.20, with each KM priced at €1.50.
Discover more about Carlow Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Black Castle
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Mullaghreelan Rath
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Hardymount House and Gardens
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Discover a serene escape in County Carlow, where historical architecture meets meticulously maintained gardens and tranquil natural beauty.
The Bull Ring
13.2 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of The Bull Ring, a historical landmark in Co. Carlow, and immerse yourself in Ireland's rich cultural heritage.
1916 Monument
14.5 km
Explore the serene 1916 Monument in Co. Carlow, where history and nature unite, offering a reflective escape for all visitors.
Castlemore Moat
15.1 km
Explore Castlemore Moat in County Carlow: Discover Norman history and scenic beauty at this ancient castle site and national monument.
Ballyadams Castle
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Explore the captivating ruins of Ballyadams Castle, a medieval gem in County Laois, surrounded by stunning Irish landscapes and rich history.
Ernest Shackleton Memorial
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Woodstock Castle
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Haroldstown Dolmen
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Explore the ancient Haroldstown Dolmen in County Carlow, a striking portal tomb offering a glimpse into Ireland's Neolithic past.
Ballyloughan Castle
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Explore the medieval ruins of Ballyloughan Castle in County Carlow, featuring a striking gatehouse and remnants of a 13th-century Norman fortress.
Timahoe Round Tower
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The Christy Tent
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The Orangery
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Ballinakill Castle
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Unmissable attractions to see
BoatTrips.ie
0.2 km
Discover the beauty and history of the River Barrow with guided boat trips in Carlow. Experience nature and local stories on a relaxing waterway adventure.
Carlow Town Park and Playground
0.4 km
Escape to Carlow Town Park: Playgrounds, riverside walks, and natural beauty await on the banks of the River Barrow.
Croppies Grave
0.4 km
Visit Croppies Grave in Carlow: a solemn memorial honoring the brave souls of the 1798 Rebellion and their fight for Irish independence.
Carlow County Museum
0.5 km
Explore County Carlow's captivating history and heritage at the Carlow County Museum, with exhibits spanning from ancient times to the modern era.
Carlow Garden Trail and Festival
0.5 km
Explore Ireland's garden county: Discover inspiring landscapes, historic estates, and award-winning gardens along the scenic Carlow Garden Trail.
Cathedral of the Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary
0.6 km
A towering Gothic Revival cathedral in Carlow, famed for its soaring spire and historical significance since 1833.
County Carlow Military Museum
0.9 km
Explore County Carlow's military history from the 18th century to today, featuring Irish Defence Forces, WWI trench replica, and stories of local soldiers.
Delta Sensory Gardens
1.2 km
Discover a multi-sensory paradise in Carlow: award-winning gardens, tranquil water features, and accessible beauty for all ages.
Dome Entertainment Centre Carlow
1.2 km
Carlow's premier entertainment center with bowling, laser tag, arcade games, and the massive Congo Quest soft play area. Fun for the whole family!
Burrin Manor Park & Gardens
2.0 km
Escape to the serene beauty of Burrin Manor Park & Gardens in Carlow, where vibrant flowers and peaceful pathways await your discovery.
Brownshill Portal Tomb (Dolmen)
3.7 km
Marvel at Europe's largest dolmen capstone, a relic of Neolithic Ireland near Carlow town. Free entry, easy access, and a journey back in time.
The Big Blue Barn
4.0 km
Carlow's ultimate indoor playground: slides, climbing frames, and endless fun for kids of all ages!
OakPark, Carlow, Co. Carlow
4.2 km
Discover tranquility in Carlow at Oak Park Forest Park: Explore scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and historical charm in a serene woodland setting.
Milford Mill
6.4 km
Explore the historic Milford Mill in County Carlow, an 18th-century watermill with a fascinating industrial past and scenic riverside setting.
Duckett's Grove
8.6 km
Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins and restored gardens of Duckett's Grove, a 19th-century Gothic mansion in County Carlow, Ireland.
Essential places to dine
Billies Grill and Chinese Restaurant -Coffee House
0.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of Irish warmth and authentic Chinese flavors at Billies Grill in Carlow.
Caffé 500
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors at Caffé 500 in Carlow - where every meal feels like a special occasion.
The Lazy River Café
0.2 km
Discover delightful breakfasts and cozy ambiance at The Lazy River Café in Graiguecullen, Carlow - perfect for your next culinary adventure.
Melt
0.3 km
Discover the ultimate brunch experience at Melt in Carlow—where delicious flavors meet cozy vibes for an unforgettable meal.
Pimento
0.3 km
Discover Pimento in Carlow - where authentic Spanish tapas meet warm hospitality for an unforgettable dining experience.
Tully's Bar Carlow
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish hospitality at Tully's Bar Carlow - where good food meets great music in a cozy setting.
Country Kitchen
0.4 km
Experience authentic Irish comfort food at Country Kitchen in Carlow - where local flavors meet cozy dining.
Neko Asian Street Food
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Discover authentic Asian flavors at Neko Asian Street Food in Carlow, where every dish tells a story of culinary tradition.
Brooks Cafe Bar
0.4 km
Experience local flavors at Brooks Cafe Bar in Carlow - where culinary delight meets cozy ambiance.
Lemongrass Restaurant Carlow
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Experience exquisite Asian Fusion dining at Lemongrass Restaurant in Carlow – where every dish tells a story of flavor.
The Clink
0.4 km
Discover authentic Irish flavors at The Clink - a cozy restaurant in Carlow offering exceptional cuisine and warm hospitality.
The Terrace
0.4 km
Experience Carlow's vibrant culture at The Terrace - a charming beer garden offering local brews and delicious bites amidst lush greenery.
Mimosa Bar de Tapas
0.5 km
Experience exquisite tapas and fine wines at Mimosa Bar de Tapas in Carlow - a culinary gem with an enchanting outdoor beer garden.
Brasserie 15
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Discover the warmth of family dining at Brasserie 15 in Carlow – where delicious meals meet friendly service.
Lennons @ Visual
0.6 km
Experience the essence of Irish cuisine at Lennons @ Visual in Carlow - where every meal tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Moldova Stores Carlow
0.2 km
Explore the diverse flavors of Eastern Europe at Moldova Stores Carlow, your go-to grocery destination for authentic Moldovan products.
Allens of Carlow
0.2 km
Discover the heart of Irish craftsmanship at Allens of Carlow, your destination for unique gifts and home goods.
Shaws Department Stores Carlow
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Explore Shaws Department Stores in Carlow for exceptional shopping, featuring fashion, homeware, and unique local gifts.
Trendy Curve's
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Explore Trendy Curve's in Graigue, Carlow - your go-to clothing store for unique and stylish fashion finds.
Penneys
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Explore Penneys in Carlow for stylish and affordable fashion, perfect for every trendsetter and savvy shopper!
Haddens Centre
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New you boutique Ireland
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Savana: DECK & White Stuff Clothing Ireland
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Little Surprise
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MrPRICE Carlow
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Touch Of Class
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Dealz
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Pretty Please Boutique
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Carlow Shopping Centre
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KB Toys And Gifts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Corcoran's Bar
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Dicey Reilly's
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The Thatch
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Brennan's Lounge
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The Castle Tavern
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Discover the authentic Irish pub experience at The Castle Tavern in Carlow, where local brews and warm hospitality await.
Stonehaven Lounge
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Discover the warmth and hospitality of Stonehaven Lounge, Carlow's favorite bar, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration.
Harry Burkes Bar
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Discover the vibrant ambiance and exquisite drinks at Harry Burkes Bar, a top destination in Carlow's nightlife scene.
Scraggs Alley
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Experience the best of Irish culture at Scraggs Alley, Carlow's premier pub, known for its cozy atmosphere and exceptional Guinness.
The Foundry Nightclub
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Dive into the nightlife of Carlow at The Foundry Nightclub, where great music and a lively atmosphere await every weekend.
Carpe Diem
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Experience the charm of Carlow at Carpe Diem, where traditional Irish hospitality meets modern comfort in a cozy pub atmosphere.
The Barracks
0.5 km
Discover The Barracks, Carlow's premier bar and nightclub, offering exquisite cocktails, live music, and an energetic atmosphere for unforgettable nights.
The Irishmans Bar
0.5 km
Experience the heart of Irish hospitality at The Irishman's Bar in Carlow, where local brews and traditional fare create unforgettable moments.
The Med Bar
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Carlow at The Med Bar, where local charm meets a lively atmosphere and a diverse drink selection.
Racey Byrnes Bar
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Experience authentic Irish hospitality at Racey Byrnes Bar in Carlow, where local brews, hearty meals, and vibrant entertainment await.
Carpenters Bar & Lounge
0.7 km
Experience the warmth and charm of Carpenters Bar & Lounge, a beloved pub in Carlow offering local drinks and vibrant atmosphere.
