Castlemore Moat: A Norman Relic in County Carlow

Explore Castlemore Moat in County Carlow: Discover Norman history and scenic beauty at this ancient castle site and national monument.

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Castlemore Moat

Castlemore Moat, located in Raheenkillane, Co. Carlow, is the remains of a 12th-century motte-and-bailey castle built by Raymond FitzGerald, a commander in the Norman invasion of Ireland. Today, visitors can see the artificial hill (motte) and a standing stone with a Latin cross, offering a glimpse into Ireland's Norman past.

A brief summary to Castlemore Moat

Raheenkillane, Co. Carlow, IE

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the site.
Bring a camera to capture the views and historical features.
Check the weather forecast before visiting.

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Getting There

Walking

If you are in Raheenkillane, Castlemore Moat is accessible by foot. From the village center, walk northwest on local roads, following signs for Castlemore Moat. The walk is approximately 20 minutes and relatively straightforward.
Public Transport

To reach Castlemore Moat via public transport, take a bus from Carlow town to Hacketstown. Bus Éireann provides service to Hacketstown. Upon arrival in Hacketstown, take a taxi to Raheenkillane, as there may not be public transport directly to the site. Taxi fares vary, so it is best to confirm the cost before you start your trip. Bus fare from Carlow to Hacketstown is approximately €5-€10. Taxi from Hacketstown to Raheenkillane is approximately €15-€25.
Car

If driving from Carlow town, head southwest on the N80 towards the R724. Continue on the R724 until you reach a junction at Ballon. Take the R726 towards Hacketstown. After approximately 5 kilometers, look for signs for Raheenkillane. Follow the signs to Castlemore Moat. Limited parking is available near the site.

Discover more about Castlemore Moat

Castlemore Moat, situated in the serene landscapes of County Carlow, is a captivating historical site marked by its ancient castle remains and impressive moat. This location provides a window into Ireland's Norman history, dating back to the 12th century.Built by Raymond FitzGerald, also known as Raymond le Gros, the castle was a strategic stronghold in the Norman invasion of Ireland. FitzGerald was granted the surrounding lands of Forth O'Nolan and married Basilia, sister of Strongbow, further cementing his influence in the region. The site was then known as Fothered or Castletown, before becoming Castlemore.Today, the most prominent feature is the motte, a man-made hill approximately 9 meters (30 ft) high. While the bailey and wooden structures are long gone, the motte remains as a testament to Norman engineering and strategic placement. A standing stone, bearing a Latin cross with a base, adds another layer of historical intrigue to the site. The motte isn't perfectly circular, measuring roughly 18 meters east-to-west and 13 meters north-to-south.Visitors to Castlemore Moat can immerse themselves in the tranquil Irish countryside, enjoying panoramic views and a sense of connection to the past. The site is ideal for leisurely exploration, photography, and peaceful picnics amidst nature.