Dromore Castle: A Ruined Lakeside Fortress

Dromore Castle, or Caisleán Dhrom Mór in Irish, is a historic tower house located in County Clare, Ireland, near the towns of Crusheen and Corofin. Situated on a peninsula in the northern part of Dromore Lake, the castle is part of the Dromore Wood Nature Reserve. The castle likely dates back to the early 16th century. In the 17th century, Teige O'Brien of the O'Brien clan expanded and repaired the structure. The O'Brien family had been granted the castle and lands in 1579. The castle itself is four stories high, featuring a vaulted ground floor. A wide circular staircase is located to the right of the main door, while a small guardroom sits to the left. The first floor includes a stone fireplace in the left-hand chamber. A circular shot hole is cut into the stairs between the first and second floors. The roof features a chemin de ronde around the gables and a high rectangular chimney. The inscription over the door reads: "This castle was built by Teige, second sone to Connor, third Earle of Thomond and by Slany Brien wife to the said Teige Anno [date illegible]". Today, Dromore Castle stands as a ruin, but it remains a captivating site for visitors. The castle is not open to the public due to safety concerns, but its exterior can be viewed from a distance. The surrounding Dromore Wood Nature Reserve offers scenic walks and opportunities to explore the area's natural environment.