Blarney Castle & Gardens: Kiss Eloquence into Your Life
Discover the legendary Blarney Castle & Gardens in County Cork, Ireland. Kiss the Blarney Stone and explore enchanting gardens and historic ruins.
Blarney Castle, a medieval stronghold near Cork, Ireland, is famous for the Blarney Stone. Kissing it supposedly grants the 'gift of the gab'. The castle, dating back to 1446, is surrounded by extensive gardens featuring diverse landscapes and intriguing attractions.
A brief summary to Blarney Castle & Gardens
- Cork, Blarney, IE
- +353214385252
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 9 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early or late in the day to avoid the largest crowds, especially during peak season.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the castle and gardens.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs.
- Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the castle and gardens are primarily outdoor attractions.
- Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and ensure entry.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Cork city center, take the Bus Éireann route 215 directly to Blarney. The bus departs from O'Connell Street and stops a short walk from the castle entrance. The journey takes approximately 23 minutes. A single fare costs between €4 and €6. Check the Bus Éireann website for the most up-to-date schedule.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Cork city center. A taxi from the city center to Blarney Castle takes around 17 minutes. Expect to pay between €20 and €25 for the ride.
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Driving
If driving from Cork, follow the signs for Limerick (N20) and then take the exit for Blarney (R617). The journey is approximately 8 km and takes about 15 minutes. Free parking is available on-site at Blarney Castle. However, a parking fee of €2 is charged.
Discover more about Blarney Castle & Gardens
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blarney Stone
0.0 km
Experience the magic of the Blarney Stone at breathtaking Blarney Castle, where history, beauty, and charm await every visitor.
Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne's Church
7.1 km
Experience history and breathtaking views at Shandon Bells & Tower, Cork's iconic landmark and a must-visit tourist attraction.
Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle
7.3 km
Discover the historic Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle in Cork's scenic The Lough area, open daily for a reflective journey into the past.
Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)
7.4 km
Explore Cork's Medieval City Wall: A journey through history in the heart of the city, revealing ancient defenses and architectural ingenuity.
National Monument - Cork
7.6 km
Discover the National Monument in Cork, a stunning historical landmark celebrating Ireland's rich heritage and independence.
Nano Nagle Bridge
7.6 km
Experience the beauty and history of Nano Nagle Bridge in Cork, an architectural marvel connecting communities and offering stunning riverside views.
Father Mathew Statue
7.6 km
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Eamon de Valera Bridge
8.1 km
Discover the Eamon de Valera Bridge in Cork, a stunning architectural landmark steeped in history, perfect for leisurely strolls and breathtaking views.
Dundanion House Bridge
10.9 km
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Carrigadrohid Castle
19.5 km
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Old Church
20.1 km
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Cobh
20.7 km
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1 Pearse Square
20.9 km
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Stone of Destiny - Site of Battle of Kinsale
23.4 km
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Whitecastle
24.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Witch’s Yew Tree
0.2 km
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Rock Close
0.2 km
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Blarney Castle & Gardens(Gairdíní Chaisleán na Blarnan)
0.3 km
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Blarney Woollen Mills
0.6 km
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Old Cork Waterworks Experience
5.7 km
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Cork City Gaol
5.9 km
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Fitzgerald Park
6.3 km
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Cork Public Museum
6.4 km
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Cathedral of St Mary & St Anne, Shandon
7.0 km
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The Butter Museum
7.1 km
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Historic Buildings of Pope's Quay
7.1 km
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Shandon Clock Tower
7.1 km
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St Anne's Church Shandon Bells & Tower
7.1 km
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St. Peter's
7.1 km
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The Coal Quay
7.2 km
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Essential places to dine
The Anglers Bar & Restaurant
3.5 km
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The Model Farm
4.9 km
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Franciscan Well Brewery & Brewpub
6.8 km
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Perrotts Garden Bistro Restaurant
7.0 km
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The River Club
7.0 km
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Orchids Restaurant
7.0 km
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Paradiso
7.0 km
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The Four Liars Bistro
7.1 km
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Ichigo Ichie Bistro and Natural Wine
7.1 km
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51 Cornmarket
7.2 km
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Tony's Bistro
7.2 km
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The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega
7.2 km
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Dwyers of Cork
7.3 km
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Liberty Grill
7.3 km
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The SpitJack Cork
7.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Erin Giftstore
0.4 km
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Castlewest Shopping Centre
4.7 km
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Snout
4.8 km
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Corkabilia
6.6 km
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Glucksman shop
6.7 km
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Wilton Shopping Centre
6.9 km
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Blackpool Shopping Centre
7.0 km
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MrPRICE Cork City
7.2 km
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Agora
7.2 km
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Handcrafts Cork
7.2 km
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St Anthony Stores
7.2 km
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Peacock & Ruby
7.3 km
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The Cornmarket Centre
7.3 km
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Casa Craft
7.3 km
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Vibes & Scribes Bookshop
7.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alibi Bar + Kitchen
7.2 km
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The Silly Goose
7.2 km
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Impala
7.2 km
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The Black Dog
7.2 km
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Gaia
7.3 km
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The Raven Bar
7.3 km
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The Liberty Bar X Resistance
7.3 km
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Edison
7.4 km
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Sin é
7.5 km
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Mutton Lane Inn
7.5 km
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An Bróg Bar + Kitchen
7.5 km
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Le Chateau
7.5 km
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The Thomond Bar
7.6 km
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Paladar
7.6 km
Experience the artistry of cocktails at Paladar, Cork's premier cocktail bar in the vibrant Victorian Quarter.
Cask
7.7 km
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