Blarney Stone: Kiss Your Way to Good Fortune

Discover the enchanting Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle, where history, beauty, and the gift of eloquence await every traveler.

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Blarney Stone

The Blarney Stone, located in the historic Blarney Castle, is one of Ireland's most iconic attractions. Visitors flock here to kiss the stone and receive the gift of eloquence, while exploring the stunning gardens and rich history of the castle.

A brief summary to Blarney Stone

Cork, Blarney, T23 Y598, IE
+353214385252
Visit website

Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the gardens and climbing to the stone involves some walking.
Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views from the castle's towers.
Consider visiting the on-site café for a taste of local Irish cuisine after your tour.
Check the castle's schedule for any special events or guided tours that might enhance your experience.

Getting There

Car

If you are traveling by car, head towards the N20 road from any location in County Cork. Follow the N20 northbound and take the exit for the R617 towards Blarney. Continue on the R617 until you reach Blarney village. Once in the village, follow the signs for Blarney Castle, where the Blarney Stone is located. There is parking available at the castle, but be aware that there may be a parking fee of around €5. The castle and gardens are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Public Transportation

For those using public transportation, take a bus from Cork City to Blarney. Bus routes such as the 215 or 220 operate frequently from Parnell Place Bus Station in Cork City. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Once you arrive in Blarney, it’s a short walk to Blarney Castle. Follow the signs towards the castle, which is about a 10-15 minute walk from the bus stop. The entrance fee to the castle grounds, where the Blarney Stone is located, is approximately €18 for adults.
Taxi

Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Cork City to Blarney, which will take around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi fares may vary, but you can expect to pay approximately €20-€30 for the trip. Make sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Blarney Stone

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of County Cork, the Blarney Stone is a legendary tourist attraction that draws visitors from around the world. Situated at Blarney Castle, this unique stone is famously known for bestowing the gift of eloquence upon those who kiss it. The castle itself, dating back to 1446, is a stunning example of medieval architecture, surrounded by lush gardens and enchanting landscapes. As you approach the castle, you will be greeted by the sight of its imposing stone walls, ivy-clad towers, and the captivating beauty of the surrounding grounds, which are perfect for leisurely walks and exploration. Kissing the Blarney Stone is a rite of passage for many tourists, but the experience is about more than just a quick peck. The stone is located at the very top of the castle, requiring a bit of a climb, which adds to the adventure. The tradition is steeped in folklore, with tales of its magical powers to grant eloquence and persuasive speech. As you lean backwards to kiss the stone, be sure to take in the breathtaking views of the lush countryside stretching out before you. Beyond the stone, the gardens of Blarney Castle are a highlight for nature lovers. With over 60 acres of beautifully manicured grounds, visitors can wander through the Poison Garden, the Rock Close, and the serene lake area. Each corner of the garden offers a unique experience, showcasing a variety of plants and trees, some of which are rare and exotic. Whether you're an admirer of history, a lover of nature, or just looking to embrace a bit of Irish charm, Blarney Castle and the Blarney Stone promise an unforgettable visit filled with stories, beauty, and a touch of magic.

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Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle

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Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)

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Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)

Cork Historic Walking Tours

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Nano Nagle Bridge

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Father Mathew Statue

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Nano Nagle Place

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Red Abbey Tower

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Eamon de Valera Bridge

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Dundanion House Bridge

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Blackrock Castle Observatory

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Island Wedge Tomb

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Carrigadrohid Castle

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Old Church

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Cobh

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Unmissable attractions to see

Blarney Castle & Gardens

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Witch’s Yew Tree

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Rock Close

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Blarney Castle House(Teach Caisleán na Blarnan)

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Blarney Castle House(Teach Caisleán na Blarnan)

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Blarney Castle & Gardens(Gairdíní Chaisleán na Blarnan)

Blarney Woollen Mills

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Old Cork Waterworks Experience

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Cork City Gaol

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Fitzgerald Park

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Cork Public Museum

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Cathedral of St Mary & St Anne, Shandon

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The Butter Museum

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Shandon Clock Tower

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Essential places to dine

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The Model Farm

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Franciscan Well Brewery & Brewpub

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Perrotts Garden Bistro Restaurant

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The River Club

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Orchids Restaurant

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The Four Liars Bistro

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Ichigo Ichie Bistro and Natural Wine

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51 Cornmarket

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Tony's Bistro

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The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega

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Dwyers of Cork

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Liberty Grill

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The SpitJack Cork

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Blarney Stone: Kiss Your Way to Good Fortune

A brief summary to Blarney Stone

Local tips

Getting There

Car

Public Transportation

Taxi

Unlock the Best of Blarney Stone

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Blarney Stone

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle

Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)

Cork Historic Walking Tours

National Monument - Cork

Nano Nagle Bridge

Father Mathew Statue

Nano Nagle Place

Red Abbey Tower

Eamon de Valera Bridge

Dundanion House Bridge

Blackrock Castle Observatory

Island Wedge Tomb

Carrigadrohid Castle

Old Church

Cobh

Unmissable attractions to see

Blarney Castle & Gardens

Witch’s Yew Tree

Rock Close

Blarney Castle House(Teach Caisleán na Blarnan)

Blarney Castle & Gardens(Gairdíní Chaisleán na Blarnan)

Blarney Woollen Mills

Old Cork Waterworks Experience

Cork City Gaol

Fitzgerald Park

Cork Public Museum

University College Cork

Cathedral of St Mary & St Anne, Shandon

The Butter Museum

Historic Buildings of Pope's Quay

Shandon Clock Tower

Essential places to dine

The Anglers Bar & Restaurant

The Model Farm

Franciscan Well Brewery & Brewpub

Perrotts Garden Bistro Restaurant

The River Club

Orchids Restaurant

Paradiso

The Four Liars Bistro

Ichigo Ichie Bistro and Natural Wine

51 Cornmarket

Tony's Bistro

The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega

Dwyers of Cork

Liberty Grill

The SpitJack Cork

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Erin Giftstore

Castlewest Shopping Centre

Snout

Corkabilia

Glucksman shop

Wilton Shopping Centre

Blackpool Shopping Centre

MrPRICE Cork City

Agora

Handcrafts Cork

St Anthony Stores

Peacock & Ruby

The Cornmarket Centre

Casa Craft

Vibes & Scribes Bookshop

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Alibi Bar + Kitchen

The Silly Goose

Impala