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Kilcrea Castle: A Ruined Medieval Tower House

Explore the medieval ruins of Kilcrea Castle, a 15th-century tower house near Cork City, offering a glimpse into Ireland's past.

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Kilcrea Castle, a ruined 15th-century tower house with a bawn, is located near Kilcrea Friary, west of Cork City. Built by Cormac Laidir MacCarthy, it stands as a testament to medieval Irish architecture and history. Although in ruins and on private land, the castle is accessible to visitors and offers a glimpse into the past.

A brief summary to Kilcrea Castle(Caisleán Chill Chré)

  • 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 Kilcrea Friary, located a short walk from the castle. Park in front of the Friary to visit both sites.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the ground around the castle can be uneven.
  • Be mindful that the castle is on private land, currently serving as a cattle farm.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    To reach Kilcrea Castle by car, take the N22 road from Cork City towards Macroom. After approximately 20 kilometers, exit onto the R618. Continue on the R618 for about 4 kilometers until you see signs for Kilcrea Castle. The castle is located just off the R618. Parking is available near Kilcrea Friary, a short walk from the castle. Note that there are no parking fees.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Kilcrea Castle via public transport, take Bus Éireann route 233 from Cork City to Farran. From Farran, you can take a taxi to Kilcrea Castle, which is approximately 5 kilometers away. Taxi fares typically range from €10-€15. Alternatively, you can walk from Farran to Kilcrea Castle, which is a 45-60 minute walk.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Kilcrea, the castle is easily accessible by foot from Kilcrea Friary. From the parking area at the friary, follow the path leading west towards the castle. The walk is short, approximately 500 meters, and will take you through a field. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear as the terrain may be uneven.

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Discover more about Kilcrea Castle(Caisleán Chill Chré)

Nestled in the valley of the River Bride, Kilcrea Castle is a ruined five-story tower house and bawn dating back to the 15th century. Completed around 1465 by Cormac Laidir MacCarthy, the 9th Lord of Muskerry, it was built on a site possibly dating back to the Bronze Age. The castle faces north towards the river, with the tower house on the western side and the bawn, or defensive enclosure, on the east. Kilcrea Castle, along with the nearby Kilcrea Friary, was constructed as a stronghold and a place of worship. The castle saw its share of conflict, including raids by English troops in the late 16th century. Today, the castle is on private farmland, but visitors can still explore the ruins. The castle is a short walk from the Kilcrea Friary. The bawn originally featured two square towers, but only one remains. Despite being in ruins, Kilcrea Castle offers a tangible connection to medieval Ireland and the legacy of the MacCarthy clan.

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