Newtown Castle: A Burren Sentinel

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Discover a unique 16th-century tower house in the Burren, blending history, art, and stunning Irish scenery.

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Newtown Castle

Newtown Castle, a unique 16th-century cylindrical tower house rising from a square base, stands near Ballyvaughan in County Clare's Burren region. Originally an O'Brien stronghold, it later became an O'Loghlen family residence, and now serves as part of the Burren College of Art.

A brief summary to Newtown Castle

Newtown, Co. Clare, H91 H299, IE
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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

Local tips

Check the Burren College of Art's website for the most up-to-date visitor information and opening hours.
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the castle's history and significance.
Bring a camera to capture the unique architecture and beautiful Burren landscape.

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Burren Hill Walks

Explore the Majestic Burren Hill Walks

Ballyvaughan Pier

Ballyvaughan Pier: A Scenic Gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way

Aillwee Burren Experience

Discover the Wonders of Aillwee Burren Experience

Getting There

Driving

Newtown Castle is located off the N67, approximately 1.5 miles (2.5 km) southwest of Ballyvaughan. From Ballyvaughan, follow the N67 towards Lisdoonvarna. The castle will be on the right. There is no fee to visit the castle. Parking is available near the Burren College of Art.
Public Transport

From Galway, take Bus Éireann route 350 to Ballyvaughan. From Ballyvaughan, it is approximately a 30-minute walk (1.5 miles) to Newtown Castle along the N67. A taxi from Ballyvaughan is also an option. Bus Éireann single fares from Galway to Ballyvaughan typically cost around €10-€15. A short taxi ride from Ballyvaughan to the castle will cost approximately €8-€12.
Walking

From Ballyvaughan, Newtown Castle is approximately a 30-minute walk (1.5 miles) along the N67. Follow the N67 southwest out of Ballyvaughan. The castle will be on your right, just past the Burren College of Art. Be aware that the N67 can be a busy road, so exercise caution while walking.

Discover more about Newtown Castle

Newtown Castle, a distinctive landmark in County Clare, is a 16th-century tower house with a unique design. Unlike most Irish tower houses, Newtown Castle features a cylindrical tower atop a square, pyramid-shaped base, giving it a striking appearance. The castle was originally built for a branch of the O'Brien clan around 1550. It later came into the possession of the O'Loghlen family, a powerful local clan; Charles O'Loghlen was known as the "King of the Burren" in the 1830s, and Peter O'Loghlen was known as the “Prince of Burren” in the late 1800s. By the late 19th century, the castle had fallen into ruin but was restored in 1993-94. A new roof cone, made of seven tons of Irish oak, was installed in June 1994. Today, Newtown Castle is part of the Burren College of Art, hosting exhibitions, events, and even wedding ceremonies. The castle's interior features a spiral staircase connecting its five levels. The ground floor, with its 12-foot thick walls, was originally used for food storage. The upper floors have narrow windows and gun loops for defense. The main hall on the third floor offers panoramic views of the Burren landscape, including Galway Bay, Connemara, and Corkscrew Hill. Visitors can also explore the Newtown Nature Trail, a short walk near the castle.