Carrigafoyle, Ballylongford, Co.Kerry (Wetlands, Wildlife)
Carrigafoyle Castle: Guardian of the Shannon Estuary
Carrigafoyle Castle: Guardian of the Shannon
Discover Carrigafoyle Castle: a 15th-century Irish tower house with a dramatic history and panoramic views of the Shannon Estuary in County Kerry.
Explore the dramatic ruins of Carrigafoyle Castle, a 15th-century tower house built by the O'Connor Kerry clan on the Shannon Estuary. Climb the 104 steps for panoramic views and delve into its turbulent history, marked by sieges and strategic importance.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Carrigafoyle Castle
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Monday
10 am-6 pm
Tuesday
10 am-6 pm
Wednesday
10 am-6 pm
Thursday
10 am-6 pm
Friday
10 am-6 pm
Saturday
10 am-6 pm
Sunday
10 am-6 pm
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Getting There
Driving
From Ballylongford, Carrigafoyle Castle is a short drive north. Follow the R551 towards Carrigafoyle. The castle is signposted and has a small car park. Parking is free. Be aware that parking is limited.
Public Transport
The Local Link Kerry Route 274 serves Ballylongford. From Ballylongford, it's approximately a 1-minute walk to the Ballylongford bus stop. From there, take the Route 274, and it is a short walk to Carrigafoyle Castle. Single fares on Local Link Kerry vary depending on the distance traveled.
Taxi
Taxis are available in Ballylongford. A taxi from Ballylongford to Carrigafoyle Castle is a short ride. Expect to pay around €15-€25 for the trip. Ensure the driver is using a meter or agree on a fare before starting your journey.
Local tips
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Wear comfortable shoes for climbing the 104 steps to the top of the castle.
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Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of the Shannon Estuary.
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Visit during the summer months for the best weather and clear views.
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Check the tide times, as access to the castle can be affected by high tide.
Discover more about Carrigafoyle Castle
Carrigafoyle Castle, a striking 15th-century tower house, stands proudly on a rocky outcrop near Ballylongford, County Kerry. Built in the 1490s by Conor Liath O'Connor of the O'Connor Kerry clan, it controlled shipping lanes to Limerick and earned the title 'Guardian of the Shannon'. The name 'Carrigafoyle' comes from the Irish 'Carraig an Phoill', meaning 'rock of the hole'.
The castle's unique features include a fortified harbor within its walls, similar to the Torre de Belém in Lisbon. The O'Connor Kerry galley fleets patrolled the Shannon, escorting merchants in return for fees. The five-story tower house rises over 24 meters, with 104 steps leading to the top.
Carrigafoyle's history is marked by conflict. In 1580, during the Second Desmond Rebellion, English forces under Sir William Pelham besieged the castle. After two days of bombardment, the castle fell, and the garrison was executed. The castle was never fully repaired and remains a ruin. Visitors can explore the partially restored structure, climb the spiral staircase, and enjoy stunning views of the Shannon Estuary. The castle is open to the public and managed by the Office of Public Works.
A brief summary to Carrigafoyle Castle
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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