Explore the Enchantment of Blarney Castle & Gardens
Discover the magic of Blarney Castle & Gardens, where history, beauty, and folklore intertwine in the heart of Cork, Ireland.
A brief summary to Blarney Castle & Gardens
- Cork, Blarney, 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
Blarney Castle & Gardens is a captivating historical site located in County Cork, Ireland, steeped in rich history and folklore. Dating back to the 15th century, the castle is famous for the Blarney Stone, a block of limestone set in the wall, which is said to bestow the gift of eloquence upon those who kiss it. The castle's impressive structure, surrounded by lush greenery, offers visitors a glimpse into Ireland's rich past while providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Beyond the castle itself, the extensive gardens are a highlight of any visit. Spanning over 60 acres, the gardens feature a variety of plant species, tranquil streams, and scenic pathways. The Poison Garden, for instance, showcases a variety of toxic plants, adding an intriguing twist to the botanical experience. Visitors can stroll through the beautiful grounds, which include a picturesque lake, vibrant flower beds, and ancient trees, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a picnic. Moreover, Blarney Castle is not just about the stone and the gardens; it is a place where history comes alive. Guided tours provide insight into the castle's storied past, while events and exhibitions throughout the year offer a deeper understanding of Irish culture and heritage. The visitor center houses a café and shop, where guests can savor local delicacies or pick up a souvenir to remember their enchanting visit. Whether you're kissing the Blarney Stone, wandering through the lush gardens, or simply soaking in the history, Blarney Castle & Gardens promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as exploring the gardens and castle involves a fair amount of walking.
- Don't miss the guided tours for fascinating stories about the castle's history and legends.
- Plan to spend at least half a day to fully explore the castle and gardens.
- Check the official website for any special events or exhibitions that might be happening during your visit.
Getting There
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Bus
From Cork city center, head to the Parnell Place Bus Station. Look for the bus service to Blarney Castle, typically operated by Bus Éireann. You can take either the 215 or the 220 bus which departs frequently. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. Make sure to get off at the 'Blarney Castle' stop. Once you get off the bus, you will see signs directing you to the entrance of Blarney Castle & Gardens, which is just a short walk away.
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Walking
If you prefer a scenic walk, you can walk to Blarney Castle from Cork city. Start at Patrick Street and head northwest towards the River Lee. Cross the river and continue along the riverbank until you reach Shandon Bells & Tower. From there, follow the signs towards Blarney, which is approximately a 6.5 km walk. The route will take you through beautiful countryside and eventually lead you to Blarney Castle & Gardens. Expect the walk to take around 1.5 to 2 hours.
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Taxi or Rideshare
For a more comfortable option, consider taking a taxi or using a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft (if available). Simply request a ride to 'Blarney Castle, Cork' and the driver will take you directly to the entrance. The journey typically takes about 15-20 minutes from the city center, depending on traffic. Make sure to confirm the location with the driver before starting the trip.
Attractions Nearby to Blarney Castle & Gardens
- Blarney Stone
- 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
Landmarks nearby to Blarney Castle & Gardens
- Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle
- Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)
- Cork Historic Walking Tours
- National Monument - Cork
- Nano Nagle Place
- Red Abbey Tower
- Dundanion House Bridge
- Blackrock Castle Observatory
- Island Wedge Tomb
- Carrigadrohid Castle
- Stone of Destiny - Site of Battle of Kinsale
- Whitecastle
- Camden Fort Meagher
- Kinsale Pottery | Pottery & Arts Centre Kinsale
- The K Kinsale