Blarney Castle
Munster
Blarney Castle is a medieval stronghold located in Blarney, County Cork, Ireland, renowned worldwide for the Blarney Stone, which is said to bestow the gift of eloquence on those who kiss it. The current stone keep was constructed in 1446 by Cormac Láidir MacCarthy, a member of the MacCarthy of Muskerry dynasty, replacing earlier fortifications dating back to before 1200. The castle, now partially ruined, offers visitors access to battlements and several rooms, with the iconic stone positioned at the top of the tower. Surrounding the castle are extensive gardens featuring mystical rock formations such as the Druid's Circle, Witch's Cave, and Wishing Steps, as well as a poison garden showcasing various toxic plants. Adjacent to the castle lies Blarney House, a 19th-century Scottish baronial mansion set beside a lake. The castle's history is rich with sieges and ownership changes, reflecting Ireland's turbulent past. Today, Blarney Castle remains one of Ireland's greatest treasures and a popular tourist attraction drawing millions annually.
Plan your trip to Ireland with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: For the best experience, visit during spring or summer when the gardens are in full bloom and the weather is mild. Purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues, especially during peak tourist season. The castle and gardens are open year-round with varying hours, and discounted admission is available for students, seniors, and families. Be prepared to hang upside down safely to kiss the Blarney Stone, and wear suitable footwear for walking the grounds and climbing the castle steps.
Interesting facts
- •The Blarney Stone is also known as the Stone of Eloquence and is said to grant the gift of gab to those who kiss it.
- •The castle was originally built by the MacCarthy of Muskerry dynasty in 1446 after earlier fortifications were destroyed.
- •The poison garden contains several deadly plants including wolfsbane, mandrake, and opium poppies.
- •The castle was seized during the Irish Confederate Wars and later confiscated during the Williamite War in the 1690s.
- •Blarney House, near the castle, was rebuilt in 1874 in the Scottish baronial style after a fire destroyed the original house.
History
Originally, a timber structure was believed to have existed on the site before 1200, replaced by a stone fortification around 1210.
The castle was destroyed in 1446 and rebuilt by Cormac Láidir MacCarthy.
It was besieged during the Irish Confederate Wars and seized by Parliamentarian forces in 1646, later restored after the monarchy's return.
In the 1690s, during the Williamite War, the castle was confiscated from the MacCarthy family.
Ownership changed several times before Sir James Jeffreys acquired it in the early 18th century.
The Jefferyes family built Blarney House in the 19th century, which was rebuilt in 1874 after a fire, and the estate remains with the Colthurst family today.
Place Guide
The Blarney Stone1446
Located at the top of the castle tower, this famous stone is kissed by visitors who hang backwards over a sheer drop. It is reputed to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.
Castle Battlements and Rooms1446
Visitors can explore accessible rooms and climb the battlements of the partially ruined medieval castle, experiencing its historic architecture and panoramic views.
Gardens and Grounds
Extensive gardens surround the castle, featuring mystical rock formations such as the Druid's Circle, Witch's Cave, and Wishing Steps, plus a poison garden with various toxic plants.
Blarney House1874
A 19th-century Scottish baronial style mansion built in 1874 near the castle, overlooking a lake. It was constructed after the original house was destroyed by fire.
Contact
Phone: (021) 438 5252
