Built by the Shortall family, who occupied it until around 1640, Clara Castle near Kilkenny city is considered one of the best-preserved tower houses in Ireland, retaining much of its original oak panelling and internal fittings. Six storeys tall with intact vaulting, it is a benchmark example of Irish tower-house architecture.
Visiting Clara Castle
Yes, OPW National Monument, key available locally for access
"Built by the Shortall family, who occupied it until around 1640, Clara Castle near Kilkenny city is considered one of the best-preserved tower houses in Ireland, retaining much of its original oak panelling and internal fittings."
Where to stay nearby
The closest castle hotel is Kilkea Castle, 38.2 km away in Castledermot — Built in 1180 by Hugh de Lacy for Sir Walter de Riddlesford; the surviving keep is largely 15th-century and it was the principal seat of the FitzGerald Earls of Kildare for around seven centuries.
Nearest castle hotel · 38.2 km
Kilkea Castle
Castledermot, Co. Kildare · 4-star
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