Built in 1446 by the MacCarthy of Muskerry dynasty on the site of an earlier c.1210 stone fortress, Blarney is one of Ireland's most visited medieval keeps. Visitors climb the battlements to kiss the famous Blarney Stone and explore the extensive gardens, including the Poison Garden and Rock Close.
Visiting Blarney Castle
Yes — partial ruin with accessible rooms and battlements; grounds, gardens and Blarney House also open daily to visitors.
Where to stay nearby
The closest castle hotel is Castlemartyr Resort, 35.75 km away in Castlemartyr — The original Castlemartyr castle was built in 1210 by the Knights Templar and later owned by Sir Walter Raleigh and Richard Boyle, 1st Earl of Cork; a 17th-century manor house was built by the Boyle family adjacent to the castle ruin, and that manor is the resort's hotel building.
Castlemartyr Resort
Castlemartyr, Co. Cork · 5-star / luxury
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