Blarney Castle & Gardens

Blarney Castle, situated in the picturesque village of Blarney, just 8 kilometers northwest of Cork City, is one of Ireland’s most iconic and beloved attractions. This medieval fortress, built nearly six hundred years ago by Cormac MacCarthy, has been a magnet for visitors from around the world. The castle’s fame is largely due to the legendary Blarney Stone, said to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it. Beyond the stone, Blarney Castle offers a rich history, stunning gardens, and a variety of unique attractions that make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Ireland.

History

Blarney Castle has a fascinating history that spans centuries. The first castle was built from timber before 1200, while the second stone castle was constructed around 1210. However, it was destroyed in 1446. The current castle was rebuilt by Cormac Láidir MacCarthy and has undergone several transformations over the years, including being besieged during the Irish Confederate Wars and seized by Parliamentarian forces in 1646. The castle has been owned by various families, including the Earls of Clancarty, before being purchased by Sir James St. John Jefferyes in the early 16th century.

How to Get There

Blarney Castle is easily accessible from Cork City and other major Irish cities. Here are the directions:

– From Cork Airport:
– Follow signs for City Centre.
– From City Centre, follow signs for Limerick (N20).
– Travel for 7 km; exit left (signposted Blarney).
– Arrive at Blarney.

– From Shannon:
– By Car: Follow the road to Limerick, then signs for Mallow, and take the turn off before Cork City to Blarney.
– By Bus: There is a direct bus from Shannon Airport to Cork City. Check www.buseireann.ie for information on bus timetables.

– From Dublin:
– By Car: It takes 3-4 hours to get from Dublin to Cork. Take the N8 motorway and follow signs south for Cork, then on to Blarney.
– Public Transport: Trains leave for Cork on a regular basis. Check www.irishrail.ie for further information on timetables. Alternatively, use Aircoach, which leaves Dublin airport eight times a day directly for Cork.

Attractions

Blarney Castle offers a plethora of attractions that make it a fascinating destination:

1. The Blarney Stone:
– Located at the top of the castle tower, this legendary stone is said to grant the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.

2. The Castle:
– Explore the impressive fortification and its various rooms, including the chapel, banqueting hall, and family room.

3. The Gardens:
– The gardens feature an exceptional collection of specimen trees, a 100-meter-long herbaceous border, and an 80-meter rose pergola.

4. The Poison Garden:
– This garden educates visitors about poisonous plants found in both Ireland and around the world.

5. The Dungeon:
– Discover the castle’s dungeon, which includes a dog kennel and sentry box guarding the entrance to the castle.

6. The Walls and Bawn:
– Learn about the defensive walls that once surrounded the castle, enclosing an area of about 8 acres called the bawn.

7. The Seven Sisters:
– Just northeast of the castle, you can find another stone with legends attached to it.

Ticket Information

Ticket prices for Blarney Castle vary depending on the time of year and visitor type:

– Adult Admission: €22
– Student/Seniors (65 years and over): €17
– Children (6-16 years / 5 & under free): €10
– Family (2 adults + 2 children): €55.

Tickets can be bought in advance online or at the ticket office on arrival.

Tips for Visiting

1. Arrive Early:
– To avoid the crowds, consider visiting early in the morning. The castle opens at 9:00 AM, and it’s best to arrive before the tour buses bring in the crowds.

2. Explore Beyond the Stone:
– While the Blarney Stone is a must-see, there are many other unique attractions within the castle and gardens that are often overlooked. Take time to explore the gardens, poison garden, and dungeon.

3. Book Tickets in Advance:
– To ensure entry, especially during peak season, book your tickets online in advance. This also helps you avoid long queues at the ticket office.

4. Plan Your Day Trip:
– Blarney Castle is an excellent place to visit on a day trip from Cork. Combine your visit with exploring Cork City and other nearby attractions.

5. Be Prepared for Crowds:
– Despite the early arrival, be prepared for crowds, especially during peak tourist season. The castle grounds can get quite busy, so plan your itinerary accordingly.

Blarney Castle is a treasure trove of history, beauty, and legend. Whether you’re interested in medieval architecture, lush gardens, or the allure of the Blarney Stone, this castle has something for everyone. With proper planning and a bit of insider knowledge, your visit to Blarney Castle can be an unforgettable experience.