Ross Castle is a 15th-century tower house on the shore of Lough Leane, in Killarney National Park in County Kerry. The O'Donoghue clan built it, and it is one of the best-known castles in the area. The stone walls rise above the water, with woods and fields around them and mountains in the distance. Guided tours take you through the banqueting hall, bedrooms and battlements. Walk the trail behind the castle, or take a boat trip on the lake.
A 15th-century tower house on Lough Leane
Ross Castle dates from around the 15th century. The O'Donoghue clan built it and lived there, and it was later linked with the Browne family of Killarney, who owned it until more recent times.
The castle is now looked after by the Irish state, and the Office of Public Works runs it. It is open every day of the week, with guided tours during the season. The official Heritage Ireland page has current details.
Inside the tower
The guided tour covers the castle's multiple floors, including the banqueting hall, the bedrooms and the battlements on the roof. Some parts of the castle can be entered without a tour.
The spiral staircase is worth a look. Its steps are of different heights, which was meant to break an attacker's stride. An exhibition on the site explains the area and the building.
The castle is a typical example of the stronghold of an Irish chieftain in the Middle Ages, so the tower and its rooms give a clear picture of how such a building was used.
The Cromwellian siege and the lake
During the Cromwellian conquest, Ross Castle was one of the last fortresses in Munster to surrender, in 1652. The usual telling says Cromwell's forces reached it by boat across Lough Leane, which fulfilled a prophecy that the castle would only fall if attacked from the water.
The lake was the key to the castle's history, and it still shapes the visit. The views across the water are the main reason many people come.
The legend of O'Donoghue Mór
A well-known legend says that O'Donoghue Mór sleeps beneath the waters of the lake. Every seven years, on 1 May, he rises on a white horse. People who see him are said to be blessed with good fortune.
The legend is still told at the castle, and it is one of the reasons the site has a strong local identity.
Getting there and walking around
You can walk to the castle from the main road, but a longer route starts at Killarney House and Gardens. Leave through the cathedral side, then follow a path that mixes open ground with forest trail. The walk takes about an hour.
From the pedestrian park entrance at St Mary's Cathedral, the castle is a 2.6 km walk or bike ride to the southwest. Horse-drawn jaunting cars are also available for a different way to arrive.
The trail to the left of the castle runs through woodland to viewpoints, and you may see deer. Views from the shore take in the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, and Carrauntoohill, Ireland's highest mountain, can be seen from the castle grounds. A café with outdoor seating is close by, and there is a car park.
Boat trips run from the castle, and you can also rent a rowing boat on the lake.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee for Ross Castle?
Guided tours carry a charge, and you can pay to enter the castle. Check the Heritage Ireland page for current prices before you go.
Do I need to book a tour in advance?
Booking ahead is recommended, because each tour has limited space. Get your tickets early, especially in busy periods.
Can I go inside the castle without a tour?
Yes, parts of the castle can be entered without a tour. A guided tour gives access to the banqueting hall, bedrooms and battlements.
How do I walk to Ross Castle from Killarney?
A walk from Killarney House and Gardens takes about an hour, through a mix of open paths and forest trail. The castle is also a 2.6 km walk or bike ride southwest of the St Mary's Cathedral pedestrian park entrance.
Is Ross Castle wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, the parking area and the seating are wheelchair accessible.
