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Castle · Killarney, Kerry
Ross Castle
15th-century tower castle of the O'Donoghue Mór clan, on the shore of the Lough Leane, with guided tours of the furnished floors and the quay from which boats depart to the lakes.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Ross Castle
Ross Castle was built in the 15th century, probably by the Irish chieftain O'Donoghue Mór, on the Ross Island peninsula, on the shore of the Lough Leane, the largest of Killarney’s lakes. It is a five-storey stone tower house, enclosed by a wall with corner towers, typical of fortified clan residences of the period.
The castle withstood the 17th-century wars and was one of the last in the Munster region to surrender to Cromwell’s forces, in 1652. According to a local legend, the defenders believed it would fall only when a ship appeared on the lake, and they surrendered when the English brought boats up the river. Later the castle passed to the Browne family, Earls of Kenmare, and served as a barracks until the 19th century.
Interior visits are always guided, in small groups, and climb the spiral staircase to the floors furnished with 16th- and 17th-century pieces, including the great hall at the top with its wooden ceiling. The staircase is narrow and steep, and access is difficult for those with reduced mobility.
Boats depart from the nearby quay to tour the lakes in season, and to make the circuit via the Gap of Dunloe. Ross Island, connected to the castle, has forest trails and ancient Bronze Age copper mines. The castle usually opens from March to early November.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
45 minutes for the guided tour; an extra hour for the Ross Island trails or a boat trip.
Best time
In the late afternoon for the light over the Lough Leane, or at the first hour of the morning. The castle usually opens from March to early November; in summer queues for the guided tour increase.
How to get there
It is about 3 km from Killarney town centre via Ross Road, with access on foot, by bicycle or by carriage through the national park. There is parking beside the castle.
Tip
Guided tour places are first-come, first-served; arrive early in summer. Afterwards, walk the Ross Island trails to the viewpoint over the lake.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ross Castle
Is Ross Castle open all year?
No. It usually opens from March until early November. Check opening times on the Irish State heritage authority's website.
Is the visit guided?
Yes. The interior is only visited with a guide, in small groups, on a first-come basis.
Do boats depart from Ross Castle?
Yes. From the adjacent quay, in season, boats operate on the lakes and those that do the Gap of Dunloe circuit.