Blarney Castle Tours

Blarney Castle featuring heritage architecture, heritage elements and a castle
Walk in the footsteps of ancient kings, wander amid mystical gardens and kiss the venerated Blarney Stone at this centuries-old castle.

Visit Blarney Castle to see dungeons, towers and ramparts of a fortress dating back to the 15th century. Marvel at the colorful flower displays of the perfectly groomed gardens and enjoy picnics on pristine lawns. Climb to the Blarney Stone, said to grant the gift of eloquence to all who kiss it. Today’s Blarney Castle is the third structure on the site and was established in 1446 by the then King of Munster.

Take a self-guided tour of the castle and gardens. A good place to start is at the main castle building. Peek inside the Badger’s Cave soldiers fled through this passageway during a siege by Oliver Cromwell’s army. Look down into the eerie dungeon to find a maze of underground tunnels and chambers. Look for the Court, set against the castle’s eastern wall, which is all that remains of a Gothic mansion built by the noble Jeffereys family in the 1700s.

Climb the steps of the tower to the famous Blarney Stone. Hold onto the rails, lean back and kiss the stone to receive the mythical gift of eloquence. There are many legends attached to the stone’s origins. One states that Robert the Bruce gave it to Cormac McCarthy, King of Munster in gratitude for support during the Battle of Bannockburn. Another suggests that it was Jacob’s pillow, brought to Ireland by the prophet Jeremiah.

Stroll along the pathways winding around the castle’s magnificent gardens. Admire colorful herbaceous borders, spot poisonous plants from around the world and learn about the folklore of native Irish plant species. Gaze up at rare and exotic trees in the peaceful arboretum.

Discover unique rock formations in the Rock Close garden. The Druid’s Altar, Wishing Steps and Witch’s Kitchen all tell stories of a fascinating medieval past.

Blarney Castle is about a 15-minute drive northwest of Cork. A public bus service operates between the castle and Cork. Use free parking available outside the main entrance.

The castle is open daily and has an admission fee. Purchase tickets online to benefit from discounts. Check the castle’s official website for full details.

Browse tours and tickets to explore Blarney Castle

Reviews of Blarney Castle

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Top Destination
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5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Aug 22, 2019

Leave plenty of time to visit the groups. You could easily spend half a day or more walking through the gardens. The Poison Garden was really cool to see and very informative.

5/5 - Excellent

Gina
Jul 9, 2019

If you go after noon, the line to tour the castle and kiss the Blarney stone at the top is not very long.

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Jan 12, 2019

Make sure you have enough time to walk around the beautiful grounds.

4/5 - Good

Martie
Dec 16, 2018

Enjoyed the gardens

5/5 - Excellent

Lisa
Oct 24, 2018

Beautiful grounds! Leave time to hike around the property in addition to checking out the castle. Really nicely maintained!

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler
Oct 15, 2018

Do not miss.  LOTS to see - beautiful and fascinating property

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Best Lodging Options Near Blarney Castle

The Metropole Hotel
The Metropole Hotel
4 out of 5
MacCurtain Street, Cork, Cork
The Metropole Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.