Top Things to do in County Clare
Things to do in County Clare, Province of Munster: The Best Castles
Discover the best top things to do in County Clare, Ireland including Smithstown Castle, Dromoland Castle, Dysert O'Dea Castle and Archaeology Centre, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Knappogue Castle, Gleninagh Castle and Fulacht Fiadh, Carrigaholt Castle, Newtown Castle, Dysert O'Dea Castle, Leamaneh Castle.
Restaurants in County Clare
1. Smithstown Castle
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
2. Dromoland Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 409 reviews
Transformed into a luxury hotel in 1962, this castle is a magnificent Renaissance structure built in the 16th century and once served as the royal seat of the O?Brien clan.
Reviewed By WeBvacations
What a wonderful stay! Just as you'd imagine it would feel to be treated like royalty. A true castle with all the comforts you'd expect. Beautifully appointed rooms, exquisite grounds, delicious food. It was all we could have hoped for. Walk, bike, boat or horse-drawn carriage ride(s) are all offered. We took the carriage and had a private tour of the grounds including some of the golf course (which our husbands loved playing!) Dinner in the formal restaurant was complete with harpist and all-around elegance. Men needed jackets for dinner and they have a complete armoire full of them to borrow! We would love to come back and stay longer next time. A true gem.
3. Dysert O'Dea Castle and Archaeology Centre
4. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 4,347 reviews
Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is a must on your itinerary to Ireland. This is your chance to experience a window on Ireland’s past and explore the acclaimed 15th century Bunratty Castle and the 19th century Bunratty Folk Park. Bunratty Castle Welcome to Bunratty Castle, the most complete and authentic medieval castle in Ireland. Built in 1425 it was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendor and now contains mainly 15th and 16th century furnishings, tapestries, and works of art which capture the mood of those times. Bunratty Folk Park Enjoy the sights, sounds tastes, scents, of this enchanting place as you stroll from house to house or around the charming village street complete with school, post office, doctors house, hardware shop, printers and of course McNamara’s pub! meet the village characters, sample some freshly baked bread by our resident Bean an Ti's (woman of the house) and for little visitors explore of quaint fairy village and pirate adventure playground
Reviewed By Ecowoman
Spent about 2 hours here exploring the past through their various buildings and re-creations. Very well done heritage park, showcasing dwellings from different regions (coast, mountain farm, strong farmer, labourer, stable, and up to the Bunratty House and the (ice cream) Brother’s home). There are animals (petting area, 2 Irish wolfhounds, donkeys, miniature ponies, fallow deer in the field, pigs, chickens, turkeys, etc), a playground for the younger kids, a tea room and pub, along with several gift shops in the village and at the entrance. The castle is more of the utilitarian style rather than one that was lived in. Functional rooms, and none made for comfort! There are lots of tight, steep and winding staircases, which may be challenging for some folks. You can get to the top of one of the towers, with a view over the River, and surrounding area. There is free parking across from the entrance, and more on the highway before turning off. If you’re interested in Mead and Poteen tasting, travel the Low Road past the park, look for the signs and turn left. Called the Bunratty Winery, and the products are made on site. Highly Recommended on a pleasant weather day, as most of the park is accessible outside. €17 pp entry.
5. Knappogue Castle
6. Gleninagh Castle and Fulacht Fiadh
7. Carrigaholt Castle
8. Newtown Castle
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 36 reviews
Newtown Castle is a beautifully restored 16th century cylindrical fortified tower house - one of only few such buildings in Ireland. Having lain derelict for many years, the castle's restoration began in 1994, completed in time for the opening of the Burren College of Art in August of that year. Newtown Castle is once again a vibrant building in daily use, central to the artistic, cultural and educational life of the Burren. It is open free of charge to the public on week days. Newtown Castle is also available for wedding ceremonies, small private functions or company events.
9. Dysert O'Dea Castle
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 26 reviews
