Blarney Castle

Welcome to Blarney Castle, the home of the Blarney Stone

Built nearly six hundred years ago by one of Ireland's greatest chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy, and has been attracting attention ever since. Over the last few hundred years, millions have flocked to Blarney making it a world landmark and one of Ireland's greatest treasures.
Now that might have something to do with the Blarney Stone, the legendary Stone of Eloquence, found at the top of our tower. Kiss it and you'll never again be lost for words. For over 200 years, world statesmen, literary giants, and legends of the silver screen have joined the millions of pilgrims climbing the steps to kiss the Blarney Stone and gain the gift of eloquence

There are those who think that you come to Blarney Castle only to see the Stone. But most leave knowing that the Blarney Stone is only a part of our attraction. 

Badger's Cave

When Cromwell's general, Lord Broghill, besieged the castle, he fired down from Card Hill above the lake and broke the tower walls. Yet when he entered the castle, he found only two trusty old retainers. The main garrison had fled through this cave Badgers Cave.

The Court

Against the east wall of the Castle, you can see the ruins of a late eighteenth-century Gothic mansion, known as 'the Court', and built in 1739 by the Jeffereys, who bought the Castle in 1703, but found it rather uncomfortable to live in. 

The Dungeon

Beneath the tower house that we know as Blarney Castle, you will find a labyrinth of underground passages and chambers, dating from different periods in the Castle history. Now mostly inaccessible, many are beyond the most intrepid explorer. If you do venture within, you will find the chambers of what is believed to have been the Castle prison. 

The Witch Stone

It takes little imagination to see who is imprisoned here. The Witch of Blarney has been with us since the dawn of time. Some say it was she who first told MacCarthy of the power of the Blarney Stone. Fortunately for visitors, she only escapes the witch stone after nightfall - and we close at dusk.

The Estate

Visitors to Blarney Castle should bring a picnic. The true magic of the location is revealed to those who venture out into the numerous walks around the Estate.

Time Passes Slowly...

This is Blarney. This is Ireland. Don't be in such a hurry to see things.