Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower house located on the edge of Lough Leane in Killarney National Park, Co. Kerry, is a striking example of a medieval Irish chieftain’s stronghold. Built around 1450–1500 by the O’Donoghue Mór clan, it later became associated with the Browne family and was one of the last Munster strongholds to fall to Cromwell’s forces in 1652. Fully restored and managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW), this iconic castle, set against the stunning backdrop of Lough Leane and the McGillycuddy Reeks, is a key stop on the Ring of Kerry and a highlight of Killarney’s tourism offerings. In 2023, it welcomed over 116,000 visitors, reflecting a 35% increase from 2022.
Key Attractions and Experiences:
- Guided Tours: Access to the castle’s interior is by guided tour only, running from March 2 to November 6, daily from 9:30am to 5:45pm (last admission 5:00pm). Tours, lasting about 45 minutes, accommodate up to 15 people and are first-come, first-served, with no pre-booking available. Visitors explore the four-story tower house, including the ground floor (used for storage and garrison), upper floors with living quarters, and the great hall, dining room, and bedrooms. The castle is furnished with authentic 16th- and 17th-century oak furniture and tapestries, offering a vivid glimpse into medieval life. Guides share stories of the O’Donoghue clan, the castle’s Cromwellian siege, and local legends, such as the tale of O’Donoghue Mór slumbering beneath Lough Leane, rising every seven years on May 1 for good fortune.
- Defensive Features: The tour highlights the castle’s robust medieval architecture, including thick stone walls, narrow arrow slits, bartizans (overhanging turrets), machicolations (for dropping stones on attackers), and a fortified bawn wall with two remaining circular flanking towers. Visitors can view rooftop cannons and the parapet, showcasing the castle’s formidable defenses, famously breached only by artillery brought by boat during the 1652 siege.
- Exhibition Room: A free interpretive exhibition near the reception provides insights into the castle’s history, restoration, and Killarney National Park’s ecology. It’s an excellent starting point for understanding the site’s significance before the tour.
- Scenic Surroundings: The castle’s location on Ross Island offers breathtaking views of Lough Leane, the McGillycuddy Reeks, and surrounding woodlands. Visitors can stroll the grounds year-round (24/7 pedestrian access) for free, enjoying peaceful lakeside paths and spotting wildlife like red deer, swans, and ducks. The 5km Library Point Trail offers a scenic walk with prime castle views, while the nearby Ross Island trails provide additional exploration opportunities. The setting is described as “serene and romantic,” ideal for photography or quiet walks, especially at night when the castle is beautifully lit.
- Boat Tours: A popular way to experience Ross Castle is via a 1-hour Lakes of Killarney Boat Tour (€17, pre-2025 price), departing near the castle. These tours offer views of the castle, Innisfallen Island (home to a 7th-century monastery), and the park’s lakes and mountains. Glass-covered boats run hourly, providing a unique perspective and excellent reviews for their informative guides.
- Jaunting Car Rides: Traditional horse-drawn jaunting cars, operated by local jarveys, offer a charming way to reach the castle from Killarney town or explore the park. These rides, starting near Saint Mary’s Cathedral or Killarney Plaza Hotel, include tales of Gaelic chieftains and cost around €25 per person for routes like the Gap of Dunloe.
- Family-Friendly Features: The castle’s cannons and battlements captivate children, while the exhibition and grounds are engaging for all ages. The surrounding park offers kid-friendly trails, and nearby playgrounds in Tralee Town Park complement a family visit. However, the tour’s 70 steps make it unsuitable for prams or those with mobility issues, though the ground floor and exhibition are accessible. A social guide (PDF) is available to help first-time visitors, families, and those with developmental disabilities prepare.
- Amenities: The castle has two free car parks (busy in summer), restrooms, and a food wagon serving hot drinks like hot chocolate. Picnics are permitted in the grounds but not inside the castle during tours. The nearby Killarney House and Gardens visitor centre offers additional park information.
Visitor Expectations:
- A visit typically lasts 1–2 hours, including the 45-minute tour and time exploring the grounds or exhibition.
- The castle’s medieval charm, authentic furnishings, and “Disney-like” appearance, combined with its stunning lakeside setting, make it a highlight of Killarney National Park.
- Reviews praise the “captivating” tours, “knowledgeable” guides, and “breathtaking” views, with Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice award reflecting its appeal.
- The castle’s history, from its O’Donoghue origins to its Cromwellian siege and Browne family ownership, fascinates what Tourism Ireland marketing department calls the “culturally curious”, while the serene atmosphere suits couples and nature lovers.
- Drawbacks include potential summer crowds (116,587 visitors in 2023) and limited accessibility for mobility-impaired visitors. Admission (pre-2025) is €5 per adult, free for children, and €10 for families, with Irish Heritage Cardholders entering free.
- The castle is a 5-minute drive, 10-minute cycle, or 40-minute walk from Killarney town (2.5km), with shuttle buses and jaunting cars available. For the latest updates, check www.heritageireland.ie or contact +353 64 663 5851.
Additional Tips:
- Arrive early (9:30am) or visit off-season (spring/autumn) to avoid summer crowds, as tours are capped at 15 people. Groups of 10+ must pre-book.
- Wear sturdy shoes for the 70 steps and bring rain gear for Kerry’s weather.
- Combine with a boat tour to Innisfallen Island or a jaunting car ride for a full experience.
- Check parking availability at Ross Castle’s two car parks, as they fill up quickly in peak season.
- Visit the nearby Killarney House and Gardens (free) or Muckross House for a broader National Park experience.
- No food or drink is allowed inside during tours, but picnic areas outside offer stunning lake views.
Ross Castle delivers a mix of medieval history, authentic restoration, and stunning natural beauty, making it a recommended visit, with ongoing crowd management augmenting the experience
