The Most Beautiful Castles in Ireland

Voting Rules
Castles in the great, green country of Ireland

List of the most beautiful castles in Ireland, as ranked by castle lovers from all over the world. Ireland has a history so long, filled with war, adventure, and royalty, that wherever you go in Ireland, from Dublin to Limerick, there are historical relics to be explored and enjoyed. The most prominent historical artifacts in Ireland are their many looming castles. Ireland has so many castles, which were built over the course of 10 centuries, that they are some of the biggest tourist attractions in the country. While there are many castles in Ireland, most of them are ruins, making it all the more exciting to visit one of the resorted or well-kept castles throughout the country.

Many of Ireland’s castles are currently used as hotels, where residents can learn the history of each building and explore the traditional art and furnishings. Many other Irish castles are either used as museums or are open for public tours. Some of the castles are still used as private residences, either because they were passed down through generations or purchased by a wealthy citizen.

What are the most beautiful castles in Ireland? This list features the most stunning and well-kept castles in all of Ireland. Get in touch with your inner royalty and vote up the castle you think is the most beautiful.


  • Rock of Cashel was home to the Kings of Munster for many generations.
    86 votes
  • Ashford Castle
    Photo: Metaweb (FB) / Public domain
    Ashford Castle is now used as a hotel, where guests are free to wander around the fairly large grounds.
    69 votes
  • Lismore Castle is one of Ireland's major tourist attractions with a stunning garden that's open to the public.
    82 votes
  • Kilkenny Castle
    Photo: jpverkamp / flickr / CC-BY-NC-ND 2.0
    Kilkenny Castle is one of the most visited castles in not only Ireland, but the world.
    81 votes
  • 5
    51 VOTES

    Donegal Castle

    Donegal Castle
    Photo: Hectate1 / flickr / CC-BY-ND 2.0
    Donegal Castle may not be kept in the best shape, but that doesn't take away from the beauty of the structure and the area around it.
    51 votes
  • 6
    59 VOTES

    Dromoland Castle

    Dromoland Castle
    Photo: SowersPics / flickr / CC-BY-ND 2.0
    Dromoland Castle was built in the 16th century and belonged to the royal O'Brien family.
    59 votes