Dunguaire Castle

One of Ireland’s most beautiful castles

No visit to Ireland is complete without a visit to one of its many historic castles. Some are enchanting and fairy-like filled with character and charm, while others are said to be haunted! The castles in Ireland are full of history and a great way to learn about what life was like long ago. If you’re in the Galway area visit Dunguaire Castle.

Dunguaire Castle has the most picturesque location at the shores of Galway Bay near Kinvara in County Galway. The castle comprises of a 75 foot tower and defensive wall against a stunning backdrop making this castle – the most photographed castle in Ireland!

Dunguaire Castle Galway — Castle at dusk

A short history

Dunguaire Castle was built in 1520 by the Hynes Clan who were a prominent family in the area since 662. In the 17th century the castle was passed onto the Martyn clan of Galway who remained in the stonghold until 1924. It was Oliver St. John Gogarty, a well known surgeon and writer who bought and restored the castle and made it a meeting place for literary greats like George Bernard Shaw, Lady Gregory, J.M Synge and W.B. Yeats.

Dunguaire Castle Banquet

The castle is now in the hands of Shannon Development and is one of the most popular visitor attractions in Galway. From mid-April to mid-October each year, the castle hosts medieval banquets where guests can enjoy a delicious four course meal and fine wines whilst be entertained by songs, stories and poems (especially the poems of Yeats, Gogarty, Shaw and Synge).

Book Tickets

On the big screen

Dunguaire Castle has also left its mark on the silver screen. Movie enthusiasts will recognize its enchanting façade from the 1969 Walt Disney film “Guns in the Heather,” starring Hollywood icon Kurt Russell. The castle continued its cinematic journey in 1979 as a filming location for “North Sea Hijack.”

A must see on your visit to Galway

Part of the lore about Dunguaire’s Castle is that the Lord of the castle was very generous and he continued this generosity into the afterlife. Today, if a person stands at the front gate and asks a question, they will have an answer to their question by the end of the day.The castle also has a crafts and visitors shop.

Dunguaire Castle can be found outside the little village of Kinvara, about 300 metres on the coast road in the direction of Galway city.

History of Dunguaire Castle

Dunguaire Castle Map

Dunguaire Castle FAQs

What are the best parts of Dunguaire Castle to see?

Venturing to the rooftop offers breathtaking views of Kinvara village and the bay. However, visitors are advised to be mindful, as the walkway around the tower’s top is quite narrow, so a little care should be taken if busy with visitors.

What medieval experience can visitors have at Dunguaire Castle?

Those seeking a taste of medieval life can attend the renowned Dunguaire Castle Banquet. Booking in advance is essential to secure a seat for an evening filled with songs, stories, and poems from eras long past. The banquet includes a sumptuous 4-course dinner, featuring everything from aperitifs and mead to Irish oak-smoked salmon.

What are the opening hours for Dunguaire Castle?

Dunguaire Castle opens on a seasonal basis, usually from April to October, from 10 am to 5 pm.

Is there an entrance fee for Dunguaire Castle?

While it’s free to wander the castle grounds, there is an entrance fee for accessing the castle. The pricing details are as follows:

Dunguaire Castle