Portumna Castle
17th century castle and walled gardens
Portumna is one of the prettiest towns in County Galway. It boasts a stunning location at the edge of the River Shannon and Lough Derg close to the Galway border with Tipperary. Portumna is renowned for its famous Portumna Castle & Gardens.
Portumna Castle can be found just at the edge of Portumna town in quite a beautiful location next to Lough Derg and Portumna Forest Park.
Portumna Castle is actually more of a great semi-fortified house and was said to be one of the most significant residences to be built in Ireland during its time. The castle is a large rectangular house with three storeys and flanking towers and battlements at the top. It has both strong interior and exterior walls and was designed as first and foremost a defensive stronghold. The security of the castle was also strengthened by the establishment of three consecutive gate lodges on approach to the castle.
The castle was built about 1616 by a man of great power and wealth called Richard de Burgo (Burke). He was a decendent of the famous Norman clan – De Burgo, the 4th Earl of Clanrickarde and the Lord President of Connaught. It’s said that it cost De Burgo a staggering £10,000 to build the castle at that time.
In 1826 the house was gutted by an accidental fire and the family moved to the stables to live there until a new castle was constructed in 1862, which was again burnt to the ground in 1922. The last Marquis of Clanricarde sold the house to the state in 1948. The castle was carefully and extensively restored and preserved and is now one of the top visitor attractions in the west. The parklands and woods (1,500 acres) surrounding the castle are now a wildlife sanctuary and home to lots of different little animals and deer.
Take a tour of the castle and see the interior, gardens and kitchen for yourself and also the ruins of a Dominican Friary. There are some interesting exhibitions too which tell the story of the De Burgo family and the castle itself which was the main seat of this powerful family for over 200 years
Portumna Castle: what to expect
Opening times
The castle is open to visitors from March to October daily 10am – 6am. Tours last about 1 hour with last admission at 17.15.
Ticket prices
Adult: €5.00.
Group/Senior: €4.00
Child/Student: €3.00
Family: €13.00
*note prices liable to change, confirm with Portumna Castle directly.
Contact
📞 090 974 1658
📧 [email protected]
Portumna Castle Map
Portumna Castle FAQs
What is the history of Portumna Castle?
Portumna Castle was erected nearly four centuries ago by the de Burgo (Burke) family. It was constructed circa 1618 by Richard Burke, the 4th Earl of Clanrickard, and served as the primary residence of the de Burgo clan for over two centuries until a devastating fire in 1826.
What architectural style does Portumna Castle represent?
Portumna Castle exemplifies Jacobean architecture, showcasing the grandeur and style of the period in which it was built.
What are the main attractions within the castle grounds?
The castle boasts meticulously designed formal gardens to the north, featuring geometric layouts. The Willow Maze, showcasing various willow species, offers a charming central path adorned with espalier fruit trees and lavender underplantings. Additionally, the potager kitchen garden showcases a vibrant array of flowers, herbs, hollies, and vegetables, all grown organically.
What amenities are available at the castle?
While the site offers toilet facilities, there are no refreshments or additional amenities available.
Is the castle suitable for children?
Yes, there a playground and café onsite however, it’s important to supervise children at all times due to some areas possibly being inaccessible and for their safety.
Is it accessible for individuals with mobility issues?
Partial wheelchair access is available, but some areas may be inaccessible due to the historic nature of the site.
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