Dublin

<h2>Dunguaire Castle - Kinvara, Co. Galway (near Gort)</h2>

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Perched on the water's edge just outside the village of Kinvara, this impressive castle dates from the year 1520.&nbsp;
It was restored in the 20th century by wealthy surgeon Oliver St. John Gogarty, who entertained guests such as W.B. Yeats, Lady Gregory, George Bernard Shaw, Edward Martin and J.M. Synge. It is now managed by Shannon Heritage.
When Covid restrictions permit, medieval banquets showcase local food and traditions. For now though, you can book your tickets for a castle tour using the weblink on their Gort listing.&nbsp;

<h2>Borris House - Borris, Co. Carlow (near Bagenalstown)</h2>
Borris House is a privately-owned country house and retired its 'castle' title long ago. Regardless, the building's sheer architectural beauty continues to lend this Carlow estate a sense of grandeur and majesty.

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It's also one of a few Irish estates that can definitively trace its roots back to the ruling families of Ireland; in this case, to the kings of Leinster, or the MacMorrough Kavanagh family. The current house is almost 300 years old.
While the house itself isn't always open for guided tours, the estate's gardens are open to visitors Thursday-Sunday. The gardens offer magnificent views of the house, the Blackstairs Mountains and the Barrow Valley. You can also enjoy a walk through their woodlands and kids will love the charming Fairy Trail.
To find out more about their opening hours and rates, browse their listing in Xplore Bagenalstown.

<h2>Portumna Castle - Portumna, Co. Galway</h2>

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This stunning castle was built between 1610 and 1617 by Richard Burke of the De Burgo family, who was then also Lord President of Connaught. In the 1820s it was devastated by fire, but the State has been working to restore it since the 1960s.&nbsp;
Luckily, it's an OPW-managed attraction, which means admission is free for the rest of the year!
With views of Lough Derg, a walled garden, and a tea shop (currently takeaway), this Galway heritage site has loads to offer. The gardens are open from 10 am to 6 pm and the ground floor of the castle is open for visiting too.

<h2>Lismore Castle Gardens - Lismore, Co. Waterford (near Youghal)</h2>
The oldest castle on this list, Lismore is close to 850 years old and was once the home of English adventurer Sir Walter Raleigh. Its gardens are also believed to be the oldest continually cultivated grounds in the country.

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Like Borris House, Lismore castle is under private ownership, so there's no access to the castle itself. Nonetheless, seven acres of carefully kept gardens are open 7 days a week to the public. The Yew Tree walk and views of the Blackwater Valley are highlights; you can even book a picnic basket prepared by the castle chef using ingredients from the garden. Fresh scones and cakes are available too!
To find out more about their rates and how to book, go to their listing in Xplore Youghal.&nbsp;

<h2>Menlo Castle - Menlo, Co. Galway</h2>

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Situated on the bank of the River Corrib, the ivy-covered Menlo Castle is a 16th-century former stronghold of the Blake Family. It was destroyed by fire in 1910. Although the castle is a ruin, its picturesque setting is perfect for a relaxing walk by the river or for a picnic on a dry day.&nbsp;
There's an old graveyard nearby and it's situated close enough to Galway city centre that you can enjoy all the comforts of the city within walking/bus ride distance.&nbsp;

You can find all of these castles and more under the Attractions section of the Xplore Local app and website. Get direct links to their websites and more information on their history and location. Click 'Select another town' in the app side menu to view attractions in other towns.

5 Lesser-Known Irish Castles To Visit This Summer

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