Highlights in Cork

Blarney Castle

Nestled in the charming village of Blarney is one of Cork ’s greatest treasures. Built nearly 600 years ago, Blarney Castle is known the world over for the famous stone that has been a must see attraction for any visitor to Ireland over the past 200 years! In 2006, the Discovery Channel listed kissing the Blarney Stone amongst its 99 things to do before you die! Today, more than 400,000 visitors pass through the castle gates every year in the hope to receive the ‘Gift of Eloquence’.

The Blarney Stone is believed to be one half of the stone of Scone , which was given by Robert the Bruce to Cormac McCarthy in 1314 for his support in the Battle of Bannockburn. World statesmen, literary giants and legends of the silver screen have joined millions of pilgrims who climb the towers steps to kiss the stone. Once upon a time, visitors had to be held by the ankles and lowered head first over the battlements. Today, Blarney Castle are rather more cautious of the safety of there visitors. The Stone itself is still set in the wall below the battlements. To kiss it, one has to lean backwards (holding on to an iron railing) from the parapet walk. The prize is a real one as once kissed the stone bestows the gift of eloquence.

Rock Close & Blarney Castle Gardens

However, in addition to the most famous stone in the world, the Blarney Castle estate also offers visitors the chance to stroll one of the country’s most spectacular gardens, enjoy a picnic by the lake or explore the Rock Close – a mystical place where majestic yew and oak trees grow around an ancient druidic settlement. Here, visitors will find a dolmen, sacrificial alter, a Druids circle, a Witches Kitchen and wishing steps, fairy glade, boardwalk, waterfalls and much much more!

Maybe we should not be surprised at how eloquent so many of our visitors become. For many of them, however, it is not the Stone but Rock Close that so moves them. Landscaped around many timeless features in the eighteenth century, this is truly an enchanted spot. Where better to spend a day exploring this enchanted and magical wonderland!”

A new range of events are planned on the grounds of Blarney Castle for the forthcoming year; so stay up to date via www.blarneycastle.ie

Blarney Castle has two quant gift shops with exclusive Blarney Castle crafts, only available from Blarney Castle ! There is also a coffee hut, where you can enjoy your refreshments as you tour through this magical place and get a real sense of Irish history!

Families & Kids

The most fun you can have while learning about the unique legend behind the stone and of the magnificent Blarney Castle & Rock Close Gardens . Pack the car and enjoy an exciting family day out,

-Explore the Dungeons & Badgers Cave

-Discover the Magical Rock Close Gardens

-Kiss the World Famous Blarney Stone.

-Enjoy the Tranquillity of our Fern Garden & Lake Walk

-Relax & enjoy a picnic in our scenic gardens

The history of Blarney Castle , now to be much better brought to life, is central to an understanding of the town, of Cork and Munster , and Ireland as a whole. And the beauty of its surroundings makes it a great place for a family day out!

Also stay up to date on our website: www.blarneycastle.ie for all up coming Family Events here at Blarney Castle as there is something for all seasons here!