Co. Cork, Ireland
Blarney Castle
History
Let’s be honest - the only reason anyone knows the word blarney is because of the fabled Blarney Stone. Legend has it, if you kiss the stone, you’ll be bequeathed with the ability of “bullshit”, meaning able to manipulate those with their words. This originally comes from Queen Elizabeth I, daughter of tyrant King Henry VIII, in which she stole Cormac McCarthy’s lands. Instead of resisting, he placated her for months with his words, resulting in her bequeathing his lands back to him out of sheer exasperation.
The original Blarney Castle was replaced with a stone structure in 1210 AD. Of the multiple tower houses I saw during my time in Ireland, this one was the largest and with the most intricate system of rooms.
After you climb the tower and kiss the stone, make sure to tour the extensive grounds. The herbaceous border and rose pergolas are amazing. Don’t miss the carnivorous and poisonous gardens. There is a Blarney House on the back of the property. When I was there in July of ‘22, it was only open for tours Mon, Wed, & Fri. Inquire at the property as there is no information on the official website.
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8km (about 5 miles) northwest of Cork.
T23 Y598
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There is an on site parking lot. The lot is metered by ticket.
Make sure to bring your ticket with you so you can pay the parking fee at the ticketing office before leaving.
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€20.
Just to the right of the parking lot is the ticketing office.
These were by far the most expensive tickets I bought to any castle and did NOT include a tour.
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Pros: Parking is easy.
There is a shop just inside the entrance where you can find refreshments and bathrooms.
The grounds are extensive and in pristine condition.
Cons: Admittedly the most famous castle in Ireland, the place is fucking packed with tourists.
You have to pay €10 for a picture of you kissing the stone and tip the handlers.
The Blarney house does not keep the same hours and tours are required.
