Family Quest activity
Download the free Family Quest sheet before you go: a set of questions answered by exploring the grounds and reading the panels inside, with a seasonal prize draw. Good for keeping children engaged.
Aughnanure Castle
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About
Connemara's best-preserved late-medieval tower house, perched on a rocky outcrop over the Drimneen River near the western shore of Lough Corrib. Built in the late 1400s, it was the stronghold of the O'Flaherty lords of Iarchonnacht for over two centuries.
Things to Do
Walk the Drimneen River path
The scenic approach is a highlight in itself: a leafy riverside walk under ash, hazel and hawthorn leads from the car park to the castle gatehouse. Cattle, horses and dogs from the working farm next door are often visible along the way.
Climb the four-floor tower house
Explore all four floors of the towerhouse, with information panels (English and Irish) on each level. Look for the murderhole, the secret chamber where enemies were imprisoned, the garderobes and the gallery above the third-floor hall. Hold the handrail on the spiral staircase.
Take a guided tour
Expert guides walk visitors through the Gaelic medieval period and the O'Flahertys' story of cattle raids, piracy and warfare. Tours can be arranged at reception, where free self-guiding handouts and paid visitor guides in several languages are also available.
See the banqueting hall and watchtower
Walk the paths to the remains of the 16th-century banqueting hall, whose windows are carved with decorative motifs, then continue to the watchtower, which you can step inside.
Walls, gatehouse and bawn
Pass through the arched gatehouse and explore the inner and outer bawn walls that once enclosed the castle complex. Climbing the walls is not permitted.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Open 27 February - 18 November 2026. 27 Feb - 28 Oct: daily 9:30 - 18:00 (last admission 17:15). 29 Oct - 18 Nov: daily 9:30 - 17:00 (last admission 16:15).
- Admission: Adults €5.00, group/senior €4.00, child/student €3.00, family €13.00.
- Parking: On-site car park, with a short path from the car park to reception. Overnight camping in the car park is strictly forbidden.
- Food: No café or food service on site; the nearest village, Oughterard, is 3.5 km away on the N59.
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