A gleaming Georgian-Gothic castle on the Shannon estuary, home to the Knights of Glin for over 700 years. Now an exclusive-hire country house, it opens to the public just once a year — but its magical gardens and heritage trails reward those who plan ahead.
Fifteen acres of formal lawns, winding gravel walks, a picturesque stream, and ancient Killarney oaks. Thanks to a Gulf Stream micro-climate, groves of Gunnera, camellia, and rhododendron thrive beneath Monterey pines. Don't miss the Persian Ironwood tree crowning the formal parterre of clipped yew.
A strenuous 5 km waymarked trail climbing from the castle drive to a viewing platform at 130 metres. Binoculars and interpretation panels are provided at two viewpoints — one at sea level on the estuary, the other with panoramic views from Galway Bay to Ballybunion.
Hidden among the woodland gardens you'll find a romantic hermit's grotto, a small stone circle, and three sets of battlemented Gothic folly lodges framing the estate entrances — perfect for families to explore.
Usually held on a Sunday in August, this once-a-year fundraiser (€10 adults, €20 families) offers guided tours of the castle and gardens, tea on the lawn, a raffle, a coffee truck, and an ice cream van. Gates open at noon; pay at the gate. Check glin-castle.com for the confirmed date.
Espaliered fruit trees, romantic borders, rose arches, and colourful vegetable plots fill this 19th-century walled garden. Two wooden Gothic temples offer seats with views across the estuary. Guests can pick their own fruit and vegetables in season.
The entrance hall stuns with Corinthian columns and a neo-classical plaster ceiling. Local guides lead tours through the ground-floor reception rooms, revealing the mahogany library bookcase with its secret door and the rare flying staircase. Family portraits, Irish 18th-century furniture, and porcelain fill every room.
For exclusive-hire guests, the castle offers a croquet lawn, tennis court, and hot tub. The library houses a full-size snooker table, while the cosy sitting room has board games and a large screen. Afternoon activities like clay pigeon shooting, archery, and falconry can also be arranged.
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