The ivy-covered ruin of a 16th-century castle on the banks of the River Corrib, home to the Blake family for 300 years until a fatal fire in 1910. It is a striking, free landmark, but access to the ruins has long been restricted for conservation work.
The easiest and safest view is from across the river, on the riverside walk through the University of Galway campus. It follows the old Galway to Clifden railway line, and in summer it is a busy spot with joggers and walkers.
The Corrib Princess sails from Woodquay in Galway city past castles and historic sites on the river. The standard sightseeing trip lasts 90 minutes and runs from April to October, usually at 2.30pm and 4.30pm, with an extra 12.30pm sailing in July and August.
Several Galway kayak guides, such as Kayakmor, bring groups up the River Corrib past the castle for a closer look from the water.
When access is permitted, you pass the old gatehouse, then climb a gate and follow a rough track to the castle. It sits on private land: respect the ruins and surrounding fields and leave no trace. The track is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
The Blakes lived here from 1600 to 1910 and hosted the Maying in Menlo spring festival. A 1910 fire gutted the castle, killing two maids and an invalid daughter, Eleanor Blake, whose body was never found; only the walls were left standing.
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