Nestled in the rolling green hills of County Cork in Ireland, Blarney Castle is a place that feels plucked straight from the pages of a storybook. While it’s famously home to the legendary Blarney Stone, there’s so much more waiting to be discovered, something I wish more people realized before visiting! Surrounding the castle, you’ll find vibrant gardens, winding paths, and magical spots like the Witch’s Kitchen and the Wishing Steps, each filled with folklore and wonder. Join me as we explore the history, mystery, and breathtaking beauty of Blarney Castle on a self-guided tour you’ll never forget!
Admission, Ticket & Hours
Because Blarney Castle is one of the most famous sites in the country, it draws quite a crowd, so getting your tickets in advance is highly recommended. This helps you skip the line and saves time upon arrival. You can buy your tickets directly from the official Blarney Castle website.
Admission prices: Adults €18, students and seniors (60 years and over) €14, children aged 8-16 €8, kids under 8 enter free.
January to March: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM) | April: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM) | May to September: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last admission at 5:00 PM) | October: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM) | November and December: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM)
Parking
Parking is available in the large parking lot next to the entrance for a €2 flat fee for your visit.
History of Blarney Castle
The site where Blarney Castle now stands has been a place of profound historical significance since the 10th century. The current Blarney Castle, the third structure on the site, has a rich and unique history. The first building, a wooden structure, was erected around the 10th century, followed by a stone fortification in 1210.
The current Castle was constructed in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy, the King of Munster, and reflects medieval Ireland’s typical tower house style. The structure features typical elements of the time, such as thick stone walls, narrow staircases for defence, and towers with various lookout points. Defence was integral to Blarney Castle, as it was built strategically to protect the southwestern approaches to Cork. Blarney Castle saw numerous historical conflicts throughout the years, especially during the Irish struggles against English rule. The castle was seized by Oliver Cromwell‘s forces in the mid-17th century, but it was later retaken by the Irish under Charles II.
The Blarney Stone
The Castle’s legacy is best known for possessing the famed Blarney Stone. Legend has it that kissing the stone bestows the kisser with the gift of eloquence. But you might ask, how? Well, there are different variations to explain this so-called phenomenon. One of the most popular legends about the stone’s origins involves Cormac McCarthy. It is said that McCarthy engaged in a lawsuit and appealed to the goddess Clíodhna, who told him to kiss the first stone he found on his way to court for luck. He did so, won his case, and believed the stone was lucky; McCarthy has the stone later incorporated into the Castle’s battlements. Another legend says that the goddess Clíodhna gifted the stone to the Castle’s lord as a token of gratitude for his deeds, and she embued the stone with her magical powers to impart eloquence to anyone who kissed it.
Is Kissing the Stone Worth the Wait?
While kissing the Blarney Stone is considered a must-do for many visitors to Ireland, thanks to its legendary promise and famed, the lineup to kiss the stone can wind all around the gardens! Arriving early in the morning is your best bet to get in quickly before the hoards of bus tours arrive. But even with an early arrival, the line was still at least 45 minutes on the day we visited. And when we left, it was well over an hour and a half! If you’re short on time, waiting in line for more than an hour might not seem the best way to spend your time. The line moves slowly, and the Castle itself is pretty barren, without much to entertain you, so be sure to bring a book or download a podcast to enjoy while you wait.
If you feel your trip to Ireland won’t be complete without kissing the stone, it’s likely worth the wait. But for those who may be less inclined, let me tell you, there are plenty of other enchanting sights and experiences that are equally, if not even more, interesting. Most tourists here only come to kiss the stone and then have to leave. However, the ancient druid heritage concealed inside the beautiful grounds and gardens is a hidden gem that most tourists fail to notice. So, on this self-guided tour of Blarney Castle, don’t be afraid to skip the castle if the line is too long. Instead, focus on investigating these unexplored areas of the gardens!
Map of Self-Guided Tour of Blarney Castle
Cafe
If you’ve followed my advice and arrived early in the morning, be sure to stop inside the cafe just after the entrance to grab a coffee or tea to take with you as you wander the grounds. Although this won’t be allowed inside any of the buildings, it is great to grab as you meander around the lush gardens and historic structures.
River Martin
As you continue on the pathway that leads you into the grounds, you’ll cross a charming bridge over the River Martin, which flows through the grounds of Blarney Castle. This charming river contributes significantly to the natural beauty surrounding the historic castle, and if you are there on a particularly quiet day, take a moment to enjoy the peaceful ambiance before heading towards the castle.
Bagpipers
As you cross the bridge and get closer to the enormous stone structure, you might be treated to the sounds of bagpipes as you approach. Well, some of you might be delighted, I guess bagpipes are an acquired musical taste. Although I thought bagpipes were a Scottish tradition, bagpipes are not exclusive to Scotland and are found in various forms throughout many cultures across Europe, North Africa, and even parts of Asia. The sound of this haunting, beautiful music echoing across the green countryside is one of the most awe-inspiring and nice to hear when exploring this historic site.
Watchkeepers Lookout
Adjacent to Blarney Castle in Ireland is a small watch tower that vigilantly surveys the estate. From here, guards could keep an eye on the countryside for invaders.
Inside Blarney Castle
As you step into the castle, just beyond the small tourist kiosk, your gaze will fall upon the ruins of the old Mansion House. These remnants once formed part of the Gothic court apartments of James Jefferey, constructed in the early 17th century. However, the original structure proved too uncomfortable for Jefferey and his family, leading to the construction of the grander mansion in 1739. Sadly, this wing of the castle was destroyed by fire in the 18th century, leaving behind only the weathered stone ruins that stand as a silent reminder of its storied past.
Beneath your feet, as you stand gazing at the ruins of the Mansion House, lies a network of labyrinthine tunnels. These passages once led to the castle’s dungeons, where prisoners were confined, and troops could discreetly retreat during a siege. Hidden within this maze was the infamous oubliette, a 15-foot stone pit cleverly concealed by a movable stone cover. If an unsuspecting intruder ventured too close, a guard could activate a lever, causing the stone to drop away and sending the intruder tumbling into the dark, inescapable hole below. As the name suggests, those who fell into the oubliette were destined to be “forgotten.”
Great Hall
The castle is a classic example of 15th-century fortifications, boasting five storeys with ancillary chambers branching off from each level. As you step inside, one of the first things you’ll notice is the dramatic drop in temperature, thanks to the castle’s impressive 18-foot-thick walls at the base. These massive walls not only provide a sturdy foundation but also make the castle highly defensible. Within this historic structure, you’ll find the enormous 17th-century fireplace, a feature that once served as the heart of the household. This fireplace was not only the main source of warmth but also the focal point where visitors would have been welcomed upon their arrival.
Earl’s Room
Just above the wooden stairs that lead you to the tower from the Great Hall is the Earl’s Bedroom. It might seem surprising for an earl to have such a small bedroom, but this room was more strategic than it was for comfort. The large window looking out over the country would allow the Earl to survey his land and keep an eye out for invaders.
Climbing the Tower Stairs
To reach the Blarney Stone, you’ll need to climb 128 steps within an incredibly narrow stone tower. If you have mobility issues or claustrophobia, be aware that this part of the tour might be challenging. Having climbed many old towers during my travels, I can confidently say these are some of the smallest and most slippery steps I’ve ever encountered. Fortunately, a sturdy rope is provided to help you steady yourself as you ascend.
The narrow staircase isn’t a result of poor design but rather a clever defensive feature. Its tight construction allowed defenders to control access, as only one person could ascend at a time. Any misstep on the back foot would almost certainly result in a tumble down the steep spiral, making it an effective deterrent during an attack.
As you make your way up the tower, you’ll come across small chambers branching off the staircase. These empty ruins hold fascinating stories of the castle’s past, with placards offering insights into how each room was used during its prime. It’s worth pausing along the way to explore these hidden corners before continuing your climb to the top and the famous Blarney Stone.
Garderobe
As you make your way up, keep an eye out for one of the three remaining garderobes tucked inside the tower walls. These early indoor lavatories were cleverly positioned on the north side of the tower to ensure that the prevailing winds carried waste water away from the castle. In their original state, they featured simple wooden seats. Today, all that remains is a small slit in the stonework, offering an intriguing glimpse into the practical design of medieval life.
View from the Battlements
At the top of the tower, standing along the battlements, you can truly feel the power of the wind. On particularly blustery days, you might need to brace yourself to maintain your balance and avoid a stumble.
But the view from up here is incredible. While you wait in line, inching towards the famed Blarney Stone, take in the stunning views across the lush countryside.
Legend of the Blarney Stone
The main draw of Blarney Castle is the chance to kiss the iconic Blarney Stone, which is said to grant the kisser the gift of eloquence. Its origins are steeped in fascinating legends. Some say it was a gift from the goddess Clíodhna, while others believe it was a token of gratitude from a witch rescued from drowning. Another tale links the stone to biblical lore, claiming it to be the “Stone of Ezel,” brought to Ireland during the Crusades. Some even suggest the very stone gushed water when Moses struck it. Regardless of which story you choose to believe, there is no denying that the myths surrounding the Blarney Stone have enchanted Ireland and its visitors for generations!
Kissing the Blarney Stone
Kissing the Blarney Stone is no simple task and involves a bit of physical effort. Visitors must lean backward over a gap in the castle’s parapet while holding onto iron rails for support. This unique challenge has added to the stone’s legendary charm, turning the tradition into an adventurous experience. Although the process is completely safe, those with a fear of heights might feel a bit unsteady as they tilt back over the castle’s edge.
Take a minute after kissing the stone to look down into the castle and see all the different floors. Originally, there would have been a wooden pitched roof over the top of the tower, but that has long been lost to history and time, leaving the bones of the castle all that’s left.
Chapel, Banqueting Hall & Family Room
As you descend from the Blarney Stone, you’ll exit via the staircase on the opposite side of the castle. This path leads you to a spacious room once housed the Banqueting Hall. At the heart of this grand space would have stood a massive oak table, where the Clan Chieftain and his guests gathered for feasts and lively conversation. A roaring fire would have been the centrepiece of the hall, with fish and fowl roasting over the flames. The sound of music, particularly the melodies of a harp, would have filled the room, reverberating off the castle’s thick stone walls, bringing warmth and life to the gathering.
In the 17th century, after a fire destroyed the mansion, the Banqueting Hall was converted into a chapel where the household would gather to attend Latin Mass. On the south side of this room is one of the most fascinating features of the castle, a surviving section of a 17th-century frieze. This beautiful artwork once covered the entire room, providing a glimpse into the decorative grandeur of the past.
Young Ladies’ Bedroom & Priests Room
The spiral staircase winding its way up one of the castle’s two towers leads you to the Young Ladies’ Bedroom, a charming and historically significant space. This room served as the private quarters for the daughters of the Lord of Muskerry during his reign. It was here that the young women would have lived, slept, and perhaps embroidered or read by the light streaming in through the narrow stone windows.
Murder Hole
Before reaching the ground floor, take a moment to look down at your feet to spot the “murder hole,” now covered by an iron grate. Originally, this hole would have been concealed by a stone slab, serving as a deadly defensive feature during an attack. If enemies attempted to breach the castle, guards stationed above would have dropped hot coals, heavy stones, or boiling tar through the opening, effectively thwarting the intruders below. This simple yet ingenious design was a crucial element of the castle’s fortifications, reminding visitors of the strategic measures used to protect those within its walls.
Poison Garden
Just past the long line leading to the Blarney Stone, you’ll find the intriguing Poison Garden, nestled on the far side of the castle’s sturdy stone walls. This unique garden boasts a collection of toxic plants from around the world, including wolfsbane, mandrake, and ricin. These plants are not only infamous for their deadly properties but are also steeped in history, having been used in ancient medicine and even associated with witchcraft.
The garden was thoughtfully created to educate visitors about the dangers hidden in poisonous plants, which can be found both in the wild and closer to home in our own gardens. It highlights the complex nature of these plants, showcasing how they have been utilized throughout history while also underscoring the risks they pose.
Defensive Walls
In the garden, you can stroll along the remnants of the old defensive walls, known as “The Bawn,” located on the western edge of the grounds. These historic walls once served as a vital refuge, offering protection to both people and livestock during times of danger. Far more than just a stronghold, this area was a hive of activity, bustling with the daily life of the castle’s community. Here, blacksmiths forged tools, tanners prepared hides, masons and carpenters constructed and repaired, while butchers, cooks, and a variety of animals filled the space with energy and purpose. It was a place where survival and industry came together in the shadow of the castle’s protective walls.
Carnivorous Courtyard
Carnivorous plants are extraordinary species that derive some or all of their nutrients by trapping and consuming animals. While they primarily prey on insects and other arthropods, some species are capable of capturing larger creatures, including frogs, lizards, and even small mammals like rats. These remarkable plants have adapted to thrive in harsh environments where soils are thin or lacking in nutrients, particularly nitrogen, such as acidic bogs.
Using vibrant, fluid-filled leaves, alluring scents, sticky surfaces, or tentacle-like structures, they lure their unsuspecting victims into carefully evolved traps. Once caught, the prey is slowly digested, providing the plant with the nutrients it needs to survive. Amazingly, several of these captivating plants can even be found here in Ireland, adding to the rich biodiversity of the region.
Stable Yard Cafe & Gift Shop
If you feel like taking a little break and grabbing a snack, head to the Stable Yard Café and Gift Shop. Located in what was once the original stables, this little cafe offers a cozy place to sit and enjoy fresh cakes and cream teas. Don’t miss the loganberry ice cream, made from estate-grown fruit.
The Rock Close
Now that you’ve seen the castle, it’s time to explore the gardens! The gardens and mystical history hidden throughout is actually my favourite part of a visit to Blarney Castle so please please don’t miss out on these areas! The Rock Close, one of the most enchanting areas inside of Blarney Castle, offers a glimpse into its mystical past. This serene garden is believed to have been a druidic settlement, where rituals and ceremonies took place long before the castle was built. Shrouded beneath a canopy of ancient yew trees, the area feels like stepping into a world of magic and legend.
Many of the rocks have remained untouched for over 2,000 years, while others were artfully arranged in the 1750s by the Jefferyes family to enhance the natural beauty of the site. The twisted roots of the yew trees cling to the rocky ground like veins, adding to the mystical atmosphere.
Witches Kitchen & Druids Cave
The ancient Witch’s Yew Tree, located in the enchanting Rock Close, is estimated to be over 600 years old. This towering and magnificent tree perches atop a limestone outcrop that houses the Witch’s Kitchen, an 18th-century folly steeped in folklore. According to legend, this was the home of the Blarney Witch, who first revealed the magical powers of the Blarney Stone and its ability to grant the gift of eloquence.
The name “Witch’s Kitchen” evokes images of a mystical hideaway where potions and spells were once brewed. Folklore tells of the witch crafting her concoctions here, and if you visit early enough in the morning, some say you might see the faint glow of embers from a lingering fire—a haunting reminder of the witch who is said to still roam the woods.
The structure itself is made of moss-covered stones, with a natural chimney that vents the cave and lends credence to its role as a functional kitchen. The eerie charm of this place is undeniable, blending nature’s beauty with the mysteries of its past.
While folklore speaks of witches, others believe the cave may have once been home to a reclusive hermit cared for by the Jefferyes family. Over the centuries, it may have sheltered many, and some historians even suggest it was used by Ireland’s earliest inhabitants, the Druids.
Witches Stone
The Witch’s Stone is one of the most captivating items within the mystical Rock Close at Blarney Castle. Surrounded by lush greenery and steeped in centuries of Irish folklore, this enigmatic boulder is said to be the petrified form of the legendary Blarney Witch. According to local legend, the witch, credited with bestowing the gift of eloquence, is trapped in stone during the day and freed to roam the grounds after nightfall, only to return to her rocky prison at dawn.
The Witch’s Stone commands your attention, its striking appearance resembling the side profile of a woman, her eyes watching you as you pass by. Many people leave offerings for the witch atop the rock, so if you have any change, it can’t hurt to leave some for a little added luck!
Druids Circle
Just a few steps away, you’ll come across what is believed to be a Druid’s Circle, a ring of large standing stones arranged in a perfect circle. It resembles other ancient megalithic sites found throughout Ireland and is thought to have been used by the Druids, the wise and mystical figures of Celtic society, for rituals or gatherings. While its exact purpose remains a mystery, stone circles like this are often associated with ceremonies tied to the sun, the moon, and the rhythms of nature, adding a touch of magic to the experience.
Dolmen
On the far side of the Druid’s Circle, you’ll find a large dolmen. This ancient structure is made up of two or more upright stones supporting a flat horizontal capstone. Dolmens are thought to have served as burial chambers or gateways to the otherworld during the Neolithic period, more than 4,000 years ago. They are often referred to as the Druid’s Altar, adding to their sense of mystery and spiritual significance.
Wishing Steps & Waterfall
The Wishing Steps are one of the most enchanting features hidden within the magical Rock Close. According to local legend, if you walk both up and down the steps with your eyes closed, focusing entirely on your wish and without stopping, your wish will come true within a year. The stone steps, smooth and weathered from centuries of footsteps, carry an air of mystery and tradition.
The steps descend into a damp, moss-covered gorge, where a charming waterfall gently cascades over the rocks. The soft sound of falling water fills the air, creating a serene atmosphere that enhances the enchanting beauty of the surroundings. It’s a place that feels alive with history and folklore, inviting visitors to pause and immerse themselves in its quiet magic.
Boardwalk and Water Garden
This area is home to a raised boardwalk, surrounded by Gunnera manicata and water-loving plants that make you feel more like you’re walking through the rainforest than an Irish castle. One of the most beloved spots for visitors here is the Fern Garden. Here, towering Dicksonia tree ferns, brought from the far corners of the world, create a prehistoric atmosphere, as they are remnants of the Jurassic period. Sunlight filters gently through the lofty canopy of trees above, scattering through the delicate fronds of the ferns below. The atmosphere in this area is nothing short of magical.
Seven Sisters
The final stop on our tour of Blarney Castle takes us through the gardens towards the legendary “Seven Sisters.” The gardens are a breathtaking mix of colours and textures, offering visitors a diverse array of flowers and foliage throughout the year. Vibrant yellow daffodils brighten the pathways in spring, creating a cheerful welcome. Azaleas and rhododendrons bloom in stunning shades of pink, red, and purple, particularly in the Belgian Beds, where their colours produce a dazzling display.
The Seven Sisters are a series of tones arranged in a circle and carry a sense of mystery and historical significance, though their true origin and purpose remain unknown. Like many megalithic structures across Ireland, they are believed to have been used for ancient rituals, astronomical observations, or as markers of important events or sacred places.
The circular arrangement of the Seven Sisters suggests they may have been tied to gatherings or ceremonies, perhaps with druidic connections, given the area’s ties to Celtic mythology. It’s easy to imagine the site used for ceremonial dances, religious rites, or communal gatherings by ancient peoples.
Initially, nine standing stones were here. According to legend, a medieval chieftain with seven daughters and two sons took his sons to battle against a raiding neighbour. While victorious, the chieftain suffered a heartbreaking loss—both of his sons were killed in the fight. Grief-stricken, he returned to this spot with his troops and his sons’ bodies. To honour their sacrifice, he ordered his men to knock down two stones, leaving the remaining seven standing as a poignant reminder of his loss.
Blarney Castle isn’t just a historic site; it’s an experience that weaves together the magic of Ireland’s past with the beauty of its natural surroundings! I hope you managed to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone and wander the mossy trails once home to ancient druids and mystical witches, as Blarney Castle is truly an enchanting place to get lost, step back in time, and find a little magic and Irish wonder!
Happy Travels, Adventurers!
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