Historic illustration of Deymnagh Castle in Dublin from 1830

Drimnagh Castle

Drimnagh Castle Dublin: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Site Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Drimnagh Castle, located in the southwest suburbs of Dublin, is one of Ireland’s most authentic and best-preserved medieval landmarks. As the only Irish castle with a fully intact flooded moat, Drimnagh offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience medieval architecture and centuries of layered history. First constructed in the early 13th century by the de Bernival (later Barnewall) family—on land granted by King John in 1215—the castle has witnessed the turbulent history of the Pale, survived periods of decline, and, thanks to careful restoration, thrives today as a vibrant educational and cultural site (Heritage Ireland; Dublin City Council).

Drimnagh Castle’s unique moat, restored great hall, and formal medieval gardens offer an immersive journey into Ireland’s past. Now managed by a local trust, the castle welcomes visitors for guided tours, workshops, and special events, and is easily reached by public transport or car. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or curious traveler, Drimnagh Castle is an essential stop among Dublin historical sites (Dublin.ie; Irish Film Locations).

Scenic landscape of O'Connor Drimagh featuring green hills and blue sky

Medieval Origins and Early Ownership
Architectural Evolution
The Barnewall Family and Local Significance
Decline and Restoration
Drimnagh Castle Today
Visiting Information

Hours, Tickets & Tours
Accessibility & Facilities
Getting There
Photography & Events

Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary & Travel Tips
References

1. Medieval Origins and Early Ownership

Drimnagh Castle’s story begins in the early 1200s, when the de Bernival family was granted the lands of Drimnagh by King John. The original wooden motte-and-bailey was soon replaced by a stone hall-keep, and the Barnewalls became prominent figures within the Pale, defending English rule around Dublin (Heritage Ireland; Dublin City Council).

2. Architectural Evolution

Drimnagh Castle’s architecture reflects evolving defensive and domestic needs. The earliest elements include the stone hall and tower, with the moat (fed by the Camac River) forming a key defensive feature (Irish Castles). Later expansions in the 15th and 16th centuries brought a great hall, larger windows, and fireplaces—signs of increased comfort. By the 17th and 18th centuries, sash windows and Georgian refinements were added, blending eras while retaining the castle’s medieval essence.

3. The Barnewall Family and Local Significance

For over four centuries, the Barnewalls shaped Drimnagh’s social and economic landscape. They managed agricultural lands, held local power, and their loyalty to the English Crown kept them at the center of Dublin’s shifting fortunes. Despite upheavals, including the Cromwellian conquest, the family retained Drimnagh Castle, marking its resilience (Ask About Ireland).

4. Decline and Restoration

After the Barnewalls sold the castle in the early 1900s, Drimnagh fell into ruin. Restoration began in the 1980s under An Taisce and FÁS, employing traditional methods and reviving the great hall, moat, and medieval-style gardens (Drimnagh Castle Official). This painstaking work restored Drimnagh as one of Ireland’s most authentic medieval castles and a model for heritage conservation (Irish Historic Houses; Knight Templar).

5. Drimnagh Castle Today

Now a living museum, Drimnagh Castle hosts guided tours, educational workshops, medieval reenactments, and community events. Its unique moat, great hall, atmospheric undercroft, and formal gardens continue to inspire filmmakers and visitors alike (Dublin.ie; Irish Film Locations). The castle stands as a symbol of resilience and community identity in modern Dublin.

6. Visiting Information

Hours, Tickets & Tours

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 am – 4:00 pm (last tour at 3:00 pm); Friday last tour at 12:00 pm. Closed weekends and public holidays (Drimnagh Castle Tour Information).
Tour Schedule: Guided tours start on the hour from 10:00 am. Pre-booking is essential via phone (+353 1 450 2530). Tours last 45–60 minutes.
Admission Fees: Adults €9; Students/OAPs €7; Children €5. Groups and concessions available (Drimnagh Castle Official).
Payment: Euro cash only; credit cards not accepted.

Accessibility & Facilities

Medieval architecture means upper levels are not wheelchair accessible; ground floor and gardens are more accessible.
Restrooms and limited parking available on-site.
No café on-site; bring water/snacks.
Gift shop with local crafts and books.

Getting There

By Public Transport: Dublin Bus routes 18, 27, 56A, and 77A; Bluebell Luas stop is a 15-minute walk (Dublin Bus).
By Car: Limited parking; accessible from N7/M50 (TripHobo).
By Taxi: 20–30 minutes from city center.

Photography & Events

Non-commercial photography is allowed; commercial shoots require permission.
Drimnagh Castle is available for private events including weddings and film shoots (Visit Dublin).

7. Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring:

Kilmainham Gaol (historic prison)
Guinness Storehouse
Phoenix Park
Irish Museum of Modern Art
Local River Camac walking trails and traditional Irish eateries nearby.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Drimnagh Castle’s visiting hours?
A: Monday–Thursday: 9:30 am–4:00 pm; Friday: 9:30 am–1:00 pm; closed weekends. Last tour an hour before closing.

Q: How do I book tickets?
A: Pre-book by phone (+353 1 450 2530); payment by cash on arrival.

Q: Is Drimnagh Castle wheelchair accessible?
A: Ground floor and gardens are accessible; upper floors are not.

Q: Are guided tours required?
A: Yes, entry is by guided tour only.

Q: Is parking available?
A: Yes, limited on-site parking.

Q: Can I host a private event at Drimnagh Castle?
A: Yes, the castle is available for hire; contact directly for details.

9. Summary & Travel Tips

Drimnagh Castle stands as a testament to Ireland’s medieval past and the ongoing power of community heritage. Its moat, restored interiors, and gardens provide an authentic medieval experience, complemented by engaging tours and special events. For the best visit:

Pre-book your ticket and tour slot
Bring euro cash
Wear sturdy shoes for uneven surfaces
Allow 1–1.5 hours for your visit
Check the official website for any changes to hours or special events

Nearby attractions like Kilmainham Gaol and Phoenix Park make Drimnagh a perfect anchor for exploring Dublin’s rich history (Irish Historic Houses; The Irish Road Trip).