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Cahir Castle
Cahir, Co. Tipperary
Family friendly
Paid car parking
Rainy days
Cahir Castle is located on a rocky island on the River Suir in the centre of Cahir town, County Tipperary. It is one of Ireland’s largest and best preserved castles.

An imposing 13th-15th Century structure, Cahir Castle was skilfully designed by Conor O’Brien to be a state-of-the-art defensive castle. Appearing to grow from the actual rock on which it stands, the castle has been the scene of sieges and bombardments for centuries.

The powerful Anglo-Norman family, the Butlers, came into the possession of the castle in 1375. The castle was captured three times in its history: it fell to Devereux, Earl of Essex, in 1599 after it had been battered for three days with artillery; it surrendered without a fight to Inchiquin in 1647; and again to Cromwell in 1650.

Over the centuries the Butlers considerably rebuilt and extended their stronghold. However, by 1599, the castle had reached its present appearance, with the only subsequent alterations taking place in the 1840s.

In 1961, the last Lord Cahir died and the castle reverted to the State. The castle retains its impressive keep, tower and much of its original defensive structure. Today, the castle also features an excellent audio-visual show which informs visitors about its eventful history.

Guided Tours:

Maximum number: 40 - 50

Duration: 30 - 40 minutes

Please note that all groups must be pre-booked.

Leaflet/Guide book: English. Irish, French, German, Italian, Spanish.

Exhibitions, Toilets, Public Car/Coach park close to site.

Limited access for visitors with disabilities.. please call - prior arrangements must be made

Tips from locals

Don't forget to take the Coronation River walk from Cahir Castle to Swiss Cottage, if time permits walk the Inch Field & sculpture trail located behind the castle.

Contact details
Castle St, Townparks, Cahir, Co. Tipperary, E21 P652, Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend 1 to 1.5 hours here.

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