Cork Attractions
Bunratty Castle
Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle is one of Ireland's oldest and most historic
castles, built around 1446. An ancient stronghold of the
MacCarthys, Lords of Muskerry and one of the strongest fortresses
in Munster, its walls are 18ft (5m) thick in places. Located on the
parapet of the castle is the famous 'Blarney Stone'. According to
local legend, after kissing this stone, one will have the gift of
eternal eloquence, or 'the gift of the gab'. To do this, visitors
must first position themselves on their back, then lean their head
back and downwards over the edge of the battlements, with the help
of an attendant, in order to kiss the underside of the stone. The
last admission to the castle and grounds is 30 minutes before
closing.
Address: Five miles (8km) from Cork;
E-mail: info@blarneycastle.ie;
Website: www.blarneycastle.ie;
Telephone: (0)21 438 5252;
Opening time: Monday to Saturday 9am to 6.30pm (May and September), 9am to 7pm (June to August), 9am to sunset(October to April). Sundays 9.30am to 5.30pm (until sunset in winter);
Admission: €10 (adults), €3.50 (children 8-14)
