Barryscourt Castle

Free admittance with a free guided tour through the castle — and in my opinion although smaller, Barryscourt is way better than Blarney. Our tour guide was excellent and very informative. The castle has been (and continues to be) restored so you get to see each floor as it might have been not just stone rooms without floors like at Blarney. There’s a lovely small garden and an orchard within the walls.
Close to Fota House and Gardens this is an excellent stop while you’re in the area and you can make a full day out of it by also visiting Fota. Fota Gardens and Arboretum are also free.

BARRYSCOURT CASTLE
Paid my first visit in decades to Barryscourt Castle, an impressive relic of the 16^th century court of the Barry family. Impressive enough as a stark ruin in the 80s but now it’s much improved and well worth a visit, particularly since there is no charge at all, and that includes the guided tour of the interior.
Time was short yesterday so we contented ourselves with a walk around the outside of the castle itself, through the herb garden and a large orchard. There are records of an orchard there since the 13^th century and this one, with dozens of apple varieties, is laid out according to the 16^th century manner. There are smaller plantings of pears and quinces.
There is an information office with very helpful and friendly staff, toilets and a café and it is just off the main national road (N25). It is a very pleasant visit indeed and I’ll be back for a longer stay, perhaps during Heritage Week which takes place in venues across the country from August 21^st. Most events are free to enter, some have reduced charges.
This is one of many available. See the Heritage Ireland site
or pick up the comprehensive National Heritage Week brochure at your local library.
Tel: +353 21 488 3864