Dunguaire Castle stands on the shore of Galway Bay, at Kinvara in County Galway, Ireland. It is a 16th-century tower house, and it has been restored to something close to its former appearance, so visitors can see how a fortified residence of its kind was built and lived in.
What the visit is like
The castle is set right on the water, and its position is much of its appeal. Standing by the walls, you look out over the bay, with the open landscape of the Galway coast around you. The tower itself is compact and sturdy, and it is easy to imagine the household that once occupied its rooms.
The castle is best known for its medieval banquets, which give visitors a way to experience the building as a place of feasting and entertainment rather than only as a monument to look at from outside.
Planning your trip
- Location: Kinvara, Co. Galway, H91 X7RF, Ireland
- Contact: +353 91 637 108
- Setting: The shoreline of Galway Bay, with views across the water
Kinvara is a small village, and the castle makes a natural stop for anyone exploring this part of County Galway. The surrounding bay and coastline give you a good reason to linger outdoors before or after your visit to the tower.