Direction Ireland

Dungarvan Castle

Southeast Ireland | County Waterford

Castle in Dungarvan (County Waterford), also known as King John's Castle is an Anglo - Norman fortress built in 1185. The castle is situated at the eastern corner of the town on the bend of river Colligan, just before escape to the sea. Defensive walls create the shape of shell, what is unique in Ireland, but quite common in England. There are two towers on the sides of front gate and one in the corner. From beginning the Castle was garrisoned by the English forces and was held by them almost incessantly for over 700 years. At the end of the 17th century the castle was destroyed, to prevent it from being used by rebels, but within a few years decided to install there a garrison again. In the first half of the 18th century two-storey military barracks were built which remained in British hands until 1920. During Irish Civil War barracks were taken by the IRA who upon leaving in August 1922, set fire to the structure. After the foundation of the Garda Síochána in the Free State, the barracks was restored and became the local Garda Station until 1987, and now there is informative exhibition on the history of the castle.

• OPENING HOURS :
  • 21st May-23rd Sep: Daily: 10-18
    • Last admission: 17:15
• TICKET PRICES :
  • Free
• TELEPHONE :
  • +353 58 48144
• CAR PARK :
  • Town car park