Direction Ireland

Dysert O'Dea Castle

West Ireland | County Clare

Dysert O'Dea Castle is located 5 km south of Corofin in County Clare (signposted on the road R476). This defensive tower house was built between 1470 and 1490 by Diarmuid O'Dea, Lord of Fearmaic. Castle had a turbulent history, changing the owners many times but always was coming back into the possession of the O'Dea clan. In 1651, the stronghold became a Cromwellian garrison but was regained by O'Deas again. After the Battle of Boyne Castle and its lands was granted to Synge family and gradually began to fall into ruin. In 1970's O'Dea descendants purchased and restored the ruined castle which now is open to the public and became home of Dysert O'Dea Castle Archaeology Centre. Superbly renovated, the five storey tower house contains many interesting artefacts, furnishings and defensive features, such as 'murder hole'. Beside the castle are remains of banquet hall which was built around 1500. Surrounding area contains over 25 field monuments of historical and archaeological interest (date from 1000BC to 1850), which together with the castle form the Dysert O'Dea Archaeology Trail. Without doubt, the one of the most interesting places of this historical trail is St Tola's Church with fine romanesque doorway, round tower and magnificent high cross.

• OPENING HOURS :
  • 1st May to 30th September
    • Daily: 10.00 AM – 6PM
  • Other times by appointment
• TICKET PRICES :
  • Adult: €4
  • Adult(group rate): €3.50
  • Senior/Student: €3.50
  • Children: €2.50
  • Family (2+3): €10
• CONTACT :
  • Phone: +353-(0)65-6837401
  • Email: info@dysertcastle.com
  • Website: www.dysertcastle.com
• CAR PARK :
  • Yes