Dungarvan Castle
A Norman castle and 18th-century barracks at Dungarvan harbour with an exhibition on its history, open in the summer season with free entry.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
Dungarvan Castle was built around 1209 in the early years of the Anglo-Norman settlement to guard the entrance to Dungarvan Harbour. Its oldest part is a polygonal shell keep, a rare building type in Ireland. The castle has a curtain wall, a corner tower and a gate tower.
Inside the walls stands a two-storey military barracks from the first half of the 18th century. It was used by the British Army and the Royal Irish Constabulary until 1922. During the Irish Civil War the castle was destroyed by anti-Treaty forces, and it was later refurbished and served as the headquarters of the local Garda Síochána.
Today the barracks and the castle grounds are open to visitors in the summer season. An exhibition inside tells the long history of the castle, and guided tours and an audio-visual show are offered. The site is run by the Office of Public Works and entry is free.
Highlights
- Polygonal shell keep from about 1209
- Exhibition on the castle’s history
- 18th-century military barracks
- Guided tours and an audio-visual show
- Free admission
Permanent exhibition
- Dungarvan Castle exhibition – An exhibition in the barracks tells the long history of the castle, from the Norman keep to its later use as barracks and police headquarters.
- Operated by
- Office of Public Works (OPW), Heritage Ireland
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Admission is free.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible
- Elevator
- Accessible restroom
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome: no information
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
The site is listed as wheelchair accessible, with a lift and an accessible toilet. Visitors are asked to hold the handrails. A social guide PDF helps first-time visitors, families and people with developmental or learning disabilities to prepare.
Kids & families
- Baby changing facilities
Baby changing is available. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Getting there & parking
The castle is at the eastern end of Davitt’s Quay and Castle Street in the centre of Dungarvan.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
There are toilets.
Events & venue rental
- Spaces for rent
- Weddings / ceremonies
The castle is listed as a wedding venue.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Good to know | Guided tours and an audio-visual show are offered. Cycling is not allowed in the grounds. |
