Ferns Castle

About the museum

Before the Normans arrived, Ferns was the political base of Diarmait Mac Murchada, King of Leinster. William Marshal, Earl Marshal, built the castle around 1200, and it has had many owners of different political and military allegiances since then.

The castle was originally square with large corner towers. Only half of it still stands, but the surviving tower is impressive. It contains a circular chapel, several original fireplaces and a vaulted basement, and there is a wide view from the top.

The visitor centre houses the Ferns Tapestry, a 15-metre-long work of crewel wool embroidery made of 25 panels. It was stitched by members of the local community and tells the story of Ferns before the Norman conquest. The castle is run by the Office of Public Works and can be entered only on a guided tour.

Highlights

• Ferns Tapestry, 15 metres long with 25 panels
• Circular chapel in the surviving tower
• Views from the top of the tower
• Guided tour of a Norman castle

Permanent exhibition

• The Ferns Tapestry – A 15-metre crewel embroidery of 25 panels, stitched by local people, shows the history of Ferns before the Norman conquest.

Operated by

Office of Public Works (OPW), Heritage Ireland

Admission & discounts

Admission is free.

Admission is free.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

There is an accessible toilet. Visitors are asked to hold the handrails, and only assistance dogs are allowed. A social guide PDF helps first-time visitors, families and people with developmental or learning disabilities to prepare.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The castle is in the centre of Ferns, beside The Square.

Amenities & dining

There are toilets and cards are accepted.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit