Cahir Castle Tours

Cahir Castle
Cahir Castle


Cahir Castle is a true survivor. Despite siege and bombardment it has endured for centuries, only to stand today as one of Ireland’s largest and best preserved castles. This imposing Anglo-Norman stronghold is a must-see for anyone intrigued by the county’s rich history.

Originally erected in the mid-12th Century, Cahir Castle was designed by Conor O’Brien to be an impregnable defensive fortress. It stands at a key strategic location on an island in the River Suir, and almost appears to have grown organically from the rock itself.

The castle passed into the hands of the powerful Butler family in 1375 since then it has fallen three times. The first was in 1599, during the Nine Years War, following three days of siege by the Earl of Essex who was leading a campaign against rebels in the region. A cannonball fired during this siege can still be seen lodged in the castle wall today.

Cahir Castle fell again to Inchiquin in 1647 and then to Cromwell in 1650. Clearly aware of the castle’s immense potential, Cromwell did not dismantle it as he did so many others. For this we can be truly thankful.

Once today’s visitors have crossed the river bridge to the castle, they can climb winding stairways to the lofty battlements, duck through networks of narrow hallways, walk through furnished rooms and even pop down to the dungeons. Informative tour guides, documentary films and detailed models help bring the past to life. As immersive historical experiences go, Cahir Castle is hard to beat.

Plan a trip to see Cahir Castle

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Absolute Hotel Limerick
No. 1 Pery Square Hotel & Spa
The Lake Hotel Killarney

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Cahir Castle

Cahir House Hotel

Cahir House Hotel

3 out of 5
The Square, Cahir, Tipperary
Cahir House Hotel
Talbot Hotel Clonmel

Talbot Hotel Clonmel

4 out of 5
Cahir Road, Clonmel, Tipperary
Talbot Hotel Clonmel
THE DAIRY, with open fire in Ardfinnan, County Tipperary

THE DAIRY, with open fire in Ardfinnan, County Tipperary

Clonmel
THE DAIRY, with open fire in Ardfinnan, County Tipperary
Ryan's Loft

Ryan's Loft

3.5 out of 5
Ardfinnan
Ryan's Loft
Luxury Irish Castle in Gorgeous Country Setting in Tipperary

Luxury Irish Castle in Gorgeous Country Setting in Tipperary

Bansha
Luxury Irish Castle in Gorgeous Country Setting in Tipperary
Spectacular country house set in 200 acre estate.

Spectacular country house set in 200 acre estate.

Bansha
Spectacular country house set in 200 acre estate.
Hotel Minella

Hotel Minella

4 out of 5
Coleville Road, Clonmel
Hotel Minella
Garden Cottage

Garden Cottage

3 out of 5
Market Street Garden Cot, 1, Clogheen, County Tipperary
Garden Cottage
Cashel Palace Hotel

Cashel Palace Hotel

5 out of 5
Main Street 1, Cashel, Tipperary
Cashel Palace Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Cahir Castle

When visiting Cahir Castle in County Tipperary, tourists can enjoy a variety of activities such as walking along the scenic trails, playing a round of golf, or indulging in relaxation at a local spa. Explore the rich history of the area through guided tours of the castle and nearby historical buildings, as well as the Butler Trail, which showcases Cahir's cultural heritage and provides a perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday.

Food and drinks

Explore the heart of Cahir at The Local, where you can savor traditional Irish dishes. For a taste of seafood, visit The Fisherman’s Catch. Don’t miss the charming cafes like The Coffee Shop, offering delightful treats and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for a break after visiting Cahir Castle.

Shopping

While visiting Cahir Castle, don’t miss the Cahir Farmers Market, located only 0.2 miles away, offering a charming atmosphere for local goods. If you're up for a drive, Tipperary Town Plaza and Tipp Town Shopping Centre, both 13 miles away, provide a broader shopping experience with various shops and family-friendly vibes.

Recreation

Clonmel Golf Club offers a scenic 18-hole course, perfect for golf enthusiasts seeking outdoor recreation. Nearby, Clonmel Greyhound Stadium provides an exciting atmosphere for sports fans, while Slievenamon Golf Course boasts stunning views and a challenging layout for a refreshing day on the greens.

Nightlife

In Cahir, the Bru Boru Cultural Centre offers a vibrant blend of culture and entertainment, located 10 miles from Cahir Castle. Enjoy captivating theater performances that provide a romantic and family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for a delightful night out.

Find the best attractions near Cahir Castle

While visiting Cahir Castle in County Tipperary, explore nearby attractions like charming churches and scenic beaches. This area offers a rich cultural experience, perfect for those seeking romance and outdoor adventures. Don't miss the chance to visit other significant sites, including the impressive Tullamore Castle and iconic rocky islands that enhance the landscape. Cahir Castle and its surroundings provide a delightful mix of history and natural beauty for travelers.

  • Swiss Cottage: Just a half-mile from Cahir Castle, Swiss Cottage offers a unique glimpse into 19th-century architecture and design. Nestled in a picturesque setting, this historic house is a perfect spot to soak up cultural vibes and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the surrounding gardens.
  • Rock of Cashel: Located 10 miles away, the Rock of Cashel is a breathtaking medieval castle steeped in history. With its romantic atmosphere and stunning views, this site combines rich culture with dramatic landscapes, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
  • Marlfield Lake: An 8-mile journey leads you to Marlfield Lake, a serene spot ideal for outdoor activities. Enjoy the beach-like scenery, perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, or simply relaxing by the water while embracing the tranquil ambiance.

Best time to go to Cahir Castle

Visitor numbers around Cahir Castle is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Cahir Castle can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Cahir Castle falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Cahir Castle falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January40.1°F (4.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
February41.0°F (5.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March42.4°F (5.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
May50.9°F (10.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
July58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
August57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
September54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
October50.2°F (10.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
November44.1°F (6.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
December41.4°F (5.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cahir Castle

To save money during your visit to Cahir Castle, consider traveling during the cheaper months of November to January when accommodations are more affordable. Utilize Expedia to find last-minute deals and filter for eco-friendly hotels within your budget. Look for free nearby attractions like Carey's Castle to enhance your experience without extra cost. Combine your hotel stay with flights and activities for additional savings through Expedia package deals. Lastly, join Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future bookings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Cahir Castle are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Cahir Castle is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, by selecting the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll find a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Cahir Castle with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.