Knappogue Castle

Knappogue Castle

A tower house of County Clare

In the green countryside of County Clare, in the west of Ireland, stands the handsome Knappogue Castle, a tall and well-preserved tower house. County Clare is famous for having more tower houses than almost anywhere else in Ireland — these tall, narrow stone castles of the Gaelic and Norman lords once dotted the landscape in their dozens — and Knappogue is one of the finest of them all.

Built by the MacNamaras

Knappogue Castle was built in 1467 by the MacNamara family, a powerful clan who controlled much of this part of Clare and who are said to have built dozens of castles across their lands. The tower house, strong and tall with battlements and corner turrets, was both a family home and a stronghold in uncertain times.

The MacNamaras held Knappogue for generations, and it remained an important seat through the turbulent centuries of Irish history. During the wars of the 1600s the castle changed hands, but unlike many others it survived without being destroyed.

A castle restored

Over the centuries Knappogue passed through various owners, who added to and altered it, and at times it fell into decline. But in the 20th century the castle was carefully and lovingly restored, bringing it back to life as a fine example of an Irish tower house furnished in the medieval style.

This restoration means that today visitors can experience Knappogue much as it might have looked in its heyday, with period furnishings, tapestries and atmosphere.

Medieval banquets

Knappogue is best known today for its medieval banquets, held in the great hall of the tower house. Guests are welcomed by costumed hosts, served a hearty meal with wine, and entertained with music, song and stories celebrating Ireland's history and culture. These banquets, like those at nearby Bunratty and Dunguaire, have delighted visitors from around the world and bring the age of the tower houses joyfully back to life.

A walled garden

Beside the castle lies a restored walled garden, a peaceful spot of flowers, herbs and greenery enclosed by old stone walls. It adds to the charm of a visit and recalls the gardens that often accompanied such castles, providing food and beauty for the household.

Visiting today

Visitors can tour the restored tower house, climbing through its floors to see how a Gaelic family lived and defended themselves, and explore the walled garden. In the evenings, the famous medieval banquets fill the great hall with food, music and storytelling. Handsome, well-restored and full of fun, Knappogue Castle is one of the most enjoyable tower houses to visit in the west of Ireland.