Donegal Castle

Location Donegal, Co Donegal History The 17th Century ruins of Donegal Castle dominate the town of Donegal and as the seat of the power of the O'Donnell Chieftains, it is entwined with the history of the county and the province of Ulster. Standing on a rocky outcrop in the centre of Donegal Town, the 17th Century castle is linked to the powerful dynasties of Ulster and a fine surviving example of a Scots Planter fortified home. Donegal Castle was once the principle residence of the O'Donnells one of the leading Gaelic Clans who trace their ancestry back to Niall of the Nine Hostages of the 5th Century. With this as their centre of power the O'Donnells ruled the area of Tir Connell, much of Donegal and were renowned mariners and fishermen. However following their defeat in the Battle of Kinsale by the English in the early 17th Century, the O'Donnells left Ireland along with the O'Neills and other Gaelic chiefs, in what is known as "the Flight of the Earls". Donegal Castle was then granted to an English Captain, Basil Brooke, who rebuilt the previous medieval castle into a more comfortable residence in the 17th Century style with a fortified tower, Jacobean Manor house and curtain wall. However the Brookes weren't to stay for long and after Cromwell's rout of Ireland the castle was left to fall into ruin. The Tower House of the castle has been carefully restored to its former glory. Excellent guided tours take you around the rooms of the castle, which have been presented to outline the different styles and times of its two sets of previous owners. Details Opening Times Mid March - End October Daily 10:00-18:00 Last admission 45 mins. before closing. Groups must be pre-booked. Visit Length 1hr Admission Adult EUR 3.50 Child EUR 1.25 Student EUR 1.25 Senior EUR 2.50 Family EUR 8.25 Group EUR 2.50 *Free Admission with Discovering Ireland Vacation Information Leaflets: Yes Guided Tours: Yes Audio Visual: Yes Exhibition: Yes Facilities Restaurant: Yes Car Park: Yes Coach Park: Yes Disabled Access: Yes