Sign in with Facebook- Join for free
- Sign In
Sign in with Facebook
Helpfulness
Aughnanure Castle was built in the 16th century by the O'Flahertys. It sits alongside the Drimnneen River, the banks of which which you have to walk to get to the place. The short walk is lovely, through a small wooded area and then you spot the castle through the trees, looming up above you on the opposite bank.
The castle is well placed on the low cliff above the river, which allowed boats to bring supplies right up to the gate of the fortification.
Although called a castle, this type of building is really a tower house, which were fortified residences that were places of power and control over the surrounding area.
Opening times:-
May - Mid June Sat - Sun 09:30-18:00
Mid June - End September Daily 09:30-18:00
October Sat - Sun 09:30-18:00
Last Admission 45 mins. before closing
Average Length of Visit: 1 hour
Prices in Euros:-
Adult: 2.50
Group and Senior Citizen: 1.90
Child/Student: 1.20
Family Rate: 6.30
Updated Apr 4, 2011
Address: 3.5km from Oughterard off N59 - Oughterard to Galw
Phone: 91 552214
Helpfulness
The name "Aughnanure" comes from the Gaelic "Achadh na nlubhar" or "field of Yews" in English.
Because of its strength and durability, the wood was used for all sorts of utensils, from axe handles to flooring. yew wood was also used in the production of the bow, because of of its high tensile strength and elastic properties.
Sadly, only one Yew is now left standing on the bank of the river, just before you get to the visitors entrance.
Written Jul 2, 2003
The view from the castle is lovely. Unfortuantely, there is no access to the roof which I was disapponited with, as I am sure the view would have been excellent.
Had we know about this place before we visited, I think we would have aimed to arrive about lunch time and taken a picnic with us to eat in the grounds.
Written Jul 2, 2003
Wheelchair access is restricted due to the stair that you have to climb to see all the rooms of this castle.
Updated Jul 2, 2003
This photos show what is graffically called a murder hole. Basically, The hole in the floor was the last port of defence of the Castle, should any enemies have got past the security of the outer walls..
It was a hole that was built above the main door to the keep. if anyone attempted to approach the door to breaj in, then they would be met with a hail of arrows or boiling hot oil coming out of the hole.
Updated Jul 2, 2003
Helpfulness
There is no furniture or hangings in Aughnanure Castle, just bare, white washed walls for you to inspect, although there are one or two information plaques set up explaining the part of the residence that you are in.
This picture show the minstral gallery from which musicians played to entertain their lords and ladies when they were in the main hall.
Updated Jul 2, 2003
Helpfulness
Although this type of place was a residence, they were not very comfortable. Because they were a place of refuge for the local farmers in time of strife, many of the rooms were kept bare of luxuries.
Written Jul 2, 2003
Aughnanure Castle can be found on a small side road, off the N59, just past Oughterand going north away from Galway.
Build your own Aughnanure Castle page
Comments