Overview
Aughnanure Castle commands the south bank of the Drimneen River, just west of Oughterard. This 16th-century tower house served as the headquarters of the O’Flaherty clan, the dominant lords of Iar-Connacht. Today, it stands as one of the most complete Gaelic castles in Ireland, distinguished by its rare double bawn and dramatic setting on the limestone shores of Lough Corrib. Managed by the Office of Public Works, the site is open from late February through mid-November and offers a tangible connection to the medieval power struggles of western Ireland.
Name and Landscape
The Irish name Achadh na nIubhar translates to “field of the yews”. A veteran yew tree still stands at the main entrance, a living link to the site’s original description. The castle occupies a strategic limestone peninsula where the Drimneen River narrows. This position allowed the O’Flahertys to control movement between the lake and the Atlantic coast. Foundations of a dry harbour below the walls show that supply boats could be pulled up directly to the castle gate, ensuring the stronghold could be resupplied even during sieges.
History
The O’Flahertys (Ó Flaithbheartaigh) built the present tower house around 1500, though some evidence suggests an earlier fortification may have been erected by Walter de Burgo after the clan was temporarily displaced in the 13th century. For three centuries, Aughnanure was the clan’s principal bastion, used to defend against rival Gaelic families and the encroaching power of the merchant town of Galway.
The castle’s history took a sharp turn in 1572 when Sir Edward Fitton seized the stronghold and handed it to a junior O’Flaherty who pledged allegiance to the English Crown. This act fractured the clan’s unity and weakened their hold on the region. The castle later changed hands during the 1641 rebellion and the Cromwellian siege of Galway. In 1952, Peadar O’Flaherty donated the ruin to the State. Extensive restoration in the 1960s rebuilt the parapet, chimney, and roof, and the site reopened to the public in 1974.
The castle is also linked to Grace O’Malley, the famed pirate queen, who married Donal O’Flaherty here. The O’Flahertys were feared neighbours; a plaque once hung over Galway’s western gate warning citizens: “From the ferocious O’Flahertys, oh Lord deliver us.”
Architecture Highlights
Aughnanure is renowned for its defensive sophistication, particularly the double bawn – an inner wedge-shaped enclosure surrounded by a larger outer wall with five towers. This layout forced attackers to breach two lines of defence before reaching the tower house.
Key features include:
- Watchtower: A circular tower at the south-eastern corner with a finely corbelled dome and conical stone roof.
- Machicolation and Murder Hole: Above the eastern doorway, a stone overhang and a hole in the floor allowed defenders to drop stones or boiling liquids on intruders.
- Banqueting Hall: The ruined hall features stone reliefs of grapes and vines, indicating the O’Flahertys imported wine and hosted lavish feasts.
- Secret Chamber: An opening in the garderobe floor leads to a vaulted chamber used for prisoners or secure storage.
- Bartizans and Gun-loops: Small projecting turrets on the third floor and narrow slits for muskets provide overlapping fields of fire.
- Drawbridge and Gatehouse: Remains of the gatehouse and drawbridge guard the north-western entrance.
- Underground Stream: A water-spout still feeds a small stream that runs beneath the castle, providing a fresh water source.
Legends and Folklore
Local folklore adds an eerie layer to the ruins. Stories tell of a gamekeeper’s ghost, a rolling head, and the wail of a banshee. The most popular tale involves a trapdoor in the banqueting hall that supposedly dropped unwelcome guests into the river below. While likely a fabrication to deter enemies or scare servants, the story gives the hall a reputation for treachery. Interpretive panels on site explore these legends alongside the historical record.
What to See & Do
- Climb the Tower: The narrow spiral staircase leads to the battlements, offering panoramic views across Lough Corrib, the Drimneen River, and the Connemara hills.
- Explore the Bawns: Walk the perimeter of the double bawn and examine the watchtower, a unique defensive feature in Irish castles.
- Visit the Banqueting Hall: View the grape-vine reliefs and learn about medieval feasting and the O’Flaherty lifestyle.
- Discover the Harbour: See the dry harbour foundations and the underground stream that sustained the garrison.
- Family Exploration: The open layout, battlements, and hidden nooks make the castle engaging for children. The spiral staircase offers a safe climb for older kids.
- Photography: The elevated position and river setting provide excellent photo opportunities, particularly at sunrise when the light reflects off the water.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
- Main Season: 27 Feb – 29 Oct: 9:30 am – 6:00 pm (last admission 5:15 pm).
- Late Season: 30 Oct – 18 Nov: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm (last admission 4:15 pm).
Admission
- Adult: €5.00
- Group / Senior: €4.00
- Child / Student: €3.00
- Family (2 adults + 2 children): €13.00
Facilities and Access
- Parking: Free car parking and a dedicated coach park are available on site.
- Dogs: Leashed dogs are welcome on the grounds.
- Accessibility: The visitor centre and ground-level exhibition area are accessible via a smooth path. The historic tower stairs are steep and uneven, making the upper floors inaccessible to wheelchairs.
- Toilets: Public toilets are located near the visitor centre.
- Café: A small café serves light refreshments during the main season.
Getting There
The castle is located 3.5 km off the N59, just north of Oughterard. It is well signposted, and a short turn leads directly to the car park. Public transport options include local buses from Galway to Oughterard, followed by a walk.
Nearby Attractions
For a different perspective on Lough Corrib, Ashford Castle lies to the south, offering a luxury hotel experience set within a 13th-century castle and extensive parklands.
Visiting Tips
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available for groups and run daily during the main season. In the late season, they operate on weekends only. Book in advance via the OPW visitor centre.
- Stairs: The spiral staircase is narrow and steep. Younger children may need assistance, and visitors with mobility issues should stick to the ground level.
- Best Light: Early morning visits often provide clearer views and fewer crowds, with soft light enhancing the stonework.
- Check Updates: Verify guided tour schedules and café opening times on the official website before your visit, as these can vary by season.