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Dungarvan Castle
Dungarvan, Co. Waterford
Free to visit
Family friendly
Paid car parking
Rainy days
Dungarvan Castle consists of a polygonal shell keep with an enclosing curtain wall, a corner tower and a gate tower. The shell keep is the earliest structure, dating from the 12th century.

Dungarvan Castle is an Anglo-Norman fortification founded in 1185. It was built in a very strategic location at the mouth of the River Colligan. From here, ships could be anchored and soldiers could command the narrow strip of land to the south of the Comeragh Mountains which linked East and West Waterford.

The castle consists of a polygonal shell keep with an enclosing curtain wall, a corner tower and a gate tower. The shell keep is the earliest structure, dating from the 12th century 'Norman Invasion of Ireland'. This castle was built by King John of England and is a typical example of a British Royal Castle.

Shell keeps are common in England, but rare in Ireland. Inside the curtain wall is a two storey military barracks, which dates from the first half of the 18th century. The barracks is now restored and houses an informative exhibition on the history of the castle.

Tips from locals

Savour a delicious meal at the renowned Tannery Restaurant close by.

Contact details
Dungarvan Castle,At eastern end of Davitt's Quay/Castle Street,Dungarvan,Co Waterford,Republic of Ireland
Visit duration

We recommend planning to spend 30 minutes to 1 hour here.

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