CASTLES COUNTY CARLOW

Huntington Castle in Clonegal, County Carlow, was built in 1625 as a strategic garrison on the historic Wexford-Dublin route. This 17th-century house showcases remarkable architecture and period features, including the distinctive Yew Tree Walk with centuries-old yews, a French Lime Avenue planted in 1680, and an unusual Temple of the Goddess Isis in the basement. The formal gardens, laid out primarily in the 1680s, feature Italian-style parterres and elegant landscaping set alongside water features. Now privately owned and open to guided tours during summer months, the castle welcomes visitors to explore its interiors and grounds, with a courtyard tearoom serving locally baked refreshments. Accommodation is available as bed-and-breakfast or self-catering apartments.

Ballymoon Castle, a National Monument situated near Bagenalstown in County Carlow, dates from the 13th century and is thought to have been built by Roger Bigod or a member of the Carew family. The castle's imposing square courtyard surrounded by 8-foot-thick granite walls rising 20 feet high, combined with its massive gatehouse, reflects an ambitious design never fully completed, creating a distinctive architectural statement. Three corners feature projecting square towers while the gatehouse displays an distinctive arched gateway, and the castle remains accessible to visitors free of charge via a small wooden bridge, inviting exploration of this enigmatic medieval fortress.

Tinnahinch Castle is a ruined tower house erected in 1615 by James Butler near the River Barrow in County Carlow to control passage over the river. The rectangular structure features a stair tower at the southwest angle, machicolations protecting the doorway, and a bartizan on the northeast angle, representing characteristic medieval defensive architecture. Strengthened by the Confederates during the Irish Confederate Wars of 1641, the castle was subsequently burnt in 1700. Located on private property with windows lost to theft and a deteriorating barbican structure, the tower presents challenges for preservation and remains endangered.

Ballyloughan Castle is a ruined Norman fortress near Bagenalstown, County Carlow, constructed around 1300 and designated as a National Monument. The castle features a distinctive twin-towered gatehouse, considered one of Ireland's finest examples of its type, along with remnants of the hall and corner tower foundations. Originally square in form with walls reaching 15 metres high and 5 feet thick, the castle was occupied by the Kavanagh family before passing to the Bagenals. Though situated off the beaten track down a side road, its substantial ruins remain visible and offer insight into 13th-century Anglo-Norman architecture.