Dungarvan Castle

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.

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.

Today the Barracks and Castle grounds are open to visitors as an official OPW heritage site. Inside you will find a revealing exhibition on the Castle’s long and intriguing history.

Opening Times

26 May – 3 October 2022

Daily 10am – 6pm

Last admission 45 minutes before closing. Free admission.