Dysert O'Dea Castle
Dysert, Corofin, Co. Clare, Ireland
Céad Míle Fáilte
Welcome to Dysert O'Dea Castle. Allow us to provide an overview of what's on offer, and illustrate why a visit to the castle and the surrounding archaeological monuments are a must-see on your trip to County Clare.
The Castle
The authentically restored 15th century Dysert O’Dea castle was the stronghold of the O’Dea clan, and has been the recipient of numerous national awards.
Built in 1480 by Diarmuid O’Dea, Lord of Cineal Fearmaic, the uppermost floors and staircase were badly damaged by the Cromwellians in 1651. Before re-opening in 1986, they were expertly repaired and restored.
The old castle contains ten rooms over four floors, with a wide selection of interesting features, providing the visitor with an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of medieval Ireland's powerful families, and to learn about the people who lived here.
The Church
Dysert O’Dea Church dates mainly from the 12th century and stands on the site of an early Christian monastery.
Its most famous feature is the Romanesque Doorway. One of the more prominent features of the church is the remains of the Round Tower, standing on the building’s north-west corner. The High Cross, west of the church, dates from 12th century and is one of the finest examples of its kind in Ireland.
Archaeology Trail
Surrounding the castle is an archaeological trail (4km) containing 25 original field monuments. The trail can be walked or driven, and is open all year round.
The monuments span dates from 1000BC to 1850AD, including two Romanesque Churches, the famous 12th Century Illuminated Doorway and High Cross of Dysert O’Dea, two 15th Century Tower Houses, 1st Millennium Stone and Earthen Forts, Holy Wells, Fulachta Fiadh (ancient cooking places), Proselytising Schools, Landlords’ Houses, medieval roads, and more. These are shown and explained on the Guide and Map available at the Castle.
Walking Trails
There are two walking trails around the various monuments:
Short (300m)
This walk encompasses:
- Illuminated High Cross (12th Century)
- Abbey Ruins with elaborate Romanesque Doorway (12th Century)
- Round Tower (12th Century)
- Sacred Well
- Medieval Graveyard
Long (5km)
This walk encompasses:
- Rath Castle (15th Century, ruins)
- Rath Bláthmhaic (Medieval Earthen Fort)
- Cathair Mhic Gormáin (Medieval Stone Fort)
- Cathair Mhic Eoghain (Medieval Stone Fort)
- St. Tola's Well
- Proselytising School (ruined 1823)
The High Cross
The High Cross, situated east of the church, dates from the 12th century and is one of the finest examples of its kind in Ireland.
The Archaeology/History Trail features 25 sites, all within a few kilometres radius of the castle.
Admission & Opening Hours
| Admission Fees | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | €6 | ||
| Child | €4 | ||
| Family (2 Adults & up to 3 Children) | €15 | ||
| Students / Senior Citizens | €4 | ||
| Concession | €3 | ||
| Groups | €5 (each) | ||
| Opening Hours (May-Aug) | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 10am–5pm | ||
| Tuesday | 10am–5pm | ||
| Wednesday | 10am–5pm | ||
| Thursday | 10am–5pm | ||
| Friday | 10am–5pm | ||
| Weekends | 10am–5pm | ||
Latest News
We reopen in May 2025 and are excited for the coming season.
Visitor Reviews
Local Amenities
Contact Us
Tel: 087 604 1599
E-mail: info@dysertcastle.ie
Dysart O'Dea Castle Limited,
Corofin,
County Clare,
V95 A294,
Ireland
How to find us
Located at the gateway to the Burren Region, 5 kms south of Corofin, and 11 kms north of Ennis.
If approaching from Ennis (N85) take a right for Corofin (R476). After 6 kms (4 miles) take a left at a crossroads. As you travel down this road, follow the signposts to take a right to bring you to the centre.
Free Coach and Car parking on the grounds.
