Built around 1220 by William Marshal on the site of the former stronghold of Diarmait Mac Murchada, King of Leinster, whose 1169 invitation to Strongbow and the Normans began the Norman invasion of Ireland. Its distinctive circular corner towers, one containing an intact vaulted chapel, still stand in the heart of the historic village of Ferns.
Visiting Ferns Castle (in ruins)
Yes, OPW managed, seasonal access
"Built around 1220 by William Marshal on the site of the former stronghold of Diarmait Mac Murchada, King of Leinster, whose 1169 invitation to Strongbow and the Normans began the Norman invasion of Ireland."
Where to stay nearby
The closest castle hotel is Wilton Castle, 7.85 km away in Enniscorthy — A fortified tower has stood on the site since at least 1247; remodelled into its current castellated Gothic form in 1837 by architect Daniel Robertson, then burned by arsonists in 1923 and later restored.
Nearest castle hotel · 7.85 km
Wilton Castle
Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford · boutique / luxury
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