Discover Blarney Castle: History, Legends & A Special Giveaway!
Discover Blarney Castle
Discover Blarney Castle:
History, Legends & A Special Giveaway!
- www.blarneycastle.ie
- Co. Cork
Blarney Castle in County Cork is one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks. Known for its rich history, stunning gardens, and the legendary Blarney Stone, this medieval fortress attracts visitors from all over the world. But there’s more to Blarney Castle than just kissing a stone – read on to uncover fascinating facts, hidden stories, and an exclusive giveaway!
A Castle with a Story
The current Blarney Castle was built in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy, King of Munster, but the site has been home to fortifications for much longer. The first structure was a wooden fort around the 10th century, later replaced by a stone building in 1210. Today’s castle has stood for centuries, witnessing battles, sieges, and legends unfold.
We asked the castle’s marketing manager, Paul O’Sullivan:
Trident Holiday Homes: What is the most surprising historical fact about Blarney Castle?
Paul O’Sullivan: Blarney Castle took over 40 years to build!
The Legend of the Blarney Stone
The Blarney Stone is one of Ireland’s most famous traditions. Legend says that kissing the stone grants the gift of eloquence – meaning you’ll never be lost for words again!
The origins of the stone’s power are unclear, but one tale claims it was a gift from Robert the Bruce in 1314, while another suggests a goddess told an Irish lord to kiss it for good luck.
To kiss the stone, visitors must climb to the top of the castle and lean backward over the edge. Many famous figures, including Winston Churchill, have taken on this challenge!
Enchanted Gardens & Hidden Secret
Beyond the castle walls, Blarney Castle Gardens stretch across 60 acres, featuring:
● The Rock Close – A mystical area believed to have been a druidic settlement, with ancient stones, yew trees, and a Wishing Step where dreams are said to come true.
● The Poison Garden – A fascinating collection of deadly plants, including wolfsbane and mandrake, with signs explaining their history.
● The Garden of the Seven Sisters – A peaceful space linked to an old family legend of lost fortune.
The castle is also rumored to have secret tunnels, possibly leading to Cork and Kerry, used by defenders in times of danger.
Trident Holiday Homes: Are there any ghost stories or supernatural tales associated with the castle?
Paul O’Sullivan: There is a witch involved in the story of kissing the stone. She was the person who made the lord aware of the magical powers of the Blarney Stone
When to Visit & Hidden Gems
Trident Holiday Homes: What is the best time of year to visit Blarney Castle, and why?
Paul O’Sullivan: May is a lovely month as the gardens are fantastic during that month but Oct is also brilliant with the vast array of autumn colour.
And for those looking to go beyond the usual tourist trail, we asked:
Trident Holiday Homes: What hidden or lesser-known feature of the castle do you think visitors should explore?
Paul O’Sullivan: The Murder Hole. This was a defensive feature within the Castle which consisted of a hole in the floor which soldiers could pour hot oil down on top of any attackers trying to get into the Castle.
Famous Faces at Blarney Castle
Over the years, Blarney Castle has welcomed many visitors, from celebrities to historical figures. Curious about the most notable guests, we asked:
Trident Holiday Homes: Can you share any stories about famous or unexpected visitors to Blarney Castle?
Paul O’Sullivan: We have had some many famous people ranging from Sir Winston Churchill and Laurel and Hardy to Sofia Vergara and Eddie Redemayne.
Enter Our Giveaway: You know you’re in Ireland when…
We’re giving one lucky winner a Family Day Pass to Blarney Castle. This includes:
● Entry to Blarney Castle
● A chance to kiss the famous Blarney Stone
● Full access to the beautiful gardens
You know you’re in Ireland when…
Finish the sentence in the comments below for a chance to win a family pass to Blarney Castle & Gardens!
How to Enter:
- Follow us @tridentholidayhomes
- Comment your funniest or most relatable ending to “You know you’re in Ireland when…”
- Bonus entry if you tag a friend who would get the joke
Enter on both: Facebook/Instagram: to double your chances.
Competition closes: Wed, 9.04.2025 (noon)
Winner announced: Fri, 11.04.2024
Get involved and share your best Irish moments! Good luck in the giveaway, and we hope to see you at Blarney Castle soon.
Discover the Magic of Blarney Castle and Stay Across County Cork
Blarney Castle is a place of magic, history, and adventure. Whether you visit to kiss the stone, explore the gardens, or uncover its secrets, it’s an experience you won’t forget. Blarney Castle is a place of magic, history, and adventure. Whether you visit to kiss the stone, explore the gardens, or uncover its secrets, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
For those planning a trip to Blarney Castle, why not make the most of your visit by staying in County Cork? We have a fantastic selection of holiday homes throughout the county, offering easy access to the castle and many other top attractions. Whether you’re looking for a family getaway or a quiet retreat, you’ll find the perfect base for your adventure.
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