Top Things to do in County Kildare
Countries
Top 5 Castles in County Kildare, Province of Leinster
Discover the best top things to do in County Kildare, Ireland including Maynooth Castle, Castledermot Friary, Leixlip Castle, Castledermot Round Tower, Whites Castle & Crom-a Boo Bridge.
Restaurants in County Kildare
1. Maynooth Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 160 reviews
Maynooth Castle is a mid to late 12th Century Norman castle with a history that is both intriguing and exciting. The stronghold of the Fitzgerald family, the castle has stood on this site in the centre of Maynooth for over 8 centuries. Today, Maynooth Castle holds a detailed exhibition on the history of the Fitzgerald family, one of the most important Anglo-Norman families in Ireland. PLEASE NOTE - Maynooth Castle is a seasonal site and is only opening during the summer months. Open daily 10.00am - 17.45pm (Including public Hoildays) Free admission and Free Guided Tours. last guided tour 16.30pm. (45-60mins approx.) For self guiding visitors- Within the undercroft of the castle, an exhibit detailing the history of the FitzGerald family. Upper level holds the remains of the Great Hall. Feel free to visit the castle grounds also. (35-40 mins approx.) Visitor Guides / Post cards available to purchase. Maynooth is also open during Culture Night 2018
Reviewed By Journiemernie
If you're in the neighborhood and have the chance to explore here, it is so worth it! So much history in one location! I had a lovely time exploring the grounds and taking in the sheer size of the remaining Castle pieces. Inside the exhibit, I was blown away by the amount of information I could learn about the Castle, Fitzgerald Family, and the complex history of Medieval Ireland/England. There is even a small model of what the Castle had looked like in it's hay-day, really bringing into perspective where you are standing. I struck up a conversation with one of the workers, Mary, and she was very knowledgeable of the site as well as super nice. One of the highlights of my stay in Ireland!
2. Castledermot Friary
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 10 reviews
Reviewed By Jessyokley - Lawrenceburg, United States
These ruins are absolutely majestic. It's amazing to see and imagine how the builders accomplished this feat. We were completely alone, making for a peaceful tour. Be sure to climb the old steps to the other side.
