Barryscourt Castle

One of the finest example of an Irish tower-house, Barryscourt Castle was built between 1392 and 1420 during the reign of 7^th Lord Barry, John Ciotach Barry. From 1420 onwards Barryscourt castle was the main seat for the next 6 Lords Barrymore. The 13^th lord Barrymore, John was father to the 1^st Viscount Barry John Barry who was born in 1517 and died in 1553. The second marriage of the 3^rd Viscount James Barrymore to Ellen MacCartie, produced a daughter Katherine. Only male heirs were entitled to inherit. Katherine was married to Richard Power, 4^th Baron le Power and Coroghmore. This ends the main bloodline of the original Barry’s. James, in 1556 settled his estates and secured inheritance of Barryscourt to be left in the main bloodline of the Barrymore’s, however this was not to be. Barryscourt in now inherited by way of murder by James Fitz Richard Barry roe, Lord of Ibawne, the minor branch of the family.

The Barrys supported the Fitzgeralds of Desmond during the Irish rebellions of the late sixteenth century. To prevent it being captured by Sir Walter Raleigh and his army, the Barrys partially destroyed the Castle.

During the Irish Confederate War of the seventeenth century Barryscourt Castle was once again successfully attacked.  Cannon balls lodged in the wall above the Castle entrance bear witness to this conflict.

Barryscourt Castle has been extensively restored. The Main Hall and Great Hall have been completed and fittings and furnishings reinstated. Within the Castle grounds, the herb and knot garden and the charming orchard have been restored to their original sixteenth century design.

Admission:

• Free admission
• All groups of 10 people or more must be pre-booked.
• Access to the upper chambers of the castle is by guided tour only.
• Maximum tour capacity is 13 people

Opening hours:

• Daily 10am – 6pm
• Last admission 5:15pm

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