Bunratty Castle in Ireland is high on the Irish bucket list for visitors and locals alike. The 15th-century restored castle in County Clare, Ireland stands was originally a Viking trading camp in 970. The structure on site today is the last of four castles built.
The Castle
Bunratty Castle is named the most complete and authentic castle in Ireland. A structure has been on this site since 1250 with the Vikings and a defensive fortress. The powerful MacNamara family built the present structure around 1425, but by 1475, it became the stronghold of the O’Briens, the most prominent clan in North Munster.
The Castle interior is home to the country’s finest collection of medieval furniture. It’s a great way to glimpse how the MacNamara and O’Brien families would have lived during the peak of this castle’s existence.
Folk Park
Bunratty Folk Park, set on 26 acres, features over 30 buildings in the village and rural setting. The Folk Park includes a Village Street that duplicates life in 19th Century Ireland, farmhouses, a Walled Garden that was built for the house circa 1804, and Mr. O’Regan’s Cafe.
Also, don’t miss the Bunratty Winery where you can taste mead.
Medieval Banquet
The Bunratty Castle Banquet is one of the most famous events in Ireland. It is a raucous night of medieval revelry and food that takes place over 2 hours and a bit. Now 60 years on the Burnatty Castle Medieval Banquets is considered one of the longest running and prestigious dining experiences in Ireland, and provides unique entertainment and dining experience in the iconic setting of the world famous Bunratty Castle.
