Ross Castle

Ross Castle is commonly included on organized jaunting car (pony and trap), hiking, and sightseeing tours around Killarney National Park. Kayak and boat tours, which meander through the Lakes of Killarney—often traveling between Ross Castle and the Gearhameen River near the Gap of Dunloe—regularly stop here too.

You can also tailor private Ring of Kerry day tours, departing from destinations all around the Iveragh Peninsula, to include a photo stop at Ross Castle. While you can view Ross Castle from the outside at any time and explore the surrounding grounds at will, access to the property is by guided tour only. Tours last 40 minutes; purchase tickets at the castle site.

• With lakes, greenery, and mountain peaks surrounding it in all directions, Ross Castle is one of Killarney National Park’s finest photo opportunities.

• Ross Castle is not well-suited to visitors with mobility impairments. Many parts are difficult if not impossible to access because of steep inclines.

• Tours are limited to a maximum of 15 people; arrive early to ensure a spot.

Ross Castle is just a 6-minute drive from Killarney town. From the N71, take the Ross Road turnoff and follow the road down to the Ross Castle parking lot. From April through October, shuttle buses depart from the Killarney Discover Ireland Centre on Beech Road and stop at Ross Castle.

Ross Castle is open from March through November, with several guided tours taking place daily during this time. The castle is a very popular site within the park, and it can become crowded, especially during July and August. Arrive early in the day if you plan on doing a tour.

Ross Castle is just one of Killarney National Park’s many offerings. The park also encompasses the Victorian-era Muckross House and Gardens; Muckross Abbey, a ruined Franciscan friary; and the Gap of Dunloe, a scenic mountain pass bordered by lakes and peaks. In Lough Leane, right next to Ross Castle, is Innisfallen Island, where you can check out the ruins of an abbey and a free-roaming herd of deer.

Plan on at least 45 minutes to explore Ross Castle. This historic landmark in Killarney National Park isn’t huge and can be seen in under an hour. However, some visitors choose to relax and admire the quintessentially Irish views of the lake and scenery before departing.

Yes, Ross Castle is definitely worth a visit. This 15th-century tower on the edge of Lough Leane in Killarney National Park is one of County Kerry’s top historic landmarks. Plan on about 45 minutes for a visit to explore this popular Irish site and admire lake views.

Yes, you can definitely park at Ross Castle. Many people arrive at this 15th-century tower on the shores of Lough Leane in Killarney National Park by their own car and utilize the on-site parking. Parking is free for both cars and buses. Guided tours offer another way to reach this landmark.

Yes, Ross Castle does have toilets that are free and open to the public. This historic tower on the shores of Lough Leane also offers free parking and has a seasonal coffee shop for snacks and refreshments. Ross Castle is a popular site to visit in Killarney National Park.

July and August are the most popular time of year to visit Ireland and County Kerry, especially for international travelers and families. To avoid the crowds, choose a spring or fall visit instead. June and September are great months to explore the Irish countryside.

Yes, you can go inside Ross Castle in Killarney National Park by guided tour only. No reservations are necessary, and tours are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. Tours are kept small, with a maximum of 15 people for exploring the interior of historic Ross Castle.