About
Dramatically sited on the cliff edge, some two hundred feet above the River Blackwater, in the grounds of Benburb Priory, Benburb Castle is one of Northern Ireland's most treasured landmarks, and a living piece of Northern Ireland's cultural heritage. Originally built by Shane O'Neill 'The Proud' and converted in 1611 by Sir Richard Wingfield, Benburb Castle has a long and fascinating history that spans back several centuries. Its position along the banks of the River Blackwater, for example, made it a key location during the 1646 Battle of Benburb, where the Irish confederate forces, won victory over British forces.
Now home to colonies of bats and Irish black bees, the Castle has been scheduled under the Ancient Monuments (NI) Act 1926. Both the Castle and the cottage contained within its walls, have been the subject of ongoing restoration and preservation efforts to safeguard their historical and architectural significance for future generations.
Today, pre-arranged guided tours of the Castle are available, offering an engaging and informative exploration of its history and charming architectural features. The Library and Museum including its Exhibition, also covers the development of the Priory estate (formerly Wingfield/Powerscourt estate), including its brief role as a field hospital in World War II, and the significance of the Blackwater valley in the economic, social, and cultural development of the region over the centuries.
Guide Prices
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Ticket | Free |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
