Who owns Ballinalacken Castle?
Who owns Ballinalacken Castle? – Ballinalacken Castle is owned by Declan and Cecilia O’Callaghan, two members of the O’Callaghan family that have been living in the castle for three generations. The couple uses their experience and passion to create a unique atmosphere in Ballinalacken Castle Hotel, providing guests with an unforgettable experience when they visit.
The castle itself is steeped in history and local legends, giving guests a true insight into Irish culture. The O’Callaghans are proud of their heritage and take every opportunity to share it with visitors, through stories and activities. Ballinalacken Castle is sure to provide an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
History of Ballinalacken Castle
Ballinalacken Castle is a prominent tower house located in County Clare, Ireland. It is believed that an earlier fortification may have been found at this site, however no traces of it remain today. According to records, the castle was constructed by Lochlan MacCon O’Connor in the late fourteenth century.
The current tower house is thought to have been constructed over a prolonged period, with the oldest part being the tall eastern tower which dates back to the fifteenth century. Later on, in 1564 and 1584/5, Sir Turlough O’Brien ceded the castle to himself.
Following the 1641 Rebellion and subsequent Cromwellian reorganization, Turlough’s son Daniel petitioned the English Commission in 1654 to save the house from demolition. It is believed that either Daniel or his son Teigue was responsible for constructing the expansion at Ballinalacken.
The castle passed through generations of the O’Brien family until it eventually went to another branch of the family in the middle of the eighteenth century. Descendants of Turlough Don, who died in 1528, and Sir Donald O’Brien of Dough Castle (Lahinch) who died in 1579 are said to have lived at Ballinalacken Castle.
In 1837, its owner was planning to repair it, and in the 1840s, a bow fronted bungalow-type hotel was built on the site. This home belonged to Lord O’Brien and was likely constructed by John O’Brien MP (died 1855), eldest son of James and Margaret O’Brien. Features such as a marble fireplace carved from one single slab, original stained-glass windows, and an O’Brien stone crest are still in evidence. In 1938 the residence became a guest house.
Ballinalacken Castle is a significant reminder of County Clare’s history and its links to one of Ireland’s most powerful families. Although much of it has been renovated over the years, it still retains its impressive historical charm.
In conclusion, Ballinalacken Castle is a prominent tower house located in County Clare, Ireland. It was built by Lochlan MacCon O’Connor in the late fourteenth century and was passed through generations of the O’Brien family until it eventually went to another branch of the family in the middle of the eighteenth century. In 1837, its owner was planning to repair it and in 1938 it became a guesthouse. It features impressive historical charm with marble fireplaces, stained-glass windows, and an O’Brien stone crest. Today Ballinalacken Castle remains a significant reminder of County Clare’s history and its links to one of Ireland’s most powerful families.
How to get to Ballinalacken Castle
Located on the western coast of Ireland in the town of Lisdoonvarna, Ballinalacken Castle is a stunning example of medieval Irish architecture. To get to this beautiful location, you can either drive or take public transport from nearby cities like Ennis and Galway.
If you are driving from Ennis, follow the N18 and then join the N67 to Lisdoonvarna. Once you arrive in town, follow the signs to Ballinalacken Castle. The drive should take around 40 minutes.
Alternatively, if you are coming from Galway, take the N18 south until you reach the N67. Follow this road until you get to Lisdoonvarna and then look for the signs to Ballinalacken Castle. This journey should take around an hour and a half.
Public transport is also available from Ennis and Galway, with Bus Eireann operating daily services between the two cities. From Ennis, you can take Bus No. 975, and from Galway, you can take Bus No. 976. Both services will take you to Lisdoonvarna, with a journey time of between 1-2 hours depending on traffic. Once in Lisdoonvarna, follow the signs to Ballinalacken Castle.
No matter how you decide to get there, a trip to Ballinalacken Castle is sure to be an unforgettable experience! With its stunning architecture and idyllic location, it’s no wonder that this castle has been attracting visitors from all over the world for centuries. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!
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