Explore the world-famous landmark in County Cork that's home to the legendary Stone of Eloquence.
Welcome to the home of the Blarney Stone, a 600-year-old castle built by one of Ireland’s most powerful ever chieftains, Cormac MacCarthy. Uncover the dungeon, the banqueting hall, the chapel and more inside the imposing fortress, before climbing to the top of the tower for a date with the Blarney Stone. Legends of the stone’s origin vary, from the Crusades to the Queen of the Fairies in south Munster. Kiss it, and it’s believed you grow more eloquent. There’s only one way to find out…
Blarney Castle and Gardens, County Cork
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Beauty in bloom
Castle and mythical stone aside, Blarney Gardens are something of an unexpected gem here, which delight visitors with a rich range of arboretums, avenues and more. There are upwards of 10 different sections of the gardens, from the Poison Garden to the Vietnamese Woodland. Don’t miss the Seven Sisters, a collection of ancient standing stones, while the Great Trees area is home to some of the biggest specimens of their kind in Ireland.
Cobh, County Cork
Blarney Castle is only a 20-minute drive from Cork city, where an array of things to see and do await. Dine at the 18th-century English Market, get spooked at the gothic Cork City Gaol, and climb the 132 steps to the top of the iconic Shandon Tower for sweeping views of this charming city. Just a little further out is the colourful seaside town of Cobh, Titanic’s last port of call before its ill-fated maiden voyage across the Atlantic. Uncover the full story at the Titanic Experience Cobh.