Go to My Ireland
logo-mini

Are you sure you want to sure you want to leave the feed?

Leave

Oops... something went wrong!

My Ireland

Looking for inspiration? Planning a trip? Or just want to scroll yourself happy? We'll show you an Ireland that's tailor-made for you.

  • #Landscapes
  • #CultureandHeritage
  • #OutdoorActivities
  • #Landmarks

Oops, no internet connection

While offline, you can still add items to ‘My Board’. New travel reccomendations will only show up once you’re back online.

    See what Ireland has in store for you

    Oops, no internet connection

    While offline, you can still add items to ‘My Board’. New travel reccomendations will only show up once you’re back online.

    My Board

    Items without a physical location are not shown in map view.

    Looks like your board is empty

    Look out for the little heart icon around Ireland.com, simply tap the icon to start adding items to your board!

    Board settings

    Collection cover image

    Visible to people you share your board with

    No image

    Huntington Castle

    From its medieval origins to its enchanting gardens, Huntington Castle is a County Carlow highlight that is well worth seeking out
    • #IrelandsAncientEast
    • #Landmarks
    County Carlow
    Culture and heritage
    1 hr 25 mins from Dublin Airport

    Huntington is the kind of place that sets your imagination on fire with its rich tapestry of culture, mysticism and history.

    Walking into the courtyard here, don’t be surprised if you’re greeted by the iridescent plumage of a peacock’s tail in full fan. This is not your run-of-the-mill Irish castle – it’s eccentric, unique and utterly charming. Set within an idyllic location in the tiny riverside village of Clonegal, County Carlow, Huntington was built in 1625 as a garrison and is now privately owned by the descendants of the original family. A tour of the interior will bring you to the beautiful tapestry room, the elegant conservatory draped with grape vines and the Temple of the Goddess Isis – a truly beguiling and unusual basement temple from the 1970s.

    In the gardens outside, you’ll find an Italian parterre and a yew walk, but one of the most attractive parts of the estate is the water gardens, which were laid out in the 1680s and feature a pond and lake. Take your time here and slow down to enjoy the graceful layout and delicate scents… It’s a delightful space. And if you feel like Huntington has stolen a piece of your heart and you don’t want to leave, then don’t… The castle offers luxury B&B accommodation in the castle rooms, with four-poster beds, original fireplaces and garden views.

    Yew Tree Walk, Huntington Castle, County Carlow

    Need to know

    1

    Castle Tours are available year-round. However, there are no tours if there is a wedding in the castle, so check ahead to avoid disappointment.


    2

    There is a 17th century tea room and gift shop available at Huntington.

    3

    There is a woodland playground on the estate grounds.

    Things to see and do nearby

    Altamont Gardens

    The Altamont Gardens, regarded as the jewel in Ireland’s gardening crown, lie in County Carlow. The romantic 16-hectare estate, not far from Tullow, features a mix of native and exotic plants and makes a great destination for a family outing.

    Carlow

    View details

    Attraction

    Sha-Roe Bistro

    Carlow

    View details

    Attraction

    Borris House

    A beautiful and historic Irish country house, Borris House is located in some of the most spectacular scenery Ireland has to offer. Known as a jewel in the crown of Carlow, it is popular Irish attraction both locally and across the country.

    Carlow

    View details

    Attraction

    Go with the Flow River Adventures

    Go with the Flow River Adventures offer guided river treks, multi-day trips, canoe hire, courses and much more.

    Carlow

    View details

    Attraction

    Carlow County Museum

    Carlow County Museum in the centre of Carlow Town's Cultural Quarter, is a popular tourist attraction and local resource for anyone interested in Carlow's fascinating past. Discover the history and heritage of the area through their range of displays and exhibitions.

    Carlow

    View details

    Attraction

    Delta Sensory Gardens

    Delta Sensory Gardens, in County Carlow, offer visitors a special opportunity to rest and indulge their senses of touch, taste, smell, hearing and visual delight. You will find it just outside Carlow Town off the Athy Road Roundabout in Strawhall Estate.

    Carlow

    View details

    Attraction

    Blackstairs Eco Trails

    Carlow

    View details

    Attraction

    Huntington Castle and Gardens

    Visit Huntington Castle in County Carlow, a 1625 garrison on the historically important Wexford to Dublin route. Check out the beautiful gardens, guided tours and family events at this 17th-century house.

    Carlow

    View details

    Attraction

    Kilbrannish Loop

    Kilbrannish loop is one of two National Loops in Kilbrannish Woods, (also refer to Trailhead 90a Windfarm loop) which also accommodates part of the long-distance South Leinster follow the purple (and green) arrows out the back of the car park and uphill

    Carlow

    View details

    Attraction