Mediaeval magic awaits as Limerick castle gates open to all for one day only

SAVE the date for the Glin Castle and Gardens open day this August, as the castle gates open for one day only. 

On Sunday, August 25, the public are invited to attend a guided tour of the castle grounds and gardens in this one day annual fundraiser.

Ancestral home of Catherine FitzGerald, who is married to Hollywood actor Dominic West, Glin Castle has a rich history and remains to this day as the couple’s home. 

Rooms in the castle are available to rent on a private and exclusive basis but it is generally closed to members of the public.

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The annual open day on August 25 is in aid of Glin Development, a local community group. A spokesperson said on their behalf: “Catherine FitzGerald generously allows the members of Glin Development to host this open day as a fundraiser, once a year.  

“We would like to thank her for her support, generosity and community spirit. The castle is now used for private hire only, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to visit the castle and enjoy the splendour, ambiance and amazing history of the Knights of Glin.”  

The property has been in the family of the Knights of Glin since the early 13th century. The FitzGeralds descend from the Norman Maurice FitzGerald. 

Thomas FitzGerald was granted land in county Limerick and built his first Norman castle around 1200. The family has been in west Limerick ever since.

Local guides will bring members of the public through the ground floor rooms and halls of the castle on the open day, while gardening experts will be on hand to guide visitors through the lawns and walled kitchen garden. 

There will also be a raffle, a coffee truck with sweet treats, as well as an ice cream van on the day.

Gates open at 12pm and admission is €10, which can be purchased at the gate.