Knappogue Castle County Clare
Step back in time at Knappogue Castle, a 15th-century tower house offering a unique medieval banquet experience with music, dance, and a feast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Banquets are seasonal
Knappogue Castle County Clare
Best Time
Banquets are seasonal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Knappogue Castle, a 15th-century tower house offering a unique medieval banquet experience with music, dance, and a feast.
"Who knew dining in the Middle Ages could be so much fun? You're missing out!"
🎯 Book Banquet Tickets Early
Medieval banquets are seasonal & popular. Book ahead, especially for groups!
🎶 Enjoy the Entertainment
Servers sing, dance, and play music! Embrace the fun and historical immersion.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Medieval Banquet Experience
Step back in time with a lively medieval dinner show featuring costumed servers, music, dancing, and a feast!
Historic Tower House
Explore the 15th-century tower house, a testament to medieval defense with thick walls and narrow windows.
Walled Garden
Wander through the beautifully restored walled garden, offering a peaceful escape and picturesque views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Medieval Feast
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Banquet Tickets Early
Medieval banquets are seasonal & popular. Book ahead, especially for groups!
🎶 Enjoy the Entertainment
Servers sing, dance, and play music! Embrace the fun and historical immersion.
🍷 Wine & Mead Flow
Enjoy wine served in jugs and try some mead upon arrival.
🏰 Explore the Castle
Arrive early for daytime tours to see the historic tower house before dinner.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Banquet Tickets Early
Medieval banquets are seasonal & popular. Book ahead, especially for groups!
🎶 Enjoy the Entertainment
Servers sing, dance, and play music! Embrace the fun and historical immersion.
🍷 Wine & Mead Flow
Enjoy wine served in jugs and try some mead upon arrival.
🏰 Explore the Castle
Arrive early for daytime tours to see the historic tower house before dinner.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the immersive Medieval Banquet at Knappogue Castle, praising the lively entertainment, delicious food, and friendly staff. The historical setting and the engaging performances create a memorable experience. Some note that the banquet is seasonal and recommend booking in advance.
"Just awesome! This is seasonal, I believe this summer only. Performance is awesome. Check out dead carcass in the dungeon. Your servers sing, dance and play music and are super friendly. It's in a real castle so check it out before it turns into a hotel."
eric abramovich
"We're glad we booked this on our bus tour. We had a great night. The small castle was kept in good condition. You'll be greeted with the staff that is dressed in medieval time and a Mead. Wish they have the Mead in the table coz that would have been really nice. They do have red and white wine in jugs. The food was nice. It's a 4 course meal. We love the whole act with singing and dance performance. It's worth the night."
My Higgins (Mimi)
"Knappogue Castle was built in 1467 by Seán Mac Conmara (MacNamara), Italy is a medieval tower house designed for defence. It has thick limestone walls and narrow slit windows to withstand sieges and raids.
We enjoyed the music, storytelling, and a delicious banquet."
Ann Baity
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Knappogue Castle is located in County Clare, Ireland. It's accessible by car, and many visitors arrive as part of guided bus tours. If driving, use GPS coordinates for Quin, County Clare.
Knappogue Castle is in County Clare, which is south-east of Galway. It's a manageable drive from Galway, making it a potential stop on a larger itinerary.
Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring County Clare and its castles. Public transport is available but less frequent.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, especially for the popular medieval banquets. These are seasonal and sell out, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Opening hours can vary, especially as the medieval banquets are seasonal. It's best to check the official Knappogue Castle website for the most up-to-date information on tours and banquet schedules.
Ticket prices vary depending on whether you are attending a guided tour or the medieval banquet. Check the official website for current pricing.
Typically, there's one main ticket for the medieval banquet experience, which includes the meal and entertainment. Group bookings might have specific arrangements.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The show is a highlight, featuring servers in period costumes who sing, dance, and tell stories. It's a lively, four-course meal experience designed to transport you back to medieval times.
A four-course meal is served, often described as hearty and traditional. Wine is provided in jugs, and mead is offered upon arrival.
Absolutely! The banquet includes live music, Irish dancing, and singing performances by the staff, making for a very engaging evening.
Yes, Knappogue Castle is a restored tower house and can be explored via guided tours during its operating hours, allowing you to appreciate its history before the evening's festivities.
Built in 1467 by Seán MacNamara, it's a well-preserved example of a medieval tower house, designed for defense with thick walls and narrow windows.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but always be mindful of other visitors and any specific restrictions during performances.
The castle exterior, the walled garden, and the banquet hall during the performance offer great photo opportunities. Drone shots can capture the castle's setting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During the day, guided tours of the castle can also be interesting for older children who can appreciate the historical aspects. The walled garden provides a nice space for a brief stroll. Remember that the banquet is a seated event, so consider your children's attention spans for the duration of the meal and performance.
🥂 Couples & Romantic Getaways
For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the day for a guided tour. The castle's history and the beauty of the walled garden can provide a charming backdrop for a romantic outing. Knappogue Castle is also a great stop on a scenic drive through County Clare, perhaps combined with a visit to the nearby coast.
🥃 Whiskey Enthusiasts
Although the castle itself doesn't typically offer whiskey tastings as part of its tours or banquets, learning about the castle's history might enhance your appreciation for the whiskey. If you're a fan of Irish spirits, seeking out a bottle of Knappogue Castle Whiskey can be a perfect souvenir or a way to connect with the place after your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Medieval Banquet Experience
The staff play a crucial role, acting as servers, musicians, and performers, creating a warm and interactive atmosphere. This unique blend of history, food, and entertainment makes it a standout attraction in County Clare. Many reviewers highlight the quality of the performances and the friendly nature of the staff.
Planning Tip: Since the banquets are seasonal and highly sought after, it's essential to book your tickets well in advance, especially if you're traveling with a group. Checking the official website for dates and availability is key to securing your spot for this memorable medieval feast.
A Glimpse into History: The Castle Itself
Beyond the banquet, the castle offers guided tours that delve into its rich history. You can explore the various rooms and learn about the lives of those who inhabited it centuries ago. The castle's structure itself is a fascinating piece of medieval Irish architecture, offering a tangible connection to the past.
Don't Miss: While the banquet is a major draw, take time to appreciate the castle's historical significance. The dungeon, mentioned in one review, offers a stark reminder of the castle's defensive past.
Beyond the Castle Walls: County Clare
Nearby attractions include the iconic Cliffs of Moher, the traditional music hub of Doolin, and the unique karst landscape of the Burren. Exploring these sites can complement your visit to Knappogue Castle, providing a broader understanding of the region's appeal.
Traveler Tip: Many visitors combine a trip to Knappogue Castle with other sights in County Clare, making it part of a larger road trip through the west of Ireland. Consider renting a car for the best experience exploring the diverse landscapes and historical sites.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit