Rock of Cashel image

Rock of Cashel

Tourist attraction Historical landmark Historic site

One of the Best Places To Visits in Cashel


Address

St. Patricksrock, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland

Website

www.heritageireland.ie

Contact

+353 62 61437

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (13.5K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: 9 am to 4:45 pm
  • Tuesday: 9 am to 4:45 pm
  • Wednesday: 9 am to 4:45 pm
  • Thursday: 9 am to 4:45 pm
  • Friday: 9 am to 4:45 pm
  • Saturday: 9 am to 4:45 pm
  • Sunday: 9 am to 4:45 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: visit (30) history (29) tour (28) Cashel (19) beautiful (19) hill (16) castle (16) worth (16) views (15) Rock (15)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Dessie H. 1 year ago on Google
    Phenomenal! It is one of the ruins that we enjoyed most! It is on a hill and the parking is at the foot of the hill. A short wait for the tickets (€8) and you are in! I would recommend the tour as the guide walks you through and tells the story of this grand structure. The old wall scripts are protected but visible to the public. It is amazing how much is preserved for us to see and enjoy. Definitely take your time and walk around. There is another ruin down the hill which is also amazing to visit. You can take the short cut through the grass field or you can take the paved walk around the Cashel grounds. Recommend both! Great site!
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Samuel L. 2 years ago on Google
    A iconic cathedral on the hill between Dublin and Cork, elevated at height and rich in history. If this did not sufficiently tempt you, how about free entrance and some really knowledgeable tour guides? The lovely guide we had today clearly knew her stuff and we left with so much more facts about the castle and specially the choices and reasons of the materials. Thank you everyone who worked there tirelessly, rain (99%) or shine, to give us a real taste of some Irish past.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Robyn 11 months ago on Google
    Interesting place to stop by. The real attraction isn't the ruins but the sweeping vistas all around. It did rain while we were there, but waiting it out proved to be a huge boon as the skies cleared up for magnificent photo taking opportunities.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 EJB 3. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful site that is well worth the price of admission. We bought tickets in advance online but there was no line and we were able to enter without waiting and it wasn’t too crowded (on a Monday morning). There is a car park with ample spaces that charges a small fee. There’s also a couple of shops next door if you would like a souvenir.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jerry S. 7 months ago on Google
    Outstanding remains of medieval buildings and cathedral. Do get a picture from the road as you approach the town of Cashel. In town, easiest way up is by the Bishop’s Path for an easier climb. The structures are beautiful. And the views of the surrounding countryside are splendid from this vantage point. Make the Rock of Cashel a stop on your way across Ireland.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jonathan C. 1 year ago on Google
    Went in late September, it was beautiful and very fascinating. Chapel tour was the highlight, it’s very ornate inside and has a rich history. Favorite castle in Ireland because of its historical significance and impressive architecture.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Gabrielle T. 4 months ago on Google • 273 reviews
    It was a cool place to visit though we did not do any guided tours so we only spent about an hour exploring here. The Rock of Cashel itself, while impressive, is not very big so you could easily see the sights with a quick stop!

  • 5/5 Aurora B. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the most important and well preserved Ireland's site! A journey into the past you'll never forget! The entrance ticket is free of charge until December 2021!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Igor A. 8 months ago on Google
    The Rock of Cashel Castle impresses with its distinct personality, evoking a bit of the Edinburgh Castle's charm. Despite having no roof, it invites exploration with its intimate corners both inside and out. You'll find picturesque spots throughout, including a stunning view from the nearby street, framing the castle against a backdrop of a quaint mountain. Small yet majestic, it’s a delightful stop for castle enthusiasts. *During our visit, there was a funeral taking place in the cemetery located at the back of the castle, which brought a somber tone to the visit. While it was not a pleasant experience for tourists, it serves as a reminder of the castle's deep-rooted history and its continuing role in the local community's life.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jason W. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the largest castles in Ireland, so can't be missed. As such, it can be a bit busy so expect a crowd. The hill walking up is a bit steep, so keep mindful for seniors or physically challenged folks. But once you're up, it is amazing to see an 800yr old castle - and one of the best parts are the views out to the countryside. You will not be disappointed!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lisa V. 11 months ago on Google
    A perfect halfway point between Dublin and Blarney Castle. Easily could spend an hour walking around the property and taking in all the views. They have a guided tour option if you have a little more time but you can very easily walk around yourself if you’re limited on time.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 John B. 2 years ago on Google
    Interesting historical site, very picturesque with lovely scenic views. There is a guided tour available and paid parking nearby. Definitely worth a visit.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dave M. 7 months ago on Google • 22 reviews
    Impressive fortress and amazing views onto the Irish countryside. You can feel the importance of that location, and almost feel the presence of the people who used to live and died there over the centuries as you walk past their final resting place in such a beautiful location, set atop of a large granite outcrop among the rolling hills of Ireland.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Megan H. 6 months ago on Google • 11 reviews
    A must see for one and all - The Rock Of Cashel is truly a site to see and experience. The tour is excellent. The staff are so passionate and helpful. The chapel tour is also a must see. So much history and lots to learn. The views from the castle grounds are amazing you can see for miles. The grounds are truly beautiful and worth a walk around after and a stroll into Cashel town.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Rosemary 2 years ago on Google
    A good walk but you can't get inside the chapel. Th views are amazing.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daniel L. 2 years ago on Google
    Great to be able to see this up close. We had an amazing sunny day which made the experience very pleasant. But probably on an overcast day or even a rainy one would make this experience creepier and still feel amazing. Recommend walking the grounds and even going to the abbey at the bottom of the hill where it was deserted and really cool to see too. That part is free if you just wish to go there.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ursula G. 3 months ago on Google • 88 reviews New
    Lovely place! Impressive tower with a great view from the outside. Too bad we're not able to see the inside view. This closes at 15:45. We'll come back soon

  • 5/5 Brian C. 1 year ago on Google
    After having lived near it for so long, was only after I immigrated and returned for a holiday when I visited it for the first time with my partner, and was both intrigued and proud hearing the detailed history from the lovely tour guide Patrick. He had a wealth of information and patiently answered all our questions, even offering to take photos of us. Can't recommend it enough, for both locals and tourists.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Martina D. 2 years ago on Google
    A wonderful stop and if the weather is beautiful it’s a great photo stop! History is amazing and well worth the trip. Your does not take as long as other cathedrals as it is ruins.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Dr. W. S. 10 months ago on Google
    This is a must see location when in Ireland. The place is full of history and very famous. Try to avoid the bus tours flooding the place in the morning. Enjoy the majestic ruins, the Celtic Crosses of the graveyard and the view from the hill where it is built.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daniela M. 10 months ago on Google
    Book the tour with chapel, you won't regret it. Our guide, Johnny Cash, had us learn about the building and its history all the while being entertained and awed. If you visit no other historic building, this one is a must and you'll know much about Ireland's past afterwards.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Juandré S. 2 years ago on Google
    What an incredible experience. Having to pay for entrance is welcomed as it ensures maintenance and cleaning is top class. An incredible experience which can take the imagination straight to life in centuries past. Incredibly scenic surrounds frame the pictures beautifully. P.S. Student discount available with provision of a Student ID
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dana S. 8 months ago on Google
    Very cool place to visit. The castle itself is very old and crumbling so you’re more seeing the outside stone structure but it’s very cool to see. Great for photos. There are some exhibits in the building inside. If you want to go into the chapel, you’ll have to go with a guided tour - you can’t buy those tickets only but they’re 3€ additional at the door
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 M L. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful spot to visit if You are interested in history of Ireland. You will have nice walk around and inside of castle, wher You can find some graves/tombs with lovely engraving. Unfortunately there is one thing which I didn't like about it ... Cormack's chapel is closed for visitors, You can only visit it if You are part of guided tour, which in my opinion is bit unfair. Anyway I would recommend to visit this place.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Remi F. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing construction on top of the hill above Cashel town! Fee is a bit high (8€) for only a few explanation, but the site is really well cared ! Worth the visit
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mary C. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing place. Fortunately we had a very knowledge guide. It's all free Good size car park as well If you can hug St Patrick's Cross you never need to see a dentist again.❤
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anna S. 2 years ago on Google
    Great heritage of Ireland. Very dramatic and atmoshere place. When you being here, you might lost count in time. Amazing architecture, interesting legends and various symbols are everywhere here.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 James G. 2 years ago on Google
    Still stands out from the crowd as one of the best historic ruins to visit. It's spectacular hillside spot, and the range of ruins really makes it. We had a great and knowledgeable guide today; learned so much. It's always much colder up there than in the town or carparks, so dress up warm. There is nowhere sheltered from the swirling wind it seems
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marcin W. 2 years ago on Google
    Stunning place with rich history. Anyone with interest in stories and architecture should visit this gem. If you can book a trip with a guide it is worth your time and you will not regret it. Highly recommended.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 AM W. 2 years ago on Google
    Please visit the Rock of Cashel. I promise you will not be disappointed. We happened to visit on a beautiful day and could see for miles. Such an impressive site. We had a nice lunch in one of the restaurants in the town. Be sure to visit St Mary's Abbey just down the road from the Rock of Cashel.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Corbett F. 2 years ago on Google
    Stunning ruins! I am a lover of history and medieval architecture so this was right up my alley. Make sure you take your time & ask about the history from the team there - you will not be disappointed. Beautiful views, stunning ruins and beautiful Celtic art.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Phantom 848 (. 2 years ago on Google
    No matter what I say it won't do this place justice...it's a pity the motorway is built in such a way you can't see this place. If visiting Ireland it's a must see.... definitely will be back
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Erin M. 4 months ago on Google • 51 reviews
    I had a fabulous visit here last year June 2023. The only down fall was the walk up a steep hill to get there. So a warning to all not in good shape or if you have mobility issues. The views were spectacular and worth the heart attack walk lol. I loved all the history and just knowing I was standing in a place so ancient was very special for me! If you visit Ireland this is a must see destination!!

  • 5/5 Ellen G. 3 months ago on Google • 40 reviews New
    AMAZING! i am a huge history fan and this was such fun. it is in a beautiful location and is an incredible glimpse into the past. tickets were fairly priced and there was also a cute gift shop down the hill. so glad i made a point of visiting here on my trip to ireland 🇮🇪

  • 5/5 Alex U. 3 months ago on Google • 19 reviews New
    It is situated on the top of the hill with nice views all around. Pity only ruins are left and the state never rebuilds the castle. However it's a part of history. You can get tickets at the door. The toilet is closer to a car park so a bit of walking. The nearest shop (souvenir) is small and poorly enough

  • 5/5 Raj K. 6 months ago on Google
    🏰⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Rock of Cashel is an absolute marvel, steeped in history and majesty. The towering medieval structures against the backdrop of the Irish countryside create an awe-inspiring view. The guided tours are incredibly informative, delving into the rich tales and legends that echo through these ancient ruins. While it can get quite busy, the site's grandeur and historical significance make it an absolute must-visit. An enchanting journey into Ireland's past!

  • 5/5 Marcus 8 months ago on Google
    Beeindruckend, aber ich finde es von unten fast noch beeindruckender als von oben bzw innerhalb des Schlosses. Man kann nach dem Eintritt selbstständig herumlaufen, es gibt aber auch eine Guides Tour. Ausschließlich mit der Tour kommt man in die Kapelle. Diese ist aber nicht soooo beeindruckend. Ist aus Sandstein. Der Hintergrund ist, dass zum Erhalt der Kapelle die Anzahl der Besucher auf 50/h limitiert ist.

  • 5/5 Kay C. 1 year ago on Google
    A very nice stop! Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly (Gef?). The site is beautiful and well worth an hour or so of your time. They have bathrooms outside at the bottom of the hill near a small gift shop. I really enjoyed out tour. It was very windy. I recommend a beanie and a light sweater. Our day was overcast and it was still lovely. I would not say that it is wheelchair friendly as it is ruins and uneven ground.

  • 5/5 Marleen L. 8 months ago on Google
    We are so glad we decided to visit the Rock. Lots of history and amazing old buildings/Graves. A really informative short video tells you more about that period. May we never forget the history of the world as those before us sacrificed so much and prepared the world for us to live in. Entrance tickets were also very reasonable (20€ per family) compared to some of the other places we visited which wasn't nearly as impressive and picturous as The Rock of Cashel. The views from there are also very pretty: green pastures with cows. Really pretty. The we walked down and ate a hearty vegetable soup and scone with jam&cream at Granny's Kitchen near the parking lot.

  • 5/5 Lea H. 2 years ago on Google
    Take a trip to the Rock of Cashel at night, it's beautiful. (And explore it during the day)

  • 5/5 Jordy C. 7 months ago on Google
    I joined a guided tour and paid the extra €3 for entry to the chapel. The tour was incredibly informative and definitely worth taking the time to do, as I came away with a much greater understanding of the history of the building. The chapel frescoes are beautiful - at least what remains of them. I’m happy to spend the entrance fee knowing that it is being used to conserve and protect this amazing site.

  • 5/5 Allen W. 7 months ago on Google
    This is the last place we visited on our trip to Ireland, and the staff here amazed us on the lengths they went to make it wheelchair accessible for my wife. They put down aluminum ramps so that she could get to most of the areas, and it made for such a great experience for her, and all the rest of us. They allowed us to drive all the way up to the top, given that the road up is fairly steep. Definitely a must see!

  • 5/5 Keenan 7 months ago on Google
    Very friendly staff. I highly recommend the guided tour and the optional church entrance fee ($3 euro extra). The guided tour lasted an hour and we walked around the whole upper area with in depth details about each part. Our guide was Seamus who was fantastic. There’s 10km or so of walking paths in the area that include the Rock of Cashel. We weren’t able to walk them due to weather but if you can that seems like another fun activity. Highly recommend for any in the area.

  • 5/5 Laura D. 2 years ago on Google
    Awesome site and guided tour.

  • 5/5 Joy B. 2 years ago on Google
    Very beautiful. It is actually an old church, not a castle. It's now a burial ground

  • 5/5 Alexander Mecca (. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a wonderful place to visit for a short bit. Not a lot here to make a few hour visit though. This place feels spiritual. We recommend stopping by :)

  • 5/5 The WWII P. 5 months ago on Google
    It was closed due to high winds, yet still impressive. The legend of St. Patrick and the devil adds a wee bit of mystique to the aura of the castle.

  • 4/5 Nee Shen H. 5 months ago on Google
    Stopped on the way to Cork. Parking is €4.50 per day on site but there is a slight hike up to the location. Managed by OPW so there's an entrance fee or free with the heritage card. There is a multimedia show at certain times, I did not find it educational for the the visit. The place is small and can be covered in half an hour. Don't get me wrong, it does offer good photo ops.

  • 5/5 B E. 5 months ago on Google
    The Rock of Cashel must’ve been the inspiration for the Monty python scene in “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.” The history that happened in the rock a casual, and the architecture from the different centuries of construction is absolutely amazing. The view from the top of the hill looking out over the Irish countryside into the surrounding villages is also breathtaking.

  • 5/5 badri n. 2 years ago on Google
    It's a very convenient location to get to. It is just of M8 at cashel. Plenty of a good history to learn about the OPW tour guide was very informative and cheerful. Can't believe that 935 people were killed within this building a few hundred years ago. Every one trying to defend this place. The Bishop that won occupied this Castle owned 38,000 acres.

  • 5/5 Eugene D. 4 months ago on Google • 7 reviews
    Wonderful historical site. Definitely a must see if you’re in the region. Recommend taking the guided tour to get a better experience and understanding of the history behind the buildings.

  • 5/5 denis w. 2 years ago on Google
    Fantastic architecture, beautiful countryside steeped in history.

  • 5/5 Christopher H. 9 months ago on Google
    A totally magical place. This fortress surrounded by greenery is very reminiscent of television series such as Outlander, Game of Thrones or Harry Potter. Magical atmosphere, the cemetery on the back overlooking the hills is also very beautiful.

  • 4/5 Agustin Ignacio R. 2 years ago on Google
    Really good place to visit! I went on Sunday, there were just a few people so I had the chance to take good pictures. Free ticket 🤙

  • 5/5 Elser L. 2 years ago on Google
    A really wonderful place. It is a breathtaking building and view. The scenery is beautiful. Visiting it when it’s sunny, rainy, morning or afternoon is equally astonishing.

  • 5/5 Paul G. 1 year ago on Google
    Really impressive place with panoramic views. Really interesting history, the tour guide was very detailed. There is also a film in the restored choir. We'll worth looking it up yourself on the Web for further details.

  • 5/5 Karolina M. 1 year ago on Google
    Very scenic as well as historically and architecturally rich place. Well worth the extra few euro per person for the chapel tour, kids under 12 came in for free. The views from the hill on a good weather are stunning.

  • 5/5 Peter P. 1 year ago on Google
    Small but beautiful place. I advise to do some research about the history and facts online before the visit. And then just admire and enjoy the surroundings ☀️

  • 5/5 Stephanie G. 9 months ago on Google
    This didn't disappoint. We didn't do a tour or anything we just walked around ourselves. But the grounds were breathtaking and it wasn't that busy during the week. We were blessed with good weather and I was so glad we did this stop

  • 5/5 S. D. 2 years ago on Google
    Fantastic ruins. Spectacular Cathedral. Must have been wonderfully decorated when still in use. A very special place.

  • 5/5 Alan S. 9 months ago on Google
    Lovely walks around the cathedral, steeped in history, the audio room is great to learn about the cathedral and surrounding area. Kids also go free. After pop down to granny’s kitchen for a cuppa tea and a slice of cake.

  • 4/5 Iqbal K. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful, could have done a bit more preservation

  • 5/5 Kate T. 8 months ago on Google
    Pictures simply cannot do this place justice. Definitely recommend going to if you’re in the area. We ended up getting our tickets in advance just be safe. There was plenty of parking in the lot and the walk up the hill wasn’t too bad. Once we got there we paid for the tour so we could go inside Cormac’s Chapel which is a must see if there! We walked around the grounds before taking the guided tour and it was so amazing to learn the history of the land and buildings there.

  • 5/5 Marcia D. 9 months ago on Google
    Beautiful place, a lot of history on every corner of the buildings. Nice view of the town and surroundings. Really worth the visit.

  • 5/5 Peter M. 9 months ago on Google
    A great stop. If you visit, be sure to take the guided tour. The guides have so much knowledge to share and with our guide John with great humour. The extra 3 euro for Cormac's Chapel is well worth it.

  • 5/5 Joseph L. 9 months ago on Google
    Amazing views & history of town and how the "Rock of Cashel" came to be. Our tour guide was fantastic. A young man - didn't capture his name unfortunately - extremely helpful and informative. Even taught us a bit about curling and showed us the equipment they use! Must stop for all who visit Cashel! Just be aware that if you choose to walk up it is a fairly steep climb. Only 10 mins or so but may be exhausting and/or difficult for some people. Better to take a car up in that case. Highly recommended! Don't miss it!

  • 5/5 kieran K. 9 months ago on Google
    Beautiful attraction with fantastic views inside and out. The structure itself is massive and with the various outer buildings and boundary walls it is very imposing. Take your time and soak in the history. Not expensive and well worth a visit. Town surrounded it has also got some very interesting buildings and some great pubs and restaurants to fill the gap of the walk on the Rock.

  • 5/5 Dyanna V. 10 months ago on Google
    One of our favorite stops in Ireland. It's incredible that you can just walk among the ruins and tombstones. As an American, I was in awe that something so imposing and ancient was sitting in people's backyards. I loved reading the inscriptions on the tombstones and sitting inside the walls. It's an awe-inspiring experience and reminds you of how quickly time passes.

  • 5/5 SheSings 10 months ago on Google
    It was such a wonderful experience! It is truly a wonderful place if you want to explore Irish culture. The tour guides really know everything there is to know about the place and the tours don't take too long. The castle is breath taking and definitely worth the trip!

  • 5/5 Subhalakshmi D. 2 years ago on Google
    Oh what a beautiful castle! When you enter the town by road, you can see the castle from far and it looks amazing. The castle looks unreal. Another one of Ireland's gem for sure.

  • 5/5 Jeff C. 8 months ago on Google
    We visited Cashel Rock while on vacation in Ireland. Such a beautiful and historic place, well worth a visit if you are in the area. We did the self guided tour and were able to see most everything. We lucked out with the weather, and it was a beautiful sunny day. You can pay a bit more and visit the chapel as well. Note, there is a little video to start that is worth watching when you first get there.

  • 5/5 Max A. 2 years ago on Google
    Amazing old cathedral on a hill. The view from far away, when u first see the rock of Cashel, is as impressive as the closer look. Around the cathedral are many graves. The entrance was free of charge but it is recommended to book online in advance.


Call +353 62 61437 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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