Trim Castle, Meath, Ireland

Trim Castle, the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland, was constructed over a thirty-year period by Hugh de Lacy and his son Walter. Hugh de Lacy was granted the Liberty of Meath by King Henry II in 1172 in an attempt to curb the expansionist policies of Richard de Clare, (Strongbow). Construction of the massive three storied Keep, the central stronghold of the castle, was begun c. 1176 on the site of an earlier wooden fortress. This massive twenty-sided tower, which is cruciform in shape, was protected by a ditch, curtain wall and moat.

Address

Frenchs Lane, Meath, Ireland

See all sites in Meath

Details

Founded: c. 1176
Category: Castles and fortifications in Ireland

More Information

heritageireland.ie
en.wikipedia.org

Rating

4.6/5 (based on Google user reviews)

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User Reviews

Alexander Rakovskiy (2 years ago)
Amazing place. We came there to see the Castle that we've seen in the Braveheart movie, but got much more. Beautiful grounds to have a walk, really nice and big (compared to others I've seen in Ireland) authentic castle. And last but not least - very cool guide Jimmy, who told us lots of details about the castle itself and many breathtaking and funny stories. I highly recommend visiting this place, and definitely visit it again myself.

Susan Henkel (2 years ago)
At one time in history Trim Castle was the largest fortification in Ireland. Buy tickets to see the Keep with a guided tour, we missed out as they were sold out for the 4:45 tour. The grounds are free to visit and there are informational signs. Easy parking nearby and within walking distance of shops.

Sun'J शर्मा (2 years ago)
Nice place, pay parking available and plenty of places nearby to eat. The castle can be covered in 30 mins and the walk around the castle in perhaps another 20 mins There is a guide tour, did not opt for it. As a stand alone trip may not be worth it. Is good for a quick stop.

Morgan Pabst (2 years ago)
My favorite castle in Ireland!! Our first stop and a fantastic place to visit. Easy access and parking, lots of little cafes nearby, and beautiful grounds. Its well maintained and has amazing employees working here! Its free to see the grounds but i recommend taking the tour inside, especially on a windy day. Awesome memories here, i cant wait to return one day. Thank you!!

Nicolas Martinez (3 years ago)
A significant and massive piece of Irish History well worth the visit. A guided tour with the very knowledgeable and witty guide Brenda were very well spent 5 euro. Trim itself is a very charming place and its several church ruins are also worth the walk all the way to the eastern side of the town.

Featured Historic Landmarks, Sites & Buildings

Photo from Flickr, copyright caminanteK

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Château de Foix

The Château de Foix dominates the town of Foix. An important tourist site, it is known as a centre of the Cathars. Built on an older 7th-century fortification, the castle is known from 987. In 1002, it was mentioned in the will of Roger I, Count of Carcassonne, who bequeathed the fortress to his youngest child, Bernard. In effect, the family ruling over the region were installed here which allowed them to control access to the upper Ariège valley and to keep surveillance from this strategic point over the lower land, protected behind impregnable walls.

In 1034, the castle became capital of the County of Foix and played a decisive role in medieval military history. During the two following centuries, the castle was home to Counts with shining personalities who became the soul of the Occitan resistance during the crusade against the Albigensians.

Trim Castle