Charles Fort
Dún Chathail
A late 17th-century star-shaped fort guarding Kinsale harbour, with views from the ramparts over the port and across to James Fort.
Charles Fort was built around 1678 and named after King Charles II of England. It is one of the best-preserved star-shaped bastion forts in Ireland and was built to protect Kinsale harbour. It came under siege during the Williamite War in 1690, and it continued to serve as a barracks until 1921. It is now managed by the Office of Public Works. Visitors can explore the barrack remains, the ramparts, and a small exhibition, and free guided tours are offered in summer. Admission is about 5 euros, and it is open roughly 10:00 to 18:00 (shorter hours in winter). From Kinsale town, it is about a 40-minute walk along the Scilly Walk, or about a 5-minute drive.
Opening hours
Approx. 10:00–18:00 (shorter in winter)
Nearby sights
- James's Fort
- Kinsale
- Desmond Castle & International Museum of Wine
- Old Head of Kinsale & Lusitania Museum
- University College Cork
- Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral
- Elizabeth Fort
- Fitzgerald's Park