Ballycarbery Castle

Caisleán Bhaile Uí Chairbre

A 16th-century castle ruin near Cahersiveen, draped in ivy and set on a seaside meadow with views of the Atlantic. Very cinematic.

Ballycarbery Castle was built by the MacCarthy family in the 16th century. It was damaged during the Cromwellian wars in 1652 and gradually fell into ruin. Today its walls are covered in ivy, rising from a seaside meadow with the bay and hills behind, making it a highly photogenic spot on the Ring of Kerry. The castle stands on private land and its structure is unstable, so entering the interior is strictly prohibited. Visitors can only admire it from the outside. It can be visited together with Cahergall Stone Fort.

Opening hours

All day (exterior only)

Castle ruins · Photo spots · Sea views

Nearby sights

Cahergall Stone Fort
Valentia Island
Portmagee
Waterville
Kerry Cliffs
Dingle
Derrynane House & Beach
Slea Head Drive

Places to eat nearby

QC's Seafood Restaurant
The Moorings Seafood Restaurant
No. 35 Kenmare
Bricín Restaurant and Boxty House
Cronin's Restaurant
Kitty O'Se's Seafood and Grill