Clonony Castle, County Offaly

Clonony Castle
CLONONY CASTLE is a truly Tudor castle in Ireland. Built around 1500 by the MacCoughlan clan, it was ceded to Henry VIII by Jon Og MacCoghlan, then given to Thomas Boleyn when Henry wanted to marry his daughter Ann, making him Earl of Ormond. Mary and Elizabeth Boleyn, cousins to Queen Elizabeth I, lived out their lives in this castle and their tombstone still stands on the castle lawn under a spreading hawthorn tree

This majestic tower soars fifty feet in the air, surrounded by two bawn walls, lovely gardens and a moat. Picnic areas (picnics included) are nestled in secluded settings and the banquet hall and tea room are available by reservation. Overnight accommodation is also available. This is a Medieval experience. Candlelight only.

Located in the midlands, just outside Birr, on the way to Clonmacnoise on the river Shannon, a kilometer from Shannon Harbour and a few miles from Banagher and Shannonbridge, there is much to suit tourists and time-travelers alike. Clonony Castle is open to the public as work progresses. This work depends primarily on the weather and availability of gardeners and craftsmen. There are no specific hours, though most of the summer is filled with activity and the gates are open. Donations are gratefully received and go directly toward the conservation of the building.
The Castle Man