Howth Castle

 Howth Castle and estate is located just outside of the village of Howth, County Dublin Ireland (Irish: Binn Éadair, Contae Bhaile Átha Cliath, Éire). This is a privately owned but is open by arrangement for guided tours on Sundays during June, July and August and on Saturdays in July. The origins of the castle date back to the twelfth century when the original wooden castle was built by Almeric from whom the present owners descend. A new castle, also of wood was built on the present site in the early thirteenth century and later rebuilt in stone. The earliest remaining parts of the present structure date back to the mid-fifteenth century. Since 1180 the St Lawrence family were the feudal lords of Howth and the castle was the ancestral home of the line of the St Lawrence family. The Gate Tower and Keep date from the 15th century. There is a legend associated with the castle involving the Gaelic chieftain and "pirate queen" Grace (Gráinne) O’Malley.  She was said to have once visited the Castle in 1576, but was not permitted entry. In retaliation she abducted the Earl's son. He was eventually released when a promise was given to keep the gates open to unexpected visitors. The castle is in the Howth Peninsula and can be reached via the Howth Dart train station going right from the entrance and after about 200m cross the road and follow the signs for Deer Park Hotel or Transport Museum.

Links: Howth Castle and image courtesy Fingal County Council. Further link to Visit Dublin Howth Castle.