Built in 1467 by Seán Mac Conmara, Knappogue became the seat of the MacNamara sept and, remarkably, remained continuously inhabited or maintained for over five centuries. It served as headquarters for the East Clare Brigade during the War of Independence and was extensively restored in 1969.
Visiting Knappogue Castle
Yes — open for guided tours and hosts medieval banquets and weddings.
"Built in 1467 by Seán Mac Conmara, Knappogue became the seat of the MacNamara sept and, remarkably, remained continuously inhabited or maintained for over five centuries."
Where to stay nearby
The closest castle hotel is Dromoland Castle, 5.94 km away in Newmarket-on-Fergus — 16th-century-origin castle, ancestral seat of the O'Briens of Dromoland (descended from Brian Boru), rebuilt after the family submitted to Henry VIII.
Nearest castle hotel · 5.94 km
Dromoland Castle
Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare · 5-star / luxury
Check rates & book →