The ruins of Carrigogunnell Castle occupy a preeminent position on an outcrop of volcanic rock near the village of Ballybrown, County Limerick. Its lofty perch over steep, even precipitous slopes, provided natural defences to supplement its once sturdy outer walls and gave unrestricted views over potential military threats from the Shannon Estuary and the surrounding countryside. Today's visitor can, on a clear day, see sweeping panoramic views of the Shannon Estuary, from Limerick City to the East, to North Kerry and West Clare. Below are the flat, green lowlands bordering the estuary, stretching westwards towards Askeaton. To the North of the estuary can be seen Bunratty Castle, Shannon Town and airport and the broad estuary of the River Fergus, opening into the Shannon. To the south is Limerick and North Cork, and Kerry to the West.
The castle's present ruinous state is mostly the result of military conflict. It was founded in the Thirteenth Century by the Norman, William de Burgo, who married into the O'Brien family, kings of Munster. The O'Briens held it until the Sixteenth Century. Finally, the castle fell victim to the unstable political and military climate of the Seventeenth Century. In 1691, after the Second Siege of Limerick, the victorious Williamites, suspecting the castle was a threat to their rule, had the castle destroyed with explosives.
The waypoint (N52 38.476 W008 44.233) marks the entry to the 600 metre road leading directly to the castle. The road is narrow, unpaved, and the surface is eroded on the slopes, so if bringing a car, take care. When parking, avoid blocking what could be an entry to someone's home. At the top of the road, a muddy path leads to the right up to the castle entrance. Towards the back, you can see the remains of a circular stone stairwell, in several pieces, a victim of past conflicts.
Warning!
The present standing structures have long endured attacks from armies and Mother Nature. The site is not maintained, so be very careful when exploring the ruins. Also, the site is surrounded by steep, sometimes vertical drops that may be hidden from view. Supervise children carefully.