So on Day 3 after we rented the car and left Dublin, we headed towards Co. Offaly to see Charleville Castle in Tullamore. It is a beautiful Gothic style castle which is in amazing condition! Like most Irish Castles, it has been featured on many paranormal TV shows as well as the movie “Becoming Jane” in 2007.
I loved the old trees which seemed to crawl across the ground. I could use some of these for shoots at home!
The ceiling inside the main room was just stunning! Such incredible detail!
The secret passageway on the right side. I really wanted to follow it through
This staircase was originally for the maids and servants in the castle.
We then drove some more within Co. Offaly just north of a town called Roscrea where we found Leap Castle. This beautiful castle was built in the 15th century and is considered one of Ireland’s most Haunted Castles. It has quite the history!
Sadly, on the very rainy third day of our trip we rang the bell to hopefully gain access to this beautiful gem, but the owner, Sean, was not home. We took some photos from the roadway and ventured back early the next day after a night at our first B&B. Our host told us that Sean is a traveling musician and often is away leaving no one to show the castle. It was unfortunate as I really wanted to get inside the gates of this place since it has such a documented history through paranormal shows and stories from the locals.
We also attempted to visit Clonony Castle this same day, but were met with similar disappointment. The gates were locked and there seemed to be no one around to ask. We poked our heads through the gate to take a few shots and decided to call when we arrived at the B&B to set up a tour. We were successful and then some when it came to visiting this castle on our fourth day, but I will save that for the next blog!
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