My Favorite Castle in Ireland: Trim Castle

While studying abroad in England, I saw more castles than I could count—but one stood out above the rest, and it wasn’t even in England. On a weekend trip to Ireland, I discovered Trim Castle, and it quickly became my favorite.

A Little History.

Located in County Meath, Trim Castle is the largest Norman castle in Ireland, built in the 12th century by Hugh de Lacy. It played a major role in Ireland's medieval history and even appeared in the film Braveheart!

Why It Stood Out.

After touring so many castles, Trim felt refreshingly different. The interior is largely in ruins, but the site is brilliantly preserved with wooden walkways and platforms that guide you from the ground floor all the way to the top. Standing on the roof of a centuries-old ruin, looking out over the Irish countryside? Unforgettable.The stone used to build the castle has oxidized over time, giving much of it a unique greenish tint, which I thought made it even more striking and different from others I’d visited.

Worth the Stop.

If you’re a castle lover (like me), Trim Castle is a must-see. It’s atmospheric, less crowded than other big-name sites, and offers amazing views and photo ops. Plus, the guided tour adds a lot of context and makes the experience even better. Planning a trip to Ireland or the UK and love castles? Let’s chat—I’d love to help you map out the must-sees for your own adventure!