Tullynally Castle
Welcome to the Castle at Tullynally. Although this is still lived in as a family home by the Pakenhams, you can enjoy a special guided tour of the historic Great Hall, Dining room, Drawing Room and Library as well as the Victorian Servants’ Quarters. Hear the stories and scandals of the family’s 370 years at Tullynally, and tales of life below stairs
History of the castle
The name Tullynally is an adaption of Tulaigh an Eallaigh – the Hill of the Swan. The hill overlooks Lough Derravaragh, the legendary lake of the Children of Lir who were turned into swans and we like to think the name has some connection with the legend. In Norman times, the land was owned by the FitzSimons who later moved to Wicklow. Henry Pakenham bought the estate in the wake of the Cromwellian civil wars – and built a square “plantation house” which is still the core of the existing castle.
Take the Castle Tour
The Castle itself is open for Tours from May:
Thurs – Saturday at 11am, 12.30pm, 2pm
NO SUNDAY TOURS except during Heritage Week.
Tours are 45 mins.
Castle Tours (includes entry to gardens):
€16.50 Adult
€8.50 child (children over 10 years only).
You can book all tickets online, or they are available in courtyard reception. We highly recommend pre-booking for Castle Tours as numbers are limited.
What Our Visitors Say…
A “Must” Visit
Our tour was outstanding: from the courteous staff in the tea room, to the exceptional knowledge of the guide, the amazing history and artifacts of the Pakenham family, and the lovely gardens. This is a must visit for anyone interested in all aspects of Irish history.
Michael, United States
July 2022
A real hidden gem
This hidden gem in Co. Westmeath is a must see if you’re in the area. We had a wonderful tour of the castle with our guide, Octavia. She was very knowledgeable and offered us a great insight into the Pakenham family, but also how Irish society has changed over the years. Loved the contrast between upstairs and downstairs. If we’d had more time (and if the weather had been dry) we would have loved to have toured the gardens. But that gives us a good excuse to call back!
WaterfordGuy, Ireland
June 2022
Terrific day out
We really enjoyed our day at Tullynally Castle. While the grounds are magnificent, the highlight for us was the chance to tour the castle. It was fascinating. It was made more enjoyable in the knowledge that the castle is also a home and is in constant use by a family. Some of the high points included the more humble aspects of castle life in times gone by – the laundry and drying rooms and the kitchens. We will definitely be back for another tour as it’s certainly warranted. Our tour guide, Magda, was excellent and balanced the interesting content with plenty of humour.
Carmel, Ireland
June 2022
Castle Closed Until 1st May 2025
Tullynally Castle Gardens and Tearoom re-open 29 March 2025. Castle Tours begin 1st May. Please sign up to our newsletter to keep updated.
Opening Hours
Thursday to Saturday:
Set Times: 11am, 12:30pm and 2pm
Castle Tickets
Adults: €16.50
Children: €8.50
Includes Garden Entry Ticket.
*No children under 10
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