What would be more exciting than walking in a castle that is haunted? From castle doors that slam shut to swift winds tearing through guest rooms these haunted castles can be terrifying fun. Many spirits have been said to have been haunting castles for hundreds of years and if you happen to be brave enough you should definitely check one out on your next trip to Ireland.
 |
| Haunted Castles in Ireland |
You will find that many battles took place in Irish castles during the struggle for Irish rule. The violence and bloodshed that took place here took many lives while creating some of the country’s most interesting legends. The following is just a taste of the haunted castles that populate Ireland.
Found on the scenic coastline of Antrim, Ballygally Castle dates back to 1625. The central tower of this beautiful castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of Lady Isobel Shaw. This ghost is known to play tricks on the castle’s guests by knocking on the bedroom doors in the middle of the night.
Kinnitty Castle located in Co. Kildare was created on a druidic site and said to be haunted by a group of druids. Said to be the most haunted castle in Ireland however is Leap Castle in County Offaly. Highly regarded as one of the most haunted places in Europe it has been the subject of a number of television programs.
 |
| Haunted Castles in Ireland |
Throughout the 400 years history of the castle there have been a large number of horrific deeds including events concerning the Bloody Chapel. The castle was a stronghold for the O’Carroll Clan where the leader died in a power struggle between his sons.
 |
| Haunted Castles in Ireland |
One of the sons was a priest and one day while he was saying mass, his brother arrived in the chapel killing him on the spot. This shocking act is the story that is behind the castle’s main haunting as the priest still walks the halls of the castle.
In the 19th century in Leap Castle when workmen were busy in the castle they discovered yet another horror. A hidden room was discovered with a spiked oubliette. The unsuspecting victims would fall through the floor to their death on the spikes that were below and those that survived were left to starve to death. When the workmen discover the room there where piles of bones found.
 |
| Haunted Castles in Ireland |
So if you are looking for a little scary fun to add to your next adventure in Ireland consider taking in a haunted castle.
