Newtown Castle

Newtown Castle stands close to the village of Ballyvaughan in the Burren, County Clare, on the western coast of Ireland. It is a 16th-century fortified tower house, thought to have been built around 1550 for a branch of the O’Brien family. What sets it apart from most Irish tower houses is its shape: the tower is cylindrical, rising from a square pyramidal base, giving it a tall and distinctive profile that is unusual among buildings of its kind.

The castle later passed to the O’Loghlen family, a powerful local dynasty. In the 1830s Charles O’Loghlen lived here and was known locally as the “King of the Burren”, while Peter O’Loghlen, styled “Prince of the Burren”, is recorded as the last occupant in the late 1800s. As a defensive dwelling, the tower was built with features such as gun loops, narrow slit windows and a parapet walk.

By the late 20th century the tower had fallen into disrepair, having lost its roof and much of its stonework. In September 1989 it was acquired by Michael and Mary Greene, and following an extensive restoration the building reopened in 1994. Today Newtown Castle forms part of the neighbouring Burren College of Art and is used for events such as exhibitions, concerts and receptions.

Visitors travelling through the Burren will find the castle a short distance from Ballyvaughan. As opening arrangements can change, it is worth checking current visitor details in advance of a trip.