Classiebawn Castle


Although you can't visit this photogenic neo-Gothic turreted pile, views of it against a dramatic backdrop of mountains and sea make for a terrific sight. It was built for Lord Palmerston in 1856 and was later home to the ill-fated Lord Mountbatten, who was killed near here in 1979 when the IRA rigged his boat with explosives.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Mullaghmore Head

1.3 MILES

Big-wave tow-in surfing competitions are regularly held off Mullaghmore Head. The area is becoming known as one of Ireland's premier big-wave surf spots…

2. Creevykeel Court Tomb

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The neatly stacked piles of rocks here stretch some 50m along and sketch a shape similar to a lobster's claw. They outline what is one of Ireland's finest…

3. Streedagh Strand

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Curving, dune-backed, 3km-long Streedagh Strand occasionally sees parts of the Spanish Armada washing up on its shores from three wrecks offshore: La…

4. Gortarowey Forest Recreation Area

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The best way to walk around within the shadow of Benbulben is by visiting this area within Benbulben Forest. There are three trails: the looped longer…

5. St John's Point

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The scenic drive from Dunkineely to St John's Point takes you past a ruined castle tower and tantalising views. It's around a 15km journey to the tip…

6. Tullan Strand

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The long strand of surfing beach has a bountiful supply of that gorgeous trademark fine white sand that much of Ireland is famed for. There are rip tides,…

7. Yeats' Grave

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Yeats was long believed to be buried next to the doorway of Drumcliff Parish Church, but recent evidence suggests that the bones shipped here from France…

8. Lough Glencar Waterfall

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The poet WB Yeats is among those who've fallen for this 15m tumbling torrent, set in the most beautiful area of Lough Glencar – it features in his poem…