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Charles Fort, Kinsale

4.6
#1 of 39 in Things to do in Kinsale
#Historic Site, #Tourist Spot, #Must See
A fine example of a star-shaped military structure, Charles Fort once served as an important part of a waterfront defense system designed to resist cannon attacks. Built in the 1670s on the site of a medieval castle, the fort remained in use until 1922, playing a key role in some of the most important battles in Irish history. Two giant bastions, the fort's main features, overlook the water, while three others face inland. To learn the history behind the fort's weather-beaten walls and see what remains of the old military barracks and support facilities, join a daily guided tour, available year-round. The tour involves a walk on rocky terrain, so bring appropriate footwear. Use our Kinsale trip itinerary website to arrange your visit to Charles Fort and other attractions in Kinsale.
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Charles Fort Tours
Full-Day Kinsale and West Cork Tour BOOK WITH VIATOR FROM $49
3 reviews
Duration: 8 to 9 hrs
Buy tours from $49
Charles Fort Reviews
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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating 4.5
1,731 reviews
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4.5
TripAdvisor
  • By SteMcCormack On March 19, 2018
    This place is worth the visit just for the views from the walls alone, In addition to the walks around the parapets, some of the buildings are still intact and house different exhibits from the variou...  more »
  • By ShaunaM25 On March 15, 2018
    We visited here last year on a whim, we had driven to Kinsale to pass some time one Sunday afternoon. As we were leaving we say a sign for the fort and decided to go, we were greeted by a friendly cha...  more »
  • By Tmcgrath2013 On March 10, 2018
    This was a nice stop on our March family trip. We had older folks and kids with us and all enjoyed it. A decent amount of walking as is the case with most of the historic sites but well worth it. We t...  more »
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Google
  • By Josh Wray On April 5, 2018
    Fantastic fort to visit. We didn't plan to come here but it was well worth the stop. We ended up staying 1.5 hrs walking around the fort, taking plenty of pictures and enjoying the views. It seemed like we were on the edge of the world. I recommend visiting it you love this type of architecture and history. Well worth it. Admission was free yesterday and the price was 5€ for adults. 13€ for families.
  • By Nick Turner On April 5, 2018
    Great place for a windy visit. Much bigger than you expect after entering. Well maintained and staff were very friendly and helpful
  • By Geraldine McCarthy On March 7, 2018
    Been here over forty times as it's amazing and so breathtaking views scenery and awesome place ❤️❤️💕💕💕
  • By E Buckley On November 12, 2017
    Beautiful historic place with lovely views. Great day out if you get nice weather and get there early. Wrap up warm on the cold days. The fort has been open to the public for some years now and it is a shame that no great improvements have been made to the structure or to the displays. The OPW seem to reinvest the minimum of money to the site with the minimum of preservation. Tours are not always available and the opening times on Google are not up to date. Closed today 12th November at 5 instead of 6.
  • By Isa Bilal On October 27, 2017
    Wonderful locale. The fort is excellent but the environment is great if you also want a dip in the shallow sea whilst staring at this impressive building.
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