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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Tours to Charles Fort
Charles Fort reviews
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Visited Charles Fort with 5 friends from the UK. Found it really fascinating and the staff were really helpful. Really enjoyed the visit and the setting and history is amazing. Would highly...
Visited Charles Fort with 5 friends from the UK. Found it really fascinating and the staff were really helpful. Really enjoyed the visit and the setting and history is amazing. Would highly... more »
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We unfortunately missed the last admission at 5pm & chose to wonder around the outside which was worth it. The Fort is quite big & really well preserved from all our observations. We wondered along.... more
We unfortunately missed the last admission at 5pm & chose to wonder around the outside which was worth it. The Fort is quite big & really well preserved from all our observations. We wondered along.... more »
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The view alone is worth the €5. Very nice staff. The grounds are wonderful and the history is the added bonus. We walked to it via the path from Town. Perfect place to spend a few hours...
The view alone is worth the €5. Very nice staff. The grounds are wonderful and the history is the added bonus. We walked to it via the path from Town. Perfect place to spend a few hours... more »
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A walk back in time... Well maintained and restored Star shaped Fort built around 1685 with stunning view out to sea. Very close and easy to access from Kinsale. Definitely worth a visit.
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Really nice place to visit. Plenty parking and excellent views over kinsale. The staff were super informative and helpful and took time out to explain the location
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Charles Fort has beautiful scenery of the surrounding Kinsale area. The Fort was beautifully maintained and the staff were both friendly and knowledgable. Well worth a visit, Charles Fort is a sight to behold if the weather is clear.
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Amazing fort. You can't imagine how big and beautiful it is until you cross the entrance door. Breathtaking views of the buildings with the sea as a background. You can spend some good time walking around them and taking lovely pictures.
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Nice fort to explore with little ones at your own pace, not too tiring. Has some amazing views of the ruins and the marina in the background. Toilet and cafetaria on site!
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