The Moat

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Drimnagh Castle is the only castle in Ireland that retains a fully flooded moat.  A moat was a Norman defensive feature that acted as a defense for the people and animals living within the castle compound in times of war and disturbance.  The castle moat is fed by the Bluebell Stream which runs from Greenhills into the Camac River. The current bridge over the moat was erected in 1780 and replaced a drawbridge structure.  

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The Undercroft

The Undercroft was used for cooking and storing food.  It features embrasure windows, a sixteenth century hearth, a smoker and bread oven.  The vaulted ceiling is a typical feature of medieval castles. The murder hole acts as a reminder that the castle was originally a defensive building and it's inhabitants used various means to defend themselves from attackers.

The Great Hall

The great hall was originally an all-purpose living room/sleeping quarters in the 13th century. During the day tables and benches were placed in the centre of the floor for dining and at night straw or reed matting was laid on the floor and the occupants of the castle slept on this covering.  The room was used for daily activities including cooking, dining, entertaining and business.

The Garden

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The garden is medieval style garden called a Parterre Garden and it is one of the highlights of the tour.  The garden is beautifully maintained and features plenty of seasonal flora to enliven the senses.  Summer brings beautiful blooms to the garden, autumn brings lovely warm colours, winter has it's charm and spring sees delightful spring flowers.  The garden features medicinal, culinary and ornamental flowers and plants.