Leap Castle
Leap Castle outside Roscrea in Tipperary lies close to Seir Kieran in Offaly. It was built in the 1500's and is currently owned (2019) and being restored by Séan Ryan, a traditional musician. It is open to visitors for a small fee but I'd recommend phoning to check in advance.
Once inside the Castle the views to the rear reveal the full extent of the fortification and its command of the surrounding countryside.
It's well off the beaten track too so it's not as busy as attractions in urban areas. If you like your Castles looking authentic then Leap Castle is a must see.
Like a lot of Irish Castles Leap was badly damaged and in a poor state for a long time. It was burned during the Irish Civil War. The present owner Séan is doing great work with the building.
You can tour the Castle at your leisure and wander up and down the various corridors and stairwells. There is a "murder hole" on one floor so be careful you don't fall down it as you walk around.
When I visited there was a roaring fire going and the ground floor was nice and inviting.
It is reputed to be the most haunted Castle in Ireland. Leap Castle is on the R 421 roughly midway between Roscrea and Kinnity.
The owner Séan has a wealth of information on the history of the castle and the local area which he is only too happy to share.
Leap Castle
