Visit Haunted Castles in Ireland

Castle doors suddenly slam shut. Swift winds tear through guest rooms on otherwise calm nights. Terrifying wails are heard from deep within castles. The reason for these events? Ghosts. Their spirits have been haunting some castles in Ireland for hundreds of years. If you are brave enough, you might want to visit or stay in one of the real haunted castles in Ireland.

Many battles took place in Irish castles over many centuries of struggle for Irish rule. The violence and bloodshed took many lives and created many legends. Some of the castle ghosts were involved in the fighting; others had more personal tragedies. I visited many haunted castles during my most recent castle tour.

Charleville Castle in County Offaly is haunted by the ghost of its former owner, by druids buried on the grounds, and by a girl who fell from a high staircase to her death. When I visited, ghost hunters were setting up equipment to detect the spirits.

Clonony Castle is in County Offaly, near the Shannon River. A ghostly figure of a man reportedly patrols one of its towers.

Ballygally Castle is 20 miles from Belfast on the Antrim coast in Northern Ireland. It is a beautiful hotel and is said to have its own friendly ghost!

Carrickfergus Castle in County Antrim, Northern Ireland is home to "Buttoncap", the ghost of a young 16th Century soldier.

Huntington Castle in County Carlow is built on the site of a Druids Temple. Spirits of deceased monks, a murdered soldier, and Lady Esmond all haunt this large estate.

Killua Castle, located in County Westmeath, is rumored to have a former employee's ghostly figure stalking the grounds at night.

Castle Leslie in County Monaghan, Northern Ireland is a beautiful castle haunted by Norman Leslie, slain in World War I.

Gormanston Castle in County Meath was owned by a family for seven centuries. Legend has it that foxes surrounded the castle upon the death of one of the family members.

Kinnitty Castle in Country Offaly is a beautifully restored castle hotel built on land once inhabited by Druids. This castle is haunted by the "Phantom Monk of Kinnitty".

Wilton Castle in County Wexford is said to be home to the ghosts of a former magistrate, a dead actress, and a former castle resident.

Leap Castle in County Offaly is widely regarded as the most haunted castle in Ireland. Its bloody past of massacres and murders has led to the presence of vengeful ghosts and unexplained noises, placing Leap Castle at the top of the list of real haunted castles in Ireland.

Whether or not you believe in ghost stories, it is worth testing your beliefs firsthand. You will definitely enjoy a visit to these beautiful and real haunted castles in Ireland.

Take the worry out of booking your own special trip to the Emerald Isle. Go to the author's website at http://www.majestic-castles-in-ireland.com for Ireland travel advice. Experience the beautiful landscapes, the stunning coastlines, the quaint villages, the thriving cities and majestic castles of Ireland.

Patricia McKinney-Lins, the author, began traveling to Ireland in 1998 when she and her friend took a trip around the country. Since then, she has returned often with her children and on her own.

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The Top 7 Must See Castles of the British Isles

The castles of the British Isles have always been a fascination for travelers from the time they were being constructed to modern times. Castles bring to mind royalty, kings, queens, princes, princesses, and for some, even dragons. The stuff of fantasy and intrigue, roughly 5000 castles were built in the British Isles since the Norman Conquest. Many castles were originally built from wood and later reconstructed in stone. England, Wales, and Scotland are home to some of the most famous and highly visited castles in the world.

Castles exist as monuments to a time when kings had them built not only to serve as palace homes, and symbols of power, but also as fortresses to protect people and secure land from conflicts and warfare. Through the centuries, many castles have fallen into ruin. Others have been preserved and a few even remain inhabited to this day.

This article will focus on seven of the most famous castles travelers visiting the British Isles should consider as part of their itinerary when traveling to this part of the world.

Castles in Wales

Caernarfon Castle, North Wales

The grandest of the castles in northern Wales is Caernarfon Castle, commissioned by King Edward I to serve as the capital of the English-captured Wales. Construction began in 1283 and continued for over 50 years, with some parts of it never obtaining completion. Situated on the banks of the Rivert Seiont, the castle contains two huge enclosed courtyards that meet in the middle surrounded by a series of polygonal towers and walls of up to 20 feet thick that enclosed the new English town of Caernafon. The first Prince of Wales was born at this castle. Visitors to this magnificent and historically significant castle will find much to discover including wall walks, draw bridges, exhibitions and displays.

Caerphilly Castle, South Wales

Second in size only to Britain's Windsor Castle, the Caerphilly Castle was begun in 1268 to thwart Llywelyn the Last's attempts to retain southern Wales from the English. Llwelyn ap Gwynedd was the last independent prince of Wales. This immense castle, also associated with Edward I, stands as a true symbol of medieval castles, boasting a moat and standing as an impenetrable fortress against invasion. It was built by Gilbert de Clare, lord of Glamorgan whose wife, the beautiful Princess Alice of Angouleme, is thought to haunt the castle as a ghost wearing a green dress.

Conway Castle, North Wales

Similar to Caerarfon and Carphilly Castles, Conway Castle was part of the "iron ring" of castles commissioned by Edward I intended to protect the English colonies and confine the Welsh. Built almost entirely between 1283 and 1289 with up to 1,500 laborers and craftsmen at times, the great fortress is very well preserved. The castle, a World Heritage Site, sits on the River Conway which served both as a means of transportation and defense. Today, the walkable town walls of the castle span ¾ of a mile providing a stunning view of its grounds including 22 towers and three original gateways. The wall walks also give a panoramic view of the gorgeous surrounding town and countryside.

Castles in Scotland

Edinburgh Castle, South Eastern Scotland

The site of Edinburgh Castle has been a strategic location for settlements dating back long before the Roman Empire. Sitting atop an extinct volcano and protected on three sides by dramatically vertical drops, Edinburgh Castle was initially build in the 11th century. After years of battle between England and Scotland, King David II of Scotland commissioned the rebuilding of the castle and it has sustained several renovations over the years. Mary Queen of Scotts gave birth to James VI in the royal palace in the castle walls. James went on to become King of England, thereby uniting Scotland and England as one kingdom. Edinburgh Castle is the most popular paid tourist attraction in all of Scotland.

Castles in England

Warwick Castle, South Central England

The medieval Warwick Castle was begun in 1068 by William the Conqueror. It has a storied history, from serving as home to the Earl of Warwick to a place to hold prisoner, including King Edward IV. Warwick Castle sits on a bluff at the bend of the River Avon and was named as one of Britain's "top ten historic houses and monuments" by the British Tourist Agency. In 1978, the castle was sold to a media and entertainment group and is now run as both a tourist attraction and theme park with plenty of activities for the entire family.

Windsor Castle, Southern England

The magical Windsor Castle is the largest and longest occupied castle in the entire world. Originally built by William the Conqueror from roughly 1066 to 1076, the castle was entirely rebuilt in the 14th century by Edward III and today is roughly 483,000 square feet in size. One of the primary homes of the royal family, Windsor Castle has had many modifications and extensions over the years to bring it to modern standards as a monarchy residence. Surrounded by extraordinary gardens and landscape, various parts of the castle are open to the public

The Tower of London, Southern England

Dating back to 1066 following the Norman Conquest, the original fortress of the Royal Palace was built by William the Conqueror who added the famous White Tower in 1078. Also known as Her Majesty's Royal Palace and Fortress, this historic castle sits on the River Thames in central London. One of the world's most famous landmarks, the Tower of London houses not only the royal family but also the Crown Jewels. One of the richest sources of English history, the tower was the prison for two young princes, Edward V and Richard, Duke of York who were in line to become king when their father King Edward died. Unfortunately, their ambitious uncle Richard, Duke of Gloucester wanted to be king and the boys were said to be murdered in the Garden Tower. Other famous prisoners were Ann Boleyn, second wife to King Henry the VIII, and the explorer Sir Walter Raleigh. Both were beheaded. Serving as a tourist attraction since Elizabethan times, the Tower of London is one of the most popular attractions in the country, boasting over 2.4 million visitors each year.

Jillynn Stevens, Ph.D. is a writer with a vast array of subject matter expertise. This article is written on behalf of Fun for Less Tours, a tour agency specializing in LDS or Mormon group travel, at http://www.funforlesstours.com//

Dr. Stevens works for Be Locally SEO at http://www.belocallyseo.com/

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Historic North Wales - Castles and Castellated Mansions in Snowdonia

The age of chivalry to which so many Welsh castles belong evokes romantic images of heroic knights winning fair ladies' hands. But when you look at the design and construction of Snowdonia's medieval castles, it's clear this wasn't a romantic age at all, but one of hardship and brutality.

Snowdonia's castles tell the story of the region's struggles for independence from the English crown, and some of Snowdonia's best-known castles were built by the English king, Edward I, in an effort to subdue the Welsh.

But the Welsh princes were also prolific castle builders; Snowdonia's Welsh castles provided protection and served as inspirational symbols of the Welsh struggle for independence.

In Victorian times, wealthy land owners looked to the past for inspiration in creating homes that portrayed wealth, status and power; consequently, Snowdonia is dotted with beautiful neo-Norman castellated mansions that ooze character.

1. Caernarfon Castle

Caernarfon Castle was arguably Edward's finest castle in Snowdonia, costing £25,000 to build - a vast sum in medieval terms. The bands of red sandstone built into Caernarfon Castle's walls are said to imitate the walls of Constantinople. Caernarfon Castle and town walls are a UNESCO World Heritage site.

2. Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle - another of Edward's castles and also a UNESCO World Heritage site - was begun at the same time as Caernarfon Castle, in 1283. It took ten years to complete the castle, which is built on a base of bare rock surrounded by marsh and water. The castle's eight fortified towers rise up over Conwy, providing stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside.

3. Criccieth Castle

Criccieth Castle is one of the great Welsh castles of Snowdonia, built by Llywelyn ab Iorwerth and later extended by Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. Edwards I and II remodelled the castle, and there is still dispute as to which parts of the castle are Welsh and which are English. Perched atop a rocky promontory that juts dramatically into Tremadog Bay, Criccieth Castle is a spectacular sight from ground level, and views from the castle across the bay and the surrounding countryside are absolutely breathtaking.

4. Harlech Castle

Harlech Castle - another UNESCO World Heritage site - has been described as "the definitive Welsh castle", although it was actually built by Edward I. Harlech fell to Owain Glyndwr in 1404, and was his headquarters for the duration of his uprising. During the Wars of the Roses Harlech was held for the Lancastrians, enduring an eight-year siege which inspired the song "Men of Harlech".

5. Castell y Bere

The ruins of Castell y Bere, near Tywyn, are often overlooked by visitors. But here you'll get a great sense of the history of this part of Snowdonia, and the might of the Welsh princes. From the remains of the rectangular tower you'll get the best views of the layout of the castle, and of Cader Idris, the brooding mountain overlooking the ruins.

6. Penrhyn Castle

Penrhyn Castle, just outside Bangor, is a castellated mansion which extends from the original medieval manor house in an extravagant display of Victorian wealth and status. Penrhyn's exterior is imposing and impressive; its interior beautifully carved and vaulted like a medieval cathedral. Penrhyn Castle also houses a wonderful art collection and railway museum.

7. Dolbadarn Castle

The remains of Dolbadarn Castle, near Llanberis, are an evocative sight. Built by Llywelyn ab Iorwerth before 1230, Dolbadarn stands in a strategically important spot, which historians believe was the site of a 6th century fortress. Dolbadarn is distinguished by its mighty tower, whose remains stand at 40ft. The floors have long since disappeared, but you can still climb the stairs to the top.

8. Dolwyddelan Castle

Like Castell y Bere and Criccieth, Dolwyddelan is a Welsh castle built by the Welsh. Dolwyddelan was built by Llywelyn ab Iorwerth, some time after 1200, and was defended against Edward I by Llywelyn's grandson Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. Like other Snowdonia castles, Dolwyddelan is in a beautiful setting with amazing views, so make sure you take your camera.

9. Bryn Bras Castle

Bryn Bras Castle, Caernarfon, is the work of Thomas Hopper, creator of Penrhyn Castle. Bryn Bras is privately owned and so is not open for visits, but you can rent a holiday apartment within the castle and enjoy a stylish break in beautiful and historic surroundings.

10. Castell Deudraeth

Part of the Portmeirion estate near Porthmadog, Castell Deudraeth is a 19th century castellated mansion built by David Williams, the first Liberal MP for Meirioneth. Castell Deudraeth was once used as a prep school, but in 2001 opened as a luxury hotel and restaurant. Visit Castell Deudraeth as part of your tour of Portmeirion, or book a table for a delicious dinner of local produce cooked to perfection by expert chefs.

Steven Jones is Senior Tourism Services Officer at Cyngor Gwynedd Council, a Welsh local authority whose not-for-profit Snowdonia Mountains and Coast website provides visitors to Snowdonia with a wealth of useful information about the region. Visitors to the website can also find out more about things to do in Snowdonia.

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Walks in Wales

Walking in Wales offers a delightful opportunity to take in the full majesty of the countryside while getting your exercise and working up a healthy appetite for the area cuisine. Exploring Wales on foot offers the opportunity to fill a day or weekend trip with all the side trips, and meanders you can manage at your own pace. Your vacation will be comprised of a totally personal experience of the area and Wales walks can be researched in advanced and customized for all levels of experience, whether you are a stroller, a strider, or a hiker you can be truly happy walking in Wales.

Walking in North Wales

Waling in North Wales is an experience that is defined by your geographical relationship to Snowdonia National Park. This area is comprised by almost 840 square miles of land and it includes lakes, mountains, and other impressively diverse areas of natural beauty. The land of the mountains is only a short distance from the equally spectacular coastlines of Llyn Peninsula, which can be walked on the Llyn Coastal Footpath.

You could also try walking the Isle of Anglesey, which is Wales' largest island and a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Its one of the most important wildlife habitats in the British Isles and has a rich history of Neolithic and Bronze Age inhabitance.

Walking in Mid Wales

Mid Wales offers a quieter, less crowded experience of the countryside, but its natural beauty is no less spectacular for all that. Popular walking sites include:

· Ceredigion and Cardigan Bay, which is one of two sites in the U.K. with a population of bottlenose dolphins. The walks in this area are characterized by observations of the coastal and marine wildlife as well as pretty fishing villages.

· Brecon Beacons National Park, home to the Brecon Beacons mountain range. It's the highest range in the park and are considered the best hills in the country. These rounded hills offer open walks.

Walking In South Wales

South Wales contains perhaps the widest variety of terrain among the three walking regions of Wales. It boasts beautiful moors, rolling hills, beaches and cliff tops, valleys and hilltops, canals and rivers and coastline. It is also the home of Wales' longest national trail. Within this area of the country can be seen:

· Swansea Bay
· Wye Valley and the Vale of Usk
· Glamorgan Heritage Coast
· The South Wales Valleys
· Pembrokeshire
· Carmarthenshire

This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of Celtic Haven Pembrokeshire Holiday Cottages which make ideal accommodation for a Short Break in Pembrokeshire.

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A brief history of Wales

There are so many sites and great things to see in the United Kingdom. The UK has so much to offer tourists and citizens. There are beautiful country sides, historic sites, and dozens of other fun and interesting attractions. For those who live here or those who visit, the UK can always offer a good time and help people have an enjoyable time with friends of family.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to decide what to do or what to see in such a culturally diverse and interesting place. Amongst all the amazing things to see in the UK, one that you should absolutely not miss is Wales.

You probably have heard of Wales before. Wales is actually a country that is part of the United Kingdom that is actually touching England. It is a great place to live and a wonderful place to visit. For those who are completely unfamiliar with Wales, here is a brief little history to get you acquainted with this UK gem.

Beginnings

One of the more fascinating things about Wales is that it is not a young country. Wales has a rich and long history dating back hundreds and even thousands of years ago. Wales first began when the Celts began to settle in this area around 1000BC. However, Wales's history wasn't really recorded until around 50AD. At this time, the Romans were coming into Wales.

Interesting Facts

Wales has also been a part of its fair share of battles and conflicts. King Arthur even has a piece of Wales's history. The British and the Saxons fought in Wales and King Arthur was present and involved during this conflict.

Wales was also involved when the Normans were invading England. Wales was successful in resisting the Normans.

Today

Wales has had a long and interesting history from these early points until the present day. There have been some low points and some high points. Today, Wales is a fascinating place that offers some wonderful culture and excitement for any visitor or any potential resident. People love living in Wales.

More recently, Wales has made a splash in the sports world. During the summer Olympic Games in Beijing in 2008, there were a number of athletes competing from Wales.

There is another highlight that people from Wales have to look forward to. Golf has a very prestigious tournament every other year called the Ryder Cup, which Wales will host this year.

This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of Celtic Haven, a great base to explore on a Short Break Wales by offering ideal Wales Holiday Cottage accommodation.

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