Lismore Bridge designed by Thomas Ivory is one of the main view points of the majestic Lismore Castle. The bridge which spans the River Blackwater and its tributary the Abh na Shead was destroyed by floods in 1852 but was rebuilt to Ivory’s original plans.

Lismore Castle

Lismore Castle built by Prince John in 1185, is impressively situated overlooking the River Blackwater and is a breathtaking sight as you enter the Heritage Town of Lismore. What you see of Lismore Castle today is largely due to the extensive restoration work of the 6th Duke of Devonshire in conjunction with the famous architect and gardener Joseph Paxton. It was during this work between 1840 and 1858 that the ‘Book of Lismore’ and the Lismore Crozier were found hidden in the walls of the castle.

Many famous faces have lived or stayed in the castle including Sir Walter Raleigh, Richard Boyle (Earl of Cork) and even Hollywood extraordinaire Fred Astaire. The Castle and its land were passed onto the 4th Duke of Devonshire by reason of his marriage to Lady Charlotte Boyle in 1748 and so remains in the hands of the Dukes of Devonshire.

Though the Castle itself is not open to the public, Lismore Castle Gardens are open from March until the end of September. The west wing of the Castle has been restored into a contemporary Art Gallery  - Lismore Castle Arts, that hosts one major international exhibition annually.

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