History

  A plate at the entrance of the site placed by the Limerick Civic Trust [1] gave us some useful information about the history of Kilduff Castle. From it, we learned that the castle was originally built by the MacBrian family around 1550, who descended from Brian Boru. It was then held by the Hurley family from 1617 to the 1650s [1, 2], until they were dispossessed and transplanted to Connaught, during the Cromwellian settlement. In 1667, it was given to the Erasmus Smith’s Charity Schools. According to [2], Sir Maurice Hurley might have regained Kilduff Castle during the Jacobite administration (1685-1690) but probably the castle finally fell into ruin during the Williamite wars [1, 2].
Perhaps, in the early 18th century, William Hurley and William Apjohn dueled for the ownership of the castle, where the first was killed and the latter prosecuted for murder trial, which might explain why Kilduff castle was never rebuilt afterwards [2].
  The structure of the castle is well described in another panel, where it is explained that the ground floor served for storage and also for living in, as demonstrated by the presence of a large fireplace. The main room on the first floor was a parlour for domestic use while the main bedroom was at the second floor. Finally, the hall was located at the top of the castle, which was the safest place of the tower, and was intended to be used for important occasions.

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Other useful links

Tips

  We have passed this ruin so many times and stopped by almost on every occasion. If you are driving from Limerick to Tipperary along the N24, you will definitely spot the remains of Kilduff Castle, just out of the St. Anthony’s Nursing Home.
  Although there is not much left of this castle, it is still amazing, especially when the sun rays gently caress it, as if also nature shows mercy towards its turbulent past. On our last visit, even the cattle posed as unpaid protagonists into our pictures.
  If you are curious, drive slowly, pull over and have a quick stop: there is room for parking and, although the castle is located on a private property, it can be closely seen. A great picture and something about its history is all you walk away with but it’s very worth it. And… Beware of the bulls! 🐂