Menlo Castle — Attraction in Galway

The castle was built on the site of a mid-16th-century tower, first recorded in 1569. It was occupied by Thomas Colman in 1574 and sold to the Blake family in 1598. • Blake Family: The Blakes, of Anglo-Norman descent, settled in Galway in the 13th century and became one of the wealthiest families in the region, owning lands in the counties of Galway, Mayo and Clare. They expanded the castle, adding a Jacobean mansion in the late 17th century, giving it a grand appearance. The Blakes were renowned for their hospitality, hosting the annual Maying in Menlo, a spring festival of music, dancing and feasting to which locals were invited. • The 1910 Disaster: On 26 July 1910, the castle was destroyed by a massive fire, considered one of the worst to hit western Ireland in 50 years. A fire, believed to have started in the room of Eleanor Blake, the daughter of Sir Valentine and Lady Blake, claimed the lives of Eleanor, who was an invalid, and two maids. Eleanor's body was never found, adding to the mystery of the tragedy. After the fire, only the ivy-covered walls remained of the castle. Sir Valentine and Lady Blake, who were in Dublin at the time, moved to England and never returned to Menlo. Current state • Ruins: Today, Menlo Castle is an ivy-covered wall that blends harmoniously with the natural landscape, creating a picturesque and slightly mystical appearance. It is a popular local attraction, located opposite the campus of the University of...

Menlo Castle is a historic site located on the banks of the River Corrib, just outside of Galway City in Ireland. The castle was built in the early 16th century by the Blake family, who were a prominent local landowning family.

The castle was originally a tower house, which was a common type of fortified dwelling in Ireland at the time. It was later expanded in the 18th century to include additional wings and a courtyard. The castle remained in the possession of the Blake family until the mid-19th century when it was abandoned and fell into disrepair.

Today, Menlo Castle is a popular tourist attraction and a reminder of the rich history of the Galway region. Visitors can explore the ruins of the castle and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The castle is also a popular spot for fishing and other outdoor activities, thanks to its location on the banks of the River Corrib.

Overall, Menlo Castle is a fascinating historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the past of the Galway region. Its beautiful location and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to this...

This was a beautiful spot to see some history and the ruins of what I’m sure once was a gorgeous building that bad become covered in ivy. The ivy provided its own character and certainly a great deal of beauty to the stone work. Unfortunately, as we know, ivy, though beautiful, is no friend to the structures it swallows in time. This place has gone through some changes since my previous visits. While you could come here and it would be completely empty, other times you’d find people camped out or sh*gging on the grass. It’s a shame it didn’t have a bit more protection before the graffiti and the people that could really just find a room for their activities. Also, since I’d walk here, the people on the main road before you make that final turn could really stand to keep their dogs in their yard or on a lead. I’ve had an Akita run out at me, a Dachshund, a Pug, and a few others just from the one block. Here are some of the photos from my...