The Rock of Cashel

Welcome to the third episode of Serious Sites in the South-East. This week we are heading to the historic Rock of Cashel in Cashel, County Tipperary. 


What is the Rock of Cashel?
The Rock of Cashel also known as Cashel of the Kings and St.Patrick's Rock is a historic site located in Cashel, Co.Tipperary. It used to be the traditional seat of the Kings of Munster for several hundred years before the Norman invasion. In 1101 the King donated his fortress on the rock to the church. The site is a ruin now days, however, some of the buildings still standing date from the 12th and 13th centuries. The buildings on the rock consist of: the well preserved round tower, Cormac's chapel (which is currently under restoration) and the Cathedral.  

Prices:
Adult : €8.00
Group / Senior : €6.00
Child / Student : €4.00
Family : €20.00

Facilities: Bathrooms near car park.

Wheelchair/Buggies: Unfortunately this site is not accessible by wheelchair as it is there is stairs involved and the ground is extremely uneven with a lot of grass sections. I would not recommend buggies either as there will be a lot of lifting involved. 
Family friendly: I wouldn't recommend this as a family trip as youngsters won't be interested as there is not much to do but enjoy the history.


Aisling's Advice

Personally I did not enjoy this adventure as much as the previous two, there was very little to see or do and it was a long journey to get there. However, for anyone interested in Irish history this is a gold mine! The historic value of the Rock of Cashel is unparalleled. To make the most of your time here I recommend you enjoy the video in the audiovisual room, which tells you all about the history of the rock. Then venture into the restored rooms which will give you a glance back in time to old Ireland. Unfortunately, while I was here they were in the middle of restoring Cormac's chapel so we we're not able to enter the buildings but you can still see the beauty of the structures. From the great height of the rock you get amazing views from every corner, you can even see another old building called Hore Abbey which is a ruined monestry. If you travel down through the fields you can go to Hore Abbey and see the beautiful building that was once there, for no charge! (This part is mucky so I would wear my favourite shoes!)




RATINGS: A HISTROY BUFFS DREAM!
Historical Factors:        4/5 - very interesting but lacking personal history
Aesthetic Factors:         3/5 - lovely but ruins none the less
Overall Experience:      2/5 - cold and not very entertaining



Check out here for my video on the Rock of Cashel:

CLICK HERE

Check out here for more info:

CLICK HERE