If you’re an adventure seeker with Ireland on your travel list, chances are you’ve heard about Blarney Castle – or at least its legendary Blarney Stone, famous for bestowing the “gift of gab.”

Legend has it that a kiss on this mystical stone grants you the ability to speak with eloquence and charm. But there’s a catch: to receive this gift, you have to kiss the stone while hanging upside down, perched about 90 feet above the ground. Sounds intense, doesn’t it?

When I first read about its daring location, I couldn’t help but wonder why it had to be so high up. Why not choose a safer, less intimidating spot?

If you’ve ever had similar questions, get ready for an in-depth journey through the history and mysteries of Blarney Castle. By the end, we’ll uncover all there is to know about this fascinating place. Let’s get started!

Why is it Blarney?

According to the dictionary, “blarney” refers to speech that aims to charm, flatter, or persuade. Interestingly, it’s a term often associated with Irish wit and charisma. Intrigued by this, I delved into its origins and discovered a fascinating legend.

The story goes that Queen Elizabeth I demanded that McCarthy surrender Blarney Castle. However, through charm and clever negotiation, McCarthy managed to delay and distract both the Queen and the Earl of Leicester, ensuring that the castle was never taken. Frustrated, the Queen referred to the Earl’s unproductive reports and McCarthy’s excuses as “blarney,” and thus the word found its place in the Irish lexicon.

But there’s another layer to the legend. During these tense times, McCarthy, anxious about losing his land and feeling unsure of his persuasive abilities, is said to have met an old woman, rumored to be a witch. She revealed that a particular stone within Blarney Castle held magical powers that could grant him the “gift of gab” if he kissed it. McCarthy followed her advice, gained the confidence and skill to sway the Queen, and his success became legendary.

Today, visitors continue the tradition, kissing the stone while hanging upside down in hopes of acquiring the famed “gift of gab.”

Why do people kiss the Blarney stone upside down? 

Well, kissing the Blarney Stone upside down is simply the only way to reach it. The stone is embedded within a small section of the castle’s wall, positioned about six inches down from the rooftop edge. To reach it, visitors must lie on their backs and lean far back. Thankfully, an iron railing is there to assist. While gripping tightly to the railing, you’ll find yourself leaning back and taking in a dizzying view of the ground 90 feet below.

I’ll admit, I felt a bit anxious at first. The ancient structure of the castle had me questioning if it could support so many visitors. But as I explored further, my concerns about its strength were quickly put to rest—though my guess about its age was spot on. While the tradition of kissing the stone began in the 18th century, the stone itself has been part of the castle since 1446.

For those who are wary of heights, rest assured, you’ll be in good hands. A trained attendant will guide you through the entire process, ensuring your safety at every step. And trust me, it’s much safer now than it once was. In the past, visitors would have their ankles tied together before leaning down to kiss the stone—an incredibly daring tradition!

Legend has it that the practice was discontinued after a traveler slipped free and tragically fell. Sometimes, the “old ways” aren’t necessarily the best ways.

But don’t worry if you’re hesitant about the 90-foot drop. Blarney Castle has so much more to offer beyond the famous stone!

More Than Just a Kiss!

As I made my way toward the castle grounds, the first thing that struck me was the grandeur of the structure. Blarney Castle is a true sight to behold, with a rich history spanning over 600 years. Walking through its halls feels like stepping back in time—I still vividly remember exploring every nook and cranny during my visit last January. It was nothing short of epic!

The journey itself was part of the adventure. I hopped on a train from Heuston Station in Dublin and enjoyed a picturesque ride through the Irish countryside before arriving at Cork Kent Station. A quick bus ride later, I found myself at the gates of Blarney Castle. Easy as pie!

Meeting the castle was a moment to remember. Interestingly, this isn’t the first fortress to stand on the site. Initially, there was a wooden structure dating back to the 10th century, later replaced by a stone castle around 1210 A.D. The current iteration, built by Cormac MacCarthy, King of Munster, rose in 1446 after the previous structure was destroyed.

This is where the journey of the Blarney Stone truly began. The stone was incorporated into the castle’s battlements that same year. To reach it today, visitors must undertake a climb of 127 steps up a spiral staircase—a challenge that’s as thrilling as it sounds! Along the way, each floor offers a chance to peek into rooms steeped in history. With every turn, I could almost hear whispers of the lives once lived within these ancient walls.

The rooms themselves weren’t particularly large but were sufficient for their time. Helpful signage guided the way, and soon, I was met with a breathtaking sight at the rooftop: stunning views of the castle grounds below. Whether you’re queuing up to kiss the famous stone or simply soaking in the scenery, the view is nothing short of unforgettable.

Descending via a different spiral staircase only heightened the excitement, leading to more hidden rooms and secrets of Blarney Castle. A few memorable stops along the way include:

The Murder Room
Perched above the castle’s main entrance, this room had a menacing name but served a practical purpose. Guards used it to defend against intruders by dropping rocks and other weapons through a square hole. Though the name may be grim, it was an essential part of the castle’s defenses.

The Witch’s Kitchen
Not a literal kitchen but rather a rock formation near the castle’s base that resembles one. It’s tied to the legend of the witch who supposedly started the kissing tradition. Legend says she roams free at night, and if you visit early in the morning, you might spot dying embers from her fire in a nearby cave. Creepy? A little. But I’d rather explore the Herbaceous Border instead!

The Herbaceous Border
This 100-meter stretch of colorful blooms and greenery feels like a floral wonderland. At its peak stands an 80-meter rose pergola, creating a breathtaking sight. The border transforms with the seasons, making it a must-see whether you visit in the summer or autumn.

Blarney Castle offers so much more for nature enthusiasts, including 60 acres of gardens featuring a Poison Garden, Fern Garden, Ice House, and arboretums. Yes, a Poison Garden! Home to 70 toxic plant species, it educates visitors on dangerous plants found in the wild and in gardens, with the most lethal specimens safely caged. Signs caution visitors not to touch, smell, or eat any plants—a good reminder to keep little ones close by.

Blarney House
From the castle rooftop, I caught sight of this enchanting residence, home to the Colthurst family since 1704. Open for tours during the summer, it offers a glimpse into the blending of modern life with historical charm. It’s only a short walk from the castle and well worth the visit.

Blarney Castle truly has something for everyone. Other highlights include the Bog Garden, Giant Rhubarb, Badger’s Cave, Druid’s Cave, Wishing Steps, and Horse Graveyard, along with large woodlands, court exhibition rooms, a café, and a souvenir shop. I wrapped up my journey with traditional Irish food and a few souvenirs.

Heading back to Dublin, I carried with me more than just memories of the castle’s beauty. The warmth and hospitality of the Irish people made my trip unforgettable—an easy 10 out of 10!

Quick Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by getting there as soon as it opens. If you arrive late, it may take hours just to reach the top.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Make sure to pack sturdy footwear with good traction. The spiral staircases can be slippery and challenging.
• Claustrophobia Warning: Be aware that the staircases are narrow, steep, and tight, reflecting the castle’s centuries-old design. Crowds can add to the difficulty, so prepare accordingly.
• Bring Cash: Admission costs around €20 for adults, €16 for students and seniors (65+), and €9 for children ages 6–16. Small purchases may not always accept credit cards.
• Check for Special Events: Some events offer access to exclusive areas and provide unique experiences.
• Allocate Time: Plan to spend several hours exploring; the grounds are extensive and worth every moment.
• Sample the Local Cuisine: Try local food while you’re there, or feel free to bring your own.
• Bring Your Camera: Don’t forget your camera to capture every magical moment!

So, do you have what it takes to acquire the gift of gab? Even Winston Churchill is said to have kissed the stone. Maybe it’ll grant you your own legendary charm!