- Tyrrellspass Castle
Tyrrellspass Castle [http://www.tyrrellspasscastle.com/history.html Tyrrellspass_Castle_Restaurant_&_Museum ] dates back to circa 1411. It is situated in the town of
Tyrrellspass , Co.Westmeath . It is the only remaining castle of the Tyrrells, who came to Ireland around the time of the Norman Invasion. Tyrellspass is the modern name for Fartullagh, where in 1597 CaptainRichard Tyrrell , a chief ally of Aodh Mór Ó Néill in the Nine Years War, won a major victory against English crown forces in what has become known as theBattle of Tyrrellspass . The Family's' close link withWilliam the Conqueror was also one of the main reasons why this clan gained notoriety in Ireland.Fact|date=August 2008Architecture
The castle is approx 20 metres high and follows the general pattern of tower houses, stone built, essentially defensive and comprising a series of superimposed chambers. The original spiral staircase and one of the original roof beams dating from 1280, can still be seen today. Alongside the entrance door is a murder hole through which intruders could be attacked.
History & Present
During the Cromwellian invasion of 1650, it is said the castle occupants suffered a great deal and many were executed as a result. After a tumultuous history of intrusion, it was extensively restored in the 1970’s. This major focal point of Tyrrellspass is situated on the west side of the village, located in the heart of Co. Westmeath. During the early 1990s, the building was taken over and converted into a modern style restaurant. Today it operates under the name Tyrrellspass Castle Restaurant & Museum. [ [http://www.tyrrellspasscastle.com Tyrrellspass Castle Restaurant, Westmeath, Ireland - Cafe & Restaurants, Steakhouse, Bistro, Entertainment ] ] It is currently one of the busiest restaurants and venues for entertainment in Co. Westmeath, hosting medieval banquets on par with that of
Bunratty Castle Other Westmeath Castles
*
Ballinlough Castle
*Delvin Castle
*Killua Castle
* Knockdrin Castle
*Tullynally Castle References
External links
* [http://www.westmeathtourism.com/diningout.html Westmeath Tourism ]
* [http://www.virtualtourist.com/travel/Europe/Ireland/County_Westmeath/Tyrrellspass-294050/Things_To_Do-Tyrrellspass-BR-1.html#0 VirtualTourist.com/travel/Europe/Ireland/County_Westmeath/Tyrrellspass/Things_To_Do]
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