Trim Castle

Trim Castle is the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland. Built by Hugh de Lacy (and son Walter).  Construction started in 1172 and took over 30 years to be completed. It was protected by a ditch, curtain wall and moat.  It was in a very strategic location, sitting on raised ground overlooking the very navigable River Boyne.  It’s seen its share of battles also including the occupation by one of Cromwell’s armies back in 1649.  It’s had too many owners to mention.  In 1993 the last owner, Lord Dunsany sold the land and buildings to the state, retaining only river access and fishing rights.

It's one of those places most tour companies visit due to its proximity to Dublin. It’s also one of many locations used in filming Braveheart.

We have seen a slight drop in the tourism trade, which for us is a good thing (less crowds).  Probably not so much for Ireland.  It amuses me that we now consider ourselves locals and not tourists.  

I had investigated Trim Castle on line so had an idea what to expect, we had already chosen NOT to buy the tickets for the tour of the Keep. Even though it's nicely intact on the outside, it's very much like what we found at Portumna Castle – inside just a shell of a building.  So not much to see.  I usually find the grounds much more interesting anyway, especially when they are rustic in nature.  Trim Castle is the kind of site where the city has taken control of the ruins, charging a fee for entry, charging a fee for a tour and chaining off areas that might pose the slightest bit of danger. You’ve got specific gravel paths to walk on, manicured lawns and they were even plucking the moss off the outside of the castle walls. To me this was removing character and charm, to them probably required upkeep of the ruins.

We found a great little path on the outside of the walls walked around the River Boyne and did some exploring.   Across the river on top of the hill sits the ruins (one wall) of the Yellow Steeple of St. Mary’s Abby.  As we strolled over the foot path, glancing downriver we could see the oldest “in-use” bridge in Ireland, built in the late 1300’s.  I was not expecting to see this here, so it was a great find.

So, are you tired of castles yet?  NAW -Me neither, just a few more dozen (or so) to go. 

PHOTO ALBUM