About Lismore Castle

Steeped in History

Built on the site of a 7^th century Abbey, the castle was fortified by Prince John (future King of England) in 1185, but continued to be used as the Irish Bishop’s Palace. For much of the medieval period Lismore was in the hands of the Earls of Desmond, and for a short while was owned by Sir Walter Raleigh, who sold the estate to Richard Boyle, 1^st Earl of Cork in 1602.

The Earl made Lismore Castle his principal residence and undertook major rebuilding work, transforming it into one of the largest houses in Ireland.

In 1753, Lismore passed to The Earl’s descendant Charlotte and her husband William Cavendish, the future 4^th Duke of Devonshire. It has remained in the Devonshire family ever since.

In the 1930s and early 40s, Lord Charles Cavendish (great-uncle of the present Duke) made Lismore his home, along with his wife Adele Astaire. After Charles’s death, Adele made regular visits with her second husband, Kingman Douglass, sometimes bringing her brother Fred.  An array of high profile visitors stayed at the castle during the 20^th century, including members of the British royal family, film stars, artists, poets and President John F. Kennedy

The Book of Lismore

In 2020, the 12^th Duke of Devonshire donated The Book of Lismore to University College Cork, where it is now the centrepiece of the University’s large and significant collection of Gaelic manuscripts. Created in the 15^th century at Kilbrittain, Co. Cork, The Book of Lismore was discovered in 1814, hidden inside a castle wall. It contains accounts of Irish saints, texts on the topic of kingship, an Irish translation of the Travels of Marco Polo, and accounts of the exploits of the popular mythological hero Fion Mac Cumhaill.  It is regarded as one of the great books of Ireland.

Exclusively Yours

Today, Lismore Castle is under the stewardship of the 12^th Duke’s son and daughter-in-law, Lord and Lady Burlington.

Exclusively yours for the duration of your visit, the castle is the perfect place for groups of family or friends to enjoy in one of Ireland’s most sought-after and evocative settings.  On hand throughout is the family’s personal team, with everyone from the butler, cook and gardener ensuring a warm Irish welcome and a memorable stay.