If you are an adventure enthusiast with a penchant for history, then Blarney Castle in Ireland should definitely be on your radar. You have likely heard whispers about the notorious Blarney Stone—a mythical piece of rock said to grant the “gift of gab” to those brave enough to kiss it. But here’s the catch: to reach this mysterious stone, you must be upside down from a height of 90 feet! Nervous, isn’t it?

During my research before starting this journey, I discovered the precarious position of this stone. Let me tell you, it is important to do your homework before going to such prestigious places—it ensures a smooth journey and helps you take maximum advantage of your experience.

Why 90 Feet?

After hearing about the height, my first thought was: Why 90 feet? Can’t they find a safer place? If you are eager, just buckle up because we are on an adventure to highlight every corner and cranny of Blarney Castle. By the end of our journey, you will have all the answers you are itching for.

The Legend of Blarney

What Does “Blarney” Mean?

According to the dictionary, “blarney” refers to attractive, flattering, or inspiring things—qualities often attributed to the Irish. This attractive word has an equally complicated origin.

The Tale Behind the Term

The legend goes that Queen Elizabeth I summoned McCarthy to surrender Blarney Castle; but McCarthy cleverly used charm and persuasion to delay the proceedings. He entertained the Queen and the Earl of Leicester, thus keeping the castle out of their hands. Frustrated, the Queen finally used the term “blarney” to refer to the Earl’s empty progress reports and McCarthy’s excuses—thereby enshrining the term in the Irish language. Some also say that magic intervened. McCarthy had gone to speak to the Queen under threat from the English, fearing that his lack of eloquence would cost him his land. On the road back, he happened upon an old woman, said to be a witch, who directed him to a stone at Blarney Castle. She told him that kissing it would give him the gift of gab. McCarthy went back and persuaded the Queen to his advantage.

Kissing the Blarney Stone: The Ultimate Challenge

Why Upside Down?

So, why do some people kiss the Blarney Stone upside down? First, it’s the only way to reach the stone. The stone itself is embedded in the castle wall, about six inches from the base of the rooftop. To kiss it, one must lie down flat on their back while tilting back well beyond, holding on to iron railings to prevent a fall, while marveling at the dizzying sight of the ground some ninety feet below.

To tell you the truth, I felt somewhat frightened. The castle looked so old, and I was wondering if it had withstood so many visitors. But as I walked around, I realized that my imaginations about its strength had probably been wrong. The kissing of that stone became fashionable in the 18th century, while the stone has been there since 1446.

Safety First

No worries for those petrified of heights—they will be in the hands of trained attendants guiding them through the entire safety procedure. Believe me, it is much safer than the way people used to kiss the stone earlier. People imagined tying their ankles together and then leaning back—quite a crazy thing—but it ended tragically when a tourist slipped and fell to his death. Sometimes, old things are not necessarily the better things!

Beyond the Kiss: Exploring Blarney Castle

The Majestic Structure

As I approached the castle grounds, the imposing structure immediately caught my eye. The castle itself is so gorgeous, with history dating back over 600 years. Stepping inside feels like a trip through time. I vividly remember every little nook and corner from my visit last January—it was great!

I took a train from Heuston Station in Dublin and had a beautiful ride through the Irish countryside to Cork Kent Station. From there, a quick bus ride took me right to the doors of Blarney Castle. Piece of cake!

Historical Layers

This castle is surprisingly not the first one to sit on its site: there was a wooden castle in the 10th century, followed by a stone castle around 1210 A.D. The castle was razed and rebuilt by its then-owner, Cormac MacCarthy, King of Munster. This is where the Blarney Stone, supposedly many centuries old by then, began a great journey: it was incorporated into the tower as an extra fortification for the castle. The climb to the stone was a steep 127 steps up a spiral staircase—an adventure on its own! Each level had opportunities to explore rooms full of stories from the past. Stepping into each one, I could almost feel the fascinating life claimed within the confines of this fortress. The living quarter rooms were not overly large, but comfortable for their time. Good signposting along the way led to many surprises.

Rooftop Views

The views of the grounds below from the roof were breathtaking. No matter whether you are standing in line to kiss the famous Blarney Stone or simply enjoying the scenery, the great height of the castle provides some almost awe-inspiring views.

Descending by a different spiral staircase, we became increasingly excited. The fresh route offered more rooms filled with curious sights worth discovering inside Blarney Castle.

Hidden Gems of Blarney Castle

The Murder Room: Alarming in its sound and presence, the defense roofing supported its actual importance. Guards would fling rocks and weaponry on intruders through a square hole, which served as an outlet for all the defense into the castle from potential attacks.

The Witch’s Kitchen: This is not a real kitchen but a rock formation that looks like one, located near the base of the castle. It’s often featured as part of the tour around the site. Some say this was the witch from the myths from where the kissing legend started. Stories have it that she wanders free at night, and early morning listeners may catch a glimpse of dying embers in a nearby cave. Fair enough, I will return to Blarney Castle, but not around that cave!

The Herbaceous Border: Missing the Herbaceous Gallery here at Blarney Castle is not an option! 100 meters in length, the herbaceous border feels like a floral paradise. At the top flourishes an 80-meter-long rose pergola, which adds to the charm of the place. The border is filled with a mixture of herbaceous plants in summer and ablaze with autumn colors. A visit during either summer or autumn will surely leave one breathless.

Poison Garden: To be honest, I never thought I would have the chance to encounter 70 different poisonous plants in one area. These plants are planted as part of a teaching program for visitors about poisonous plants that occur in the wild and in gardens. Even the most poisonous plants are caged. Don’t worry, there are signs stating, “Do not touch, smell, or eat any plant!” Just keep your kids away from them.

Blarney House: The view from the castle’s parapet made it possible to see this magical dwelling. Primarily, Blarney House is the home of the Colthurst family, who have been owners of the estate since 1704. During the summer months, when the family goes on vacation, this house is opened to the public for tours, just about 200 meters south of the castle. Walking through it somehow feels like peering into someone’s home while they are away, but it’s worth seeing how the family syncs modern life with this historical house. The house tours commence every half hour and can be booked for €6 at the gate.

Additional Attractions

Every adventurer is captivated by the resplendent gardens and spellbinding edifices. Other attractions include the Bog Garden, Giant Rhubarb, Badger’s Cave, Druid’s Cave, the Wishing Steps, a Horse Graveyard, an ice house, and expanses of woodlands. Foremost among visitor facilities is even an exhibition court and gift shop. According to my experience, I wound up sampling some traditional food and buying some other gifts.

The Warmth of Irish Hospitality

I have visited places, but never have I come across a place where human beings are so warm and friendly. What a trip! I would rate it 10 out of 10. From the very moment you set foot, there are always smiles and stories. Such an Irish welcome. From everywhere, ears and eyes; there is the beauty of Ireland.

Summary: Your Visit to Blarney Castle

Best to Know Before You Go to Blarney Castle:

• Come Early: This action allows the traveler to enjoy the peace of the castle grounds before a throng of people arrives. Sometimes, latecomers will take hours to get up the hill.
  
  
• Shoes to Walk: Carry strong shoes with suitable bottoms that will enable you to trek up those spiral staircases, as they may not always be completely dry.
  
  
• Awareness of the Space: As the castle is a few centuries old, the spiral staircases are tight and small; and due to visitors, the way to the highest point may take a while. Even the steps would not allow turning around.
  
  
• Cash: Tickets will cost approximately €20 for adults, €16 for students and seniors (65 and older), and €9 for children aged 6-16. They may not accept credit cards for small purchases.
  
  
• Events: Search to see if any special events are coming up that would open up more places.
  
  
• Schedule Your Time: You could spend several hours just wandering the place—I assure you will love it.
  
  
• Local Cuisine: Experience their local cuisine, but you can always bring food along.
  
  
• Camera Ready: Have your camera ready—you are going to want to capture every single moment of this magical adventure!
  
  

The Irish may have a trait or an inherited talent that we either possess or do not have, but there is one sure way of acquiring it. So, in the course of history, millions have come to Blarney Castle—Winston Churchill, Mick Jagger, the Simpsons, and many more. Surely some believe that the kiss of the stone has endowed Winston Churchill with his eloquence, thus helping him become British Prime Minister in 1940. So, when would you be up for a shot?