Farney Castle

Farney Castle

The first early Norman fortification at Farney Castle, close to Holycross, in Co Tipperary was built in 1185 just some fifteen years after Richard de Clare (Strongbow) arrived in Ireland (1170) and would have consisted initially of a stout timber structure. Today this tastefully fully restored castle, is the residential family home of world renowned Knitwear and Porcelain designer Cyril Cullen, his wife Margie and their four daughters. In the converted old stables in the castle courtyard can be found Cyril's design studio, where his unique Parian porcelain designs find their desirable textured forms. Tours of Farney Castle are available daily and Harp Recitals take place in the ancient Drawing Room, by special arrangement.

Farney Castle has been recommended by the Michelin Green Guide and Marathon Coach Tours have included it in its Tour Brochure.

Review

Farney Castle has to be in my opinion one of Irelands biggest and best kept secrets. A true hidden gem in every sense of the word, and as Cyril Cullen the present owner gave me my very own personal tour, I must of said the word ‘Wow’ about fifty times!

Originally built by the Duke of Ormond, Farney Castle and it’s walls holds many secrets, all of which are made distinctively clear by Cyril whilst conducting his tour. But I have to be totally honest with you here, for me, a trip to Farney Castle isn’t just about the castle itself, it’s more about the present family. Every single member of the family is talented beyond belief. Starting with Cyril himself, a talented and stylish knitwear and now porcelain designer, this gentleman was born with style and grace, and whilst on your tour, you’ll get the full picture of just how amazing this man was and In fact still is. Then there is his wife Margie, and their four daughters, all of which have succeeded in everything they do. If you are really lucky, and if one or more of their daughters are at home, you may be lucky enough to hear them play the Irish Harp! I knew that a visit here was going to be special, but I didn’t realise just how special. I’ve said this before in this book, and I’ll say it again, a Top 100 Attraction is not about how many visitors it gets, or how famous it is, it’s about long lasting memories, if an attraction if still on your mind after you’ve left, then that it truly is a Top 100

Attraction. All in all a trip to Farney Castle is probably just as important as visiting the Blarney Stone, both will leave you feeling that whilst you were on your travels you got to experience the real Ireland!