Kildavnet Castle, also called Carrick Kildavnet Castle, is a fine example of a small 15th century fortified tower situated beside an inlet from the sea. Gaelic chieftains at the time copied Norman designs when constructing their tower houses.

While it's associated with the famous pirate queen Grace O'Malley (Granuaile), the castle was most likely built by her ancestors in about 1429. Grace is thought to have been born around 1530 and lived until 1603. This tower is just one of many such strongholds that she established along the western seaboard when she and her followers dominated the waters during the late 16th century.

This is a finely preserved keep with the remains of a boat slipway at the back. The castle is about 12 meters in height (about 40 feet) and has three levels, including a traditional vaulted ceiling.

The location of the tower was of strategic importance. Situated at the mouth of Achill Sound, residents could protect the passage that connects Clew Bay with Blacksod Bay. Today Achill Lifeboat Station is located nearby and follows on the tradition of protecting the region.

While the castle is closed to visitors, the area is picturesque, and the nearby Kildavent Church and

Graveyard are worth a visit. The church is thought to have been constructed as early as the 12th century, the stone church of which may have replaced and early timber structure dating back to the 8th century. The graveyard contains early medieval gravestones, and contains two monuments to two of Achill's greatest tragedies - the Clew Bay Drowning of 1894 and the Kirkintilloch Bothy Fire of 1937.

~ Free car parking available
~ limited access to area