The Rock of Cashel, also known as Cashel of the Kings and St. Patrick's Rock, is a historical site located dramatically above a plain at Cashel, County Tipperary, Ireland. Wikipedia
Address: St. Patricksrock, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, Ireland
Phone: +353 62 61437
Opens soon ⋅ 9 AM
Coordinates: 52°31′12″N 7°53′24″W / 52.52000°N 7.89000°W
Founded: From 12th century
April to October: Ideal weather and fully open access to the site; greenery enhances photo ops.
Early morning or late afternoon: Best light for photography and fewer crowds.
Off-season (November to March): Quieter, but weather may be wetter and some restoration areas may be closed.
From Dublin: ~2 hours by car via M8.
From Cork: ~1 hour via M8.
From Limerick: ~1 hour via M7 and N24.
Public Transport: Buses from Cork, Dublin, and Limerick go to Cashel town (a 10-minute walk from the Rock).
13th-century Gothic cathedral with roofless grandeur and intricate stonework.
A Romanesque masterpiece dating from 1127, featuring rare medieval frescoes (advance booking required for tours inside).
Built around 1100, standing 28 meters high — the oldest structure on site.
15th-century hall where church singers lived; includes an informative visitor exhibit.
A replica of the original 12th-century cross — the base may have once marked where St. Patrick baptized King Aengus.
Overlook the Golden Vale, one of Ireland’s most fertile and scenic agricultural areas.
Hore Abbey – Atmospheric ruins just below the Rock, with great views back up to it.
Explore Cashel town – Walk its quaint streets, visit the Cashel Heritage Centre, and enjoy local cafés.
Glen of Aherlow – A scenic spot for hiking, just a short drive away.
Visit nearby Holy Cross Abbey – A restored Cistercian monastery still in use.
Luxury:
Baileys Hotel Cashel – Elegant Georgian property close to the Rock.
Cashel Palace Hotel – Recently restored 18th-century mansion with gardens and fine dining.
Mid-range/Budget:
Ashmore House B&B – Friendly and walkable to town center.
Teac Watties B&B – Cozy countryside charm with Irish breakfasts.
The Bishop’s Buttery (Cashel Palace) – Fine dining in a luxurious setting.
Chez Hans – Housed in a converted Victorian Gothic church; Irish-European fusion.
Ladyswell Restaurant – Great casual option for local dishes.
Grogan’s Café & Ice Cream Parlour – Great for lunch, snacks, and locally made treats.
The Rock of Cashel is steeped in royal and religious history, once the seat of the Kings of Munster.
Legend says St. Patrick converted King Aengus to Christianity here in the 5th century.
The architecture reflects Romanesque, Gothic, and early Christian styles.
The town celebrates its heritage through local craft shops, historical walks, and music nights in traditional pubs.