Blarney Stone (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Blarney Stone?
School-age children enjoy secret rooms, playgrounds and the Poison Garden, but parents must guard them on steep spiral stairs and tall parapets; buggy use is outdoors only.
Positives:
- Under-5s enter free: Children under five go free but may need help reaching the stone.
- On-site parking: Free car and coach parking next to the main entrance.
- Stroller-friendly gardens: Wide paths and boardwalks suit prams outside the castle tower.
Challenges:
- Narrow tower stairs: Spiral steps are steep and uneven—carry younger kids or wait your turn.
- Peak-season queues: Busy July–August may mean a line to kiss the stone.
- Slippery surfaces: Stone floors and paths get wet in rain—watch children on stairs and near water.
What is Blarney Stone?
- A limestone block embedded in the battlements of Blarney Castle’s medieval keep in County Cork
- A legendary relic reputed since the 18th century to confer eloquence upon those who kiss it
- An integral architectural element of the 15th-century tower, positioned above a 127-step spiral staircase
What is so special about Blarney Stone for with kids?
- Kids love climbing the tower and kissing the legendary stone.
- Hands-on plant spotting in the caged Poison Garden.
- Safe boardwalk paths past waterfalls and giant leaves.
- Easy lakeside picnic spots with swans and open lawns.
- Free admission for under-5s and on-site parking.
Recommended visit duration: 3-5 hours
Why 3-5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Kids need breaks between climbing the tower, exploring gardens, and picnic time by the lake.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Blarney Stone
Kiss the Blarney Stone:
Climb the 127-step tower and lean back to kiss the limestone and ‘gain the gift of the gab.’
Tip: Hold each child securely and take turns at quieter times, like midweek mornings.
Explore spiral staircase & hidden rooms:
Discover narrow stairs, the Dungeon and the old kitchen ‘kids’ room’ off the Banqueting Hall.
Tip: Point out carved fireplaces and let kids hunt for hidden doorways.
Visit the Poison Garden:
Follow the trail past mandrake, hemlock and other poisonous plants in secure cages.
Tip: Give each child a simple plant fact to spot and talk about as you walk.
Wander the Board Walk & Water Garden:
Stroll the raised wooden path past waterfalls, koi pools and giant Gunnera leaves.
Tip: Bring a small snack and let kids watch frogs and fish from safe railings.
Picnic by the lake:
Walk the 22-acre lakeside path (45 min) and relax on open lawns among swans.
Tip: Pack sandwiches or local pastries and use free picnic benches near the river.
When is the best time to visit Blarney Stone (Cork, Ireland)?
Spring brings big rhododendron blooms in the gardens; in autumn watch leaves change on the lake walk. Always pack waterproof layers and sturdy shoes.
Explore These Activities
Reviews of Blarney Stone (Cork)
Sheena Puzey
Best day out. There for almost 5 hours. Great coffee, food, toilets. Wait for the stone was an hour. I am horribly claustrophobic but had three lovely people behind me, who gave me space and encouraged me. Without my husbands and their support I couldn't have done it. It's a narrow, dark, slow walk up and for those who are not agile , it would be difficult. There is a strong rope to aid this. I...
Anj Abo
Great place for all day to stay. Lots of histories explained by boards standing outside. Fantastic, great garden. 90minutes to wait to get to the castle!!! Resigned. But outside was fantastic anyway.
Tara Elizabeth
A visit to the castle and kissing the stone is a must-do in Ireland! The castle grounds are stunning, and climbing to kiss the Blarney Stone is a fun, iconic experience. The spiral stairs are steep and narrow, but the views from the top are worth it. Don’t miss the beautiful gardens, including the one of deadly plants that can kill you, visit the rock close area and the manor house--it's more tha...
Noa Montilla Brito
It was a lovely experience. I enjoyed the tour, even though there was a long line. I loved the garden, with its impressive trees and native ornamental plants in their full splendor. This garden is definitely a great place to spend the morning, whether alone or with the family.
LullahPie
Such a nice experience, beware tho, if you're fat or weak, have any issues walking and moving, i don't recommend getting to the stone. Im 145kg and i didn't fit with my backpack at some places and i was scared i would have to walk all the way back (everyone would have to do so too), the staircase is very, so are the steps !! And they are slippery too ! The garden is very nice too ! Don't worry if ...
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 adult tickets | EUR 46 |
| 1 child ticket (6–12) | EUR 11 |
| Picnic supplies | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 67 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Blarney Stone
- Buy tickets online: Skip the ticket line and reserve child tickets at €11 each.
- Arrive at opening: Start at 9:30 AM to avoid crowds at the stone platform.
- Use site maps: Grab a free multilingual map at reception to plan your route.
Map of Blarney Stone
Address: Blarney, Cork, T23 Y598, Ireland
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About Blarney Stone
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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