The historic Irish town that will enchant visitors

Cashel in Co Tipperary

Ireland is full to the brim of underrated destinations and Cashel is no exception. In fact, it is located in one of the most underrated counties in all of Ireland, Co Tipperary.

Home to a historic castle, luxury hotels, and stunning natural surrounding beauty, it would be a shame to overlook Cashel during your trip to Ireland. Here is a full guide to visiting the underrated town of Cashel, from things to do to getting there and more.

Read more: The Irish cliffside castle perched 400 feet above the Atlantic Ocean

Where is Cashel and how do I get there?

Cashel is located in Co Tipperary in the middle of Ireland. The closest airport is Shannon, which is a 1 hour and 18-minute drive away. From Dublin, you can drive to Cashel in just under two hours.

I recommend you include Cashel as part of your Irish roadtrip, making your way there from close-by stops such as Kilkenny or Carrick-on-Suir.

The Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel is perhaps the town's most famous landmark. It looks like something from a Disney film, given its position on top of a small mountain allowing the castle to stand mighty over the surrounding landscape.

This cluster of medieval buildings includes a round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, an abbey, the Hall of the Vicars Choral, and a fifteenth-century Tower House. There is fascinating history to be learned here and it would be a shame not to visit this iconic sight when in Ireland.

Cashel Folk Village

Cashel Folk Village is a multi-award-winning museum that takes visitors on a journey through various stages of Irish history. Rooms and exhibits here focus on things like the 1916 Easter Rising, the Irish Famine, Traveller life, and religion.

It is a fascinating look at not only significant events in Irish history but also what life was like for people in Ireland throughout the centuries.

Stunning walks

Cashel and its surrounding areas contain some seriously stunning country walks. Taking o these trails is a great way to disconnect from modern life while you breathe in fresh Irish country air.

Some of the best walks include the High King Loop, Knockanroe Woods, Glengarra Woods, and the Clare Glens Loop.

Cashel Heritage Centre and Museum

A great place to start with your Cashel explorations is to head to the Cashel Heritage Centre and Musem. Admission is free and the museum houses the Charters of Cashel, King Charles II 1663, and James II 1687, all on permanent display.

There is also a lovely little craft shop that has local crafts including Farney Castle Cermanics, a large selection of sweaters, hats, scarves, and books. It is in the middle of the town, meaning you'll easily find great places to eat and drink around here.

Hore Abbey

Hore Abbey is a ruined Cistercian monastery near the Rock of Cashel and is a must-visit for history buffs when in Tipperary. Hore Abbey was founded in 1272 and the ruins are comprised of a cruciform church, tower, square cloister, and living quarters.