Top 7 Castles around Bray
Castles around Bray offer a glimpse into Ireland's rich history and diverse architectural heritage. Situated in County Wicklow, Bray is known for its scenic coastal location and proximity to historical estates and ruins. The area provides opportunities to explore medieval structures and grand country houses, set against a backdrop of natural landscapes. This region combines historical exploration with accessible walking routes and natural beauty.
Best castles around Bray
- The most popular castles is Cormatin Castle, a castle that can be visited for its gardens and interior, featuring a monumental stone staircase and a Louis XIII apartment. Outside, a large boxwood labyrinth, a green theater, ponds, and flowerbeds are present.
- Another must-see spot is Sercy Castle, a castle with a Romanesque chapel. Visitors can expect to see one of the best preserved medieval castles in the region, known for its rich history and picturesque surroundings.
- Visitors also love Brancion Castle, an essential crossing point with a castle overlooking the surrounding countryside. This historical site offers a beautiful panorama and a village located at height.
- Bray is known for its medieval tower houses and grand country estates. The area offers a variety of historical sites to explore, from ancient ruins to stately homes with expansive gardens.
- The castles around Bray are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 220 upvotes and 64 photos shared.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Cormatin Castle
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Sercy Castle
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Château de Gros Chigy
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Located on the hillside, between two hamlets, it is a castle whose buildings are grouped together and form a quadrilateral around a central courtyard. The entrance is framed by two round towers pierced by archers, and was formerly equipped with a drawbridge.
It will serve as a hotel, the guest rooms are almost finished.
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Brancion Castle
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La Serrée Castle
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Tips from the Community
Fantastic example of the development of military architecture from the 10th to the 14th century. Opening hours: The castle is open daily from April 1st to November 15th. Visiting hours are between 10:00 AM and 12:30 PM and from 1:15 PM to 6:30 PM. Admission prices: Admission price for adults €8 (including audio guide). For children between 5 and 16 years old, admission costs €4.
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The current complex was built in the 15th century, after a predecessor had been destroyed on the orders of the French king. The irregular quadrilateral encloses a central courtyard. The striking north entrance, visible in the picture, is flanked by two mighty round towers equipped with gun loops (archères-canonniers) and was formerly protected by a drawbridge. The complex has been a listed Monument historique since 1967. Parts of the castle have been restored and are privately used as a charming guest house (Le Gros Chigy Château) for travellers in Burgundy.
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Superb Renaissance-era castle with magnificent gardens.
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The residence of the Marquis d'Huxelles, built between 1606 and 1625, is home to the most sumptuous Louis XIII apartment preserved in France. Fireplaces, ceilings and wood panelling were painted, carved and gilded with sumptuous exuberance for the favourite of Queen Marie de Medici. Paintings, tapestries and period furniture complete this seductive evocation of "château life" at the time of the "Three Musketeers". The tour also reveals a monumental stone staircase (20 metres high), an 18th century kitchen and the opulent 1900s salons of an opera director. The garden, in the spirit of the Baroque period, offers 12 hectares of flowerbeds, a large boxwood labyrinth with aviary-belvedere, vegetable garden, green theatre, water features and remarkable trees.
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Don't miss this little perched village.
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Picnic table, or lawn on the other side of the road, for those who want to picnic with a view. Few tourists even on a long weekend!
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This castle from the beginning of the 17th century can be visited, both for its gardens and for its interior. You will notably discover a monumental stone staircase and a well-preserved Louis XIII apartment. Outside, a large boxwood labyrinth, a green theater, ponds and flower beds will delight young and old alike.
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Very pretty castle! Always has an effect when I walk past!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles and historical sites can I visit around Bray?
Around Bray, you can explore a mix of medieval ruins and grand historical estates. Oldcourt Castle offers a glimpse into a 15th-century tower house, while Kilruddery House & Gardens provides an experience of a magnificent 17th-century residence with extensive gardens. The area combines historical exploration with beautiful natural landscapes.
Are there any medieval castles to explore near Bray?
Yes, Oldcourt Castle is a notable medieval tower house located in Bray. While largely ruined, its remains offer a fascinating look into Ireland's past and the region's rich heritage. It's a valuable site for history enthusiasts interested in defensive architecture.
Can I visit a grand estate with gardens near Bray?
Absolutely. Just outside Bray, you'll find Kilruddery House & Gardens. This historic estate, home to the Brabazon family, features a stunning 17th-century house and some of Ireland's oldest gardens, designed in a classical French style. Visitors can take guided tours of the house and explore the lush grounds.
What activities can I do at Kilruddery House & Gardens?
At Kilruddery House & Gardens, you can enjoy guided tours through the ornate rooms, wander through the extensive gardens, and even picnic on the grounds. The estate also hosts seasonal events and farmers' markets, offering a comprehensive historical and horticultural experience.
Are there family-friendly historical sites around Bray?
Both Oldcourt Castle and Kilruddery House & Gardens offer family-friendly experiences. Oldcourt Castle provides an engaging historical ruin for exploration, while Kilruddery House & Gardens has expansive grounds and events that can be enjoyed by all ages.
What is the best time of year to visit castles and estates near Bray?
The best time to visit is generally during the warmer months, from spring to early autumn, when the gardens at places like Kilruddery House & Gardens are in full bloom and the weather is more favorable for exploring ruins like Oldcourt Castle and enjoying the scenic views.
Are there walking or hiking routes near these historical sites?
Yes, the Bray area is known for its scenic landscapes, offering opportunities for walking and hiking. While specific routes directly linked to the castles are not detailed here, you can find various outdoor activities nearby. For example, you can explore running trails around Bray or discover gravel biking routes in the wider region.
What kind of views can I expect when visiting castles around Bray?
Visiting Oldcourt Castle offers scenic views of the surrounding County Wicklow landscape, given its location in the hills of Bray. The grounds of Kilruddery House & Gardens also provide beautiful vistas of its meticulously designed gardens and the wider estate.
Are there any castles that are no longer standing in Bray but have historical significance?
Yes, Bray has a rich history that includes castles no longer standing. For instance, Little Bray Castle, built in 1459, and an even earlier castle by Walter de Riddlesford from 1173, no longer exist. Their sites are now part of modern developments, but they contribute to the area's historical narrative.
What do visitors say about the castles and historical sites around Bray?
Visitors appreciate the opportunity to delve into Ireland's rich history through the medieval structures and grand country houses. The komoot community has shared over 71 photos and given more than 220 upvotes, highlighting the appeal of exploring these sites set against natural landscapes.
Can I combine a visit to a castle with other outdoor activities in Bray?
Absolutely. The Bray area is ideal for combining historical exploration with outdoor pursuits. After visiting a site like Oldcourt Castle or Kilruddery House & Gardens, you can explore various MTB trails around Bray or enjoy the many walking and running routes available in the scenic County Wicklow region.
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