Ballygriffey Castle Ruins On 0.7ha
Folio CE3481F
Ballygriffey South
Ruan
Co Clare

For Sale by Online Auction on Wednesday on the 30th of September 2026

Sherry FitzGerald McMahon are delighted to offer for sale a truly unique piece of County Clare's built heritage at Ballygriffey, Ruan, Co. Clare. Folio CE3481F | Approx. 0.70 hectares (1.73 acres) Set on approximately 0.70 hectares (1.73 acres), Ballygriffey Castle comprises the substantial ruins of a late medieval towerhouse, believed to have been constructed sometime between 1450 and 1500 and once home to the O'Griffey clan. The property comprises Folio CE3481F and is conveniently located adjacent to the residence at Eircode V95 E02K. The lands are bounded to the south by the Poulacorry River, adding considerably to the character and setting of this historic property. Ballygriffey Castle is described as a detached, two-bay, five-storey late medieval O'Griffey towerhouse, retaining a number of important architectural features including cut-stone door and window openings and a stone staircase. Of particular interest is a secret room at ground-floor level, providing a fascinating glimpse into the design and history of the original towerhouse. The castle is included on the Record of Protected Structures by Clare County Council and is also a Recorded Monument, reference CL025-203001, reflecting its significant architectural, archaeological and historical importance. Today, the property stands in a ruinous condition and any proposals for conservation, restoration or development would be subject to the necessary statutory consents and consultation with the relevant authorities. The property enjoys an attractive rural setting while remaining within easy reach of Ruan village, a highly regarded village in north Clare. Ennis, the county town of Clare, is also within convenient driving distance, providing an extensive range of shops, schools, restaurants, professional services and transport connections. The location offers an appealing combination of peaceful countryside and accessibility to the amenities of Ennis and the wider region. Ballygriffey Castle represents a rare opportunity to acquire an important piece of County Clare history, together with approximately 0.70 hectares (1.73 acres) in an attractive riverside setting. Its distinctive medieval character, association with the O'Griffey clan and status as both a Protected Structure and Recorded Monument make this a particularly unusual property offering.

The castle is unsafe to enter.

Medieval towerhouse dating from c.1450–1500
Approx. 0.70 hectares (1.73 acres)
Former home of the O’Griffey clan
Five-storey historic ruins
Protected Structure & Recorded Monument
Bounded by the Poulacorry River
Close to Ruan and Ennis

Strategically located between the University cities of Limerick and Galway, and within 20 mins of Shannon International Airport, the town of Ennis has enjoyed significant population growth and prosperity in recent years. Ennis is home to an abundance of amenities and facilties, making it a centre of employment, not just for the local population, but also for those in the surrounding localities.

Ennis was founded by the Franciscan Friars in 1240 A.D. as a centre of learning, and it has now progressed into a technology focused "Information Age Town".  Ennis is the capital town of Clare and as such is the centre of a County steeped in traditional music and sport.