The rectangular tower house, measuring roughly 6.8 metres east to west and 4.5 metres north to south with walls 1.3 metres thick, has undergone such extensive renovation that distinguishing original features from later additions requires a keen eye. What visitors see today is largely a reconstruction; the crenellations crowning the four storey structure are Victorian fantasies, whilst the arrow loops, some entirely decorative rather than defensive, and the arched windows all date from various periods of enthusiastic restoration. The exterior’s pebble dash coating further obscures the building’s medieval bones.

The castle gained its current fairy tale appearance during the Victorian era when it was expanded with what architectural historian Bence-Jones described as a “slightly Ruskinian Gothic Victorian addition”, a two storey structure that speaks to the 19th century’s romantic fascination with medieval architecture. This addition sits within extensively landscaped grounds that transform what was once a defensive stronghold into something more akin to a Gothic revival estate. The interior has been completely modernised, with original floor levels altered to suit contemporary needs rather than medieval living arrangements.

The castle’s transformation from private residence to public good came through its last private owner, W. G. Weston, who presented it to the Irish State. Rather than becoming a museum or heritage site, Barretstown found new life when the State leased both castle and grounds to the Barretstown Gang Camp Fund, an organisation dedicated to helping sick children. This unexpected turn means that a structure built for defence in medieval times now serves as a place of healing and joy, its reconstructed battlements watching over children at play rather than approaching enemies.