Built sometime in the 16th century, this tower house represents one of the last gasps of medieval castle building in Ireland. Unlike the grand stone fortresses of earlier centuries, this compact defensive structure was likely constructed by a local Gaelic family or merchant seeking to control trade along Ireland’s longest river. The castle’s strategic position allowed its occupants to monitor ships passing through the estuary, though its modest size suggests it served more as a fortified residence than a major military stronghold.

The castle itself is a typical Irish tower house; a vertical stone dwelling that provided both comfort and security during turbulent times. Standing approximately four storeys high, it features the characteristic thick walls, narrow windows, and vaulted ceilings common to such structures. The ground floor would have been used for storage, whilst the upper floors contained the living quarters, complete with fireplaces and garde robes. Despite centuries of Atlantic storms and neglect, much of the structure remains intact, offering visitors a tangible connection to Ireland’s late medieval past.

Scattery Island itself has a much longer history than its castle, with monastic ruins dating back to the 6th century when St Senan founded a religious community here. The castle forms part of this remarkable archaeological landscape, which includes several churches, a round tower, and an ancient graveyard. Today, the island is uninhabited save for the occasional day tripper arriving by boat from Kilrush marina, making it an atmospheric place to explore these layers of Irish history whilst surrounded by the waters of the Shannon.