This 16th-century tower house was built by the O’Brien clan, who controlled much of County Clare during the medieval period. The castle’s strategic position allowed its inhabitants to monitor boat traffic along the lake whilst maintaining defensive advantages; any approaching enemies would have to navigate the treacherous shoreline before mounting an assault on the fortified structure.

The tower house follows a typical Irish design of the period, rising four storeys with thick limestone walls that taper as they ascend. Murder holes above the entrance, narrow arrow slits, and a machicolation at roof level reveal its defensive purpose, whilst the remains of a bawn wall suggest the castle once enclosed a larger compound. Inside, visitors can still trace the outline of the great hall, private chambers, and a spiral staircase carved into the corner walls. The structure survived Cromwell’s campaign through Ireland relatively intact, though it was abandoned by the 18th century as more comfortable residences became fashionable amongst the landed gentry.

Today, Feenish Castle stands as a compelling reminder of clan warfare and territorial control in medieval Clare. The site is accessible via a small lane off the R352, though visitors should take care as the structure is unmaintained and portions of the upper floors have collapsed. The peninsula setting remains remarkably atmospheric, particularly when winter storms send waves crashing against the rocks below, evoking the isolation and strategic importance that once made this remote tower house a coveted stronghold.