Why Do You Kiss the Blarney Stone Upside Down
If you’re an adventure seeker with Ireland on your travel list, chances are you’ve heard about Blarney Castle—or at least the legendary Blarney Stone. This mystical stone is said to grant the “gift of gab,” giving those who kiss it the ability to speak with eloquence and charm.
But here’s the catch: kissing the stone isn’t as simple as leaning in for a quick peck. You have to do it while hanging upside down from a height of about 90 feet! Sounds intense, right?
During my research, I discovered this daring detail (pro tip: always research before a trip—it helps you make the most of your adventure!). My first thought? Why 90 feet? Couldn’t they have placed it somewhere safer?
If you’re just as curious as I was, get ready—we’re diving deep into the history, legends, and mysteries of Blarney Castle! By the end of this journey, you’ll have all the answers you’ve been looking for. Let’s get started.
Why is it called “Blarney”?
According to the dictionary, “blarney” means charming, persuasive speech—a trait often linked to the Irish. But where did this term come from? The story behind it is fascinating.
Legend has it that Queen Elizabeth I demanded that McCarthy, the Lord of Blarney, surrender his castle. Rather than refusing outright, he used wit and clever words to delay the negotiations, successfully holding onto his land. Frustrated by his constant excuses, the Queen is said to have exclaimed that his reports were “blarney,” and thus, the word entered the language.
Some say magic played a role too. As the story goes, McCarthy, worried about losing his castle, met an old woman—possibly a witch—who told him about a special stone within Blarney Castle. If he kissed it, she promised, he would gain the power of persuasion. Whether legend or truth, McCarthy managed to charm his way to victory, and today, visitors from around the world kiss the stone in hopes of gaining the same skill.
But why kiss the stone upside down?
Simple—it’s the only way to reach it! The Blarney Stone is built into the castle wall, slightly below the rooftop base. To kiss it, visitors must lie on their backs, lean backward, and grip an iron railing for support—all while taking in the dizzying view from 90 feet above the ground.
I won’t lie—I was a bit nervous. The castle is ancient, and I couldn’t help but wonder if it could handle the weight of so many visitors. But once I stepped inside, I realized my fears were unfounded. While the tradition of kissing the stone only dates back to the 18th century, the stone itself has been part of the castle since 1446.
Thankfully, safety measures have improved over time. Today, trained attendants ensure that visitors are securely positioned, but in the past, the process was much riskier. Believe it or not, people once had their ankles tied together before being lowered down to kiss the stone! That changed after a rumor spread that a visitor had fallen to his death—proving that some traditions are better left in the past.
Blarney Castle: More Than Just the Stone
If heights aren’t your thing, don’t worry—there’s so much more to explore at Blarney Castle!
My journey began with a scenic train ride from Dublin’s Heuston Station to Cork Kent Station, followed by a short bus ride straight to the castle. As I arrived, the towering structure immediately caught my eye. Though the current castle dates back to 1446, it wasn’t the first to stand on this land. A wooden fortress was originally built here in the 10th century, later replaced by a stone structure in 1210. When that was destroyed, Cormac MacCarthy, the King of Munster, built the castle that still stands today.
Reaching the famous stone requires climbing 127 spiral steps, an adventure in itself. Along the way, I stopped in various rooms, each with its own history. One of the most intriguing was:
The Murder Room – Despite its eerie name, no murders actually took place here. Instead, this room had a square hole through which guards would drop stones and weapons on intruders. It was a key defense strategy in medieval times!
The Witch’s Kitchen – Near the castle base, this rock formation looks like a kitchen and is tied to local legends. Some say a witch once lived here, and if you visit early in the morning, you might even spot the dying embers of her fire in a nearby cave. I, for one, won’t be going near that cave anytime soon!
The Herbaceous Border – A must-visit for nature lovers! Stretching 100 meters, this vibrant floral paradise includes an 80-meter rose pergola, blooming beautifully in the summer and transforming into a colorful wonderland in autumn.
And that’s not all—Blarney Castle sits on 60 acres of breathtaking gardens, including the mysterious Poison Garden, a Fern Garden, an Ice House, and lush Arboretums. Yes, you read that right—a Poison Garden! But that’s a story for another day.
One thing’s for sure: Blarney Castle is far more than just a legendary stone. Whether you’re there for history, adventure, or simply a beautiful day out, it’s an experience you won’t forget.
The Poison Garden
I never imagined I’d find myself surrounded by 70 different toxic plant species, all carefully arranged in one place! The Poison Garden at Blarney Castle isn’t just a collection of deadly flora—it’s an educational experience designed to inform visitors about poisonous plants found in both the wild and cultivated gardens. The most dangerous ones are even kept securely behind cages.
If you’re visiting Blarney Castle, this eerie yet fascinating spot is a must-see. But don’t worry—clear warning signs remind you, “Do not touch, smell, or eat any plant!” Just be sure to keep an eye on your little ones!
Blarney House: A Fairytale Estate
As I stood atop the castle, my eyes were drawn to a stunning mansion nestled within the landscape. How could I possibly miss this architectural gem?
Blarney House, a fairytale-like residence, has been home to the Colthurst family since 1704. Though it remains a private residence, it opens for public tours during the summer months while the family is away on holiday.
Located just 200 meters south of the castle, it’s an easy and scenic walk. Stepping inside felt a bit like wandering through someone’s home while they were out, but it was an extraordinary experience nonetheless. The house seamlessly blends historical charm with modern-day living, offering a unique glimpse into aristocratic life.
If you plan to visit, house tours begin every half-hour, and an additional ticket (€6) is required at the entrance. Trust me—it’s worth it!
More Hidden Treasures at Blarney Castle
Beyond the famous stone and the grand castle, Blarney’s sprawling grounds hold even more to discover. Some highlights include:
- The Bog Garden – A lush, water-rich landscape teeming with greenery.
- Giant Rhubarb – Oversized plants that make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a fantasy world.
- Badger’s Cave & Druid’s Cave – Mysterious caverns steeped in legend.
- Wishing Steps – A magical staircase said to grant wishes if climbed with your eyes closed.
- The Horse Graveyard – A historical burial site for the estate’s noble steeds.
- The Ice House & Woodlands – Perfect for a peaceful nature walk.
For those looking for a break, the exhibition rooms, café, and souvenir shop provide a perfect way to wind down. I ended my visit by indulging in some traditional Irish food and picking up a few keepsakes to remember this incredible adventure.
A Journey to Remember
As I made my way back to Dublin, one thing lingered in my mind—the warmth of Irish hospitality. Every step of my journey was met with smiles, stories, and a genuine welcome that made my trip truly unforgettable. If I had to rate my experience? A solid 10 out of 10.
Essential Tips for Visiting Blarney Castle
Planning your own adventure? Here are some must-know tips:
- Arrive Early – The castle gets crowded quickly, and waiting times can stretch to hours if you’re late.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes – The spiral staircases are steep, narrow, and can be slippery. Sturdy shoes with good grip are a lifesaver!
- Claustrophobia Alert – The staircases are tight, and there’s no turning back once you start climbing. If small spaces make you uncomfortable, prepare yourself.
- Carry Cash – Entry fees are around €20 for adults, €16 for students and seniors (65+), and €9 for kids (6–16). Some vendors may not accept cards for small purchases.
- Check for Special Events – Seasonal events and guided tours can offer exclusive access to hidden areas.
- Allow Plenty of Time – Plan for at least a few hours to explore the castle and grounds fully—you won’t regret it!
- Try the Local Cuisine – There are dining options on-site, but you’re welcome to bring your own food for a picnic.
- Bring a Camera – You’ll want to capture every magical moment of this breathtaking experience!
The Gift of Gab: Myth or Reality?
The legend of the Blarney Stone has lured millions of visitors over the centuries, including Winston Churchill, Mick Jagger, and even The Simpsons!
Some say that kissing the stone gave Churchill the eloquence that helped him become British Prime Minister in 1940. Could it do the same for you? There’s only one way to find out—when are you planning your visit?
So, what do you think—would you kiss the Blarney Stone?
