Menlo Castle, Galway

Menlo Castle, also known as Menlough Castle or Blake's Castle, is a historic 16th century castle located in the village of Menlo. The castle was built on the site of a mid-16th century tower house, which was recorded as being occupied by Thomas Colman in 1574. The Blake family later took ownership of the castle and expanded it to include a two-bay, four-storey block during the 18th century, along with a square turreted structure on the eastern end of the building.

The Blakes were known as the richest family in Galway in 1592 and owned extensive property in the counties of Mayo, Clare, and Galway. During their time at Menlo Castle, the Blakes hosted the "Maying in Menlo" festival, where villagers were invited to the castle grounds.

For several centuries, Menlo Castle served as the home of the Blake family until it was destroyed by a devastating fire in the early 20th century. In 1910, while Sir Valentine Blake (14th baronet) and Lady Blake were away in Dublin, a fire broke out in the castle. Unfortunately, their disabled daughter, Eleanor, was never found and is presumed to have died in the fire. After the fire, the castle was left to ruin, and the Blake estate was divided by the Land Commission in 1923.

The castle site and its surrounding areas were eventually acquired by Galway City Council through a compulsory purchase order in July 2000.

Today, the ruins of Menlo Castle serve as a popular tourist attraction in Galway, offering visitors a glimpse into Ireland's rich history and the tragic story of the Blake family. Despite its ruined state, the castle still retains its distinctive charm and provides a picturesque backdrop for visitors exploring the banks of the River Corrib.