Ireland is a place where many realities and myths merge to give many iconic landmarks and locations. However, nothing beats the mysterious Blarney Stone. Its location within the ancient walls of the Blarney Castle creates an allure that is hard to beat.
Every year there are hundreds and thousands of people from around the world pay a visit to kiss this stone. However, why is it that way? In this article, we’ll explore the reasons and take you back to the roots of it. So sit down, and let’s take a virtual tour to this Irish tradition. Let’s start!
Why Should You Kiss the Blarney Stone Upside Down?
We should kiss the stone upside down because this tradition resonates with the history of the battles of Blarney Castle. It requires people to lean backward over a high drop while holding the iron rails.
This unique position captures the essence of working to obtain the stone’s rewards and adds a new flair and thrill to the ritual. The practice of kissing the stone that way has existed for centuries, combining challenge, folklore, and an unforgettable experience, making it an iconic part of visiting the Blarney Stone.
Although kissing the Blarney Stone in that way may seem unusual, it’s part of the culture. When I first did it, I looked at the people who had done it before me and wondered, “Why would people go through that length to kiss a stone?” However, I understood its peak significance after doing it on my own.
This act of daring is more than just a physical feat! It’s a symbolic gesture of embracing Irish culture. It allows you to let go of inhibitions and taking a leap of faith. The upside-down kiss has become an integral part of the experience, representing the magic and boldness that define the Blarney Stone’s legend.
How to Kiss the Blarney Stone in Ireland
So, let’s get into the exciting part! How to kiss the Blarney stone? Performing this activity takes a bit of preparation and courage. At first, you make your way up to the staircase and make your way up to the stone. You’ll take a brief moment to look at the beauty of this stone and then prepare to go forward and kiss it.
To kiss the stone, you will have to recline backward over a gap in the parapet. It might sound scary, but trust me, I’ve been there. However, some guides are helping you at every step of the way. Once you are good with the angle, you lean forward to kiss the stone. Don’t stay in that position for so long, though, as it might make you a little dizzy!
The entire process is smooth and well-organized, so that you won’t have a problem conducting this activity, no matter your age and size. But, I would highly suggest people with neck injuries, arthritis, and anything related to it to avoid it.
Blarney Stone Ireland History
The tradition of kissing the Blarney stone goes way back in history. There are many theories of its origin. The name “Blarney” means flattery or nonsense, which came from Queen Elizabeth and McCarthy‘s family after an incident that happened between them.
The Queen sent the Earl of Leicester to capture Blarney Castle, but the persuasive McCarthy kept delaying him with clever talk. The Queen got frustrated by the Earl’s constant reports of no progress and was exclaiming about his updates being nothing but “Blarney.
Some accounts link it to the Stone of Scone, a sacred object used in Scottish coronations. Others suggest it was brought to Ireland by the Crusaders or that it was a gift from the goddess Clíodhna, who rewarded Cormac McCarthy with eloquence for helping her in a time of need.
Some reports also show that the stone was used like a pillow by Jacob, who was dreaming of a ladder that would extend up to heaven.
Despite its origin, the stone has been a symbol of tradition since the 18th century, when it first started. Its legacy has been cemented by centuries of visitors.
Blarney Stone: Symbol of Irish Spirit
The significance of this stone goes far beyond it being just a rock. It’s a deep part of the Irish culture. It is said that the stone holds special powers that allow the people to speak with charm and persuasion, similar to the history of the Blarney Stone.
This gift of the stone is deeply rooted within the Irish people and their identity, which brings their poetry, stories, and scriptures to light. So, when you kiss the stone, you end up being a part of the rich traditions and connect with the piece of this iconic charm of history.
Where is the Blarney Stone in Ireland?
The Blarney Stone is located in Blarney Castle, a short distance from Cork City in southern Ireland. It was built in 1446 by the McCarthy of the Musketry dynasty.
This castle is an integral part of the Irish culture. It is surrounded by lush gardens, impressive streams, and beautiful pathways, which create an atmosphere that is captivating and exciting.
To locate the stone, you should go up the castle’s spiral staircase, which will take you to the very top of the battlement. There, on the parapet wall, you’ll come across the iconic Blarney stone. Honestly, when I first saw it, I was blown away. It’s a thrilling activity that you must try here on your visit to Ireland.
How Far is the Blarney Stone from Dublin?
If you’re in Dublin looking for the Blarney Stone, it’s approximately 220 kilometers or 137 miles southwest of the city. If you’re going by car, it’ll take around 3 hours to get there. If you’re using public transport, it’ll take you to Cork City and from there to Blarney Village.
However, we suggest getting a tour guide if you don’t want the hassle of doing the mind mapping. They also add an extra layer of flair to your trip and may take you to the hidden quirks which you may not find.
How to Get Blarney Stone Tickets?
Even before you kiss the stone, you must secure the tickets. The stone isn’t a place of its own; it’s at the Blarney Castle. Head over to the official Blarney Castle website to buy tickets. It’s a smooth process and can make your process a lot smoother.
Even when I was in Ireland, I bought the tickets online. It’s a life savior if it’s peak season. However, if you’re making an impromptu trip, grabbing tickets on arrival is an option, too. But be aware of the insane rush you might have to face during the holidays.
How Much Does It Cost To Kiss the Blarney Stone?
When I was in Cork going for the Blarney Stone, I remember paying around 17 pounds for the castle. However, in recent years, the prices have changed. Here’s the pricing as of 2024:
- Adults: 22 pounds
- Seniors over 65 years old: 17 pounds
- Teenagers (under 17, must be under adult’s supervision): 10 pounds
- Kids under 6 can travel for free.
There are plenty of discounts if you go there as a family or a group of people. For example, a family of four can get tickets for 55 pounds. Also, if you go with a tour guide, they can snag lower prices to see, too.
The pricing also depends on where you’re purchasing it. Is it online or on arrival? But rest assured, it will stay at the range of 22-24 pounds for an adult. It includes access to Blarney Castle and its beauty, where people can explore the site and take part in the famous tradition of kissing the stone.
The Adventure of Kissing the Blarney Stone in Ireland
Here let me share my experience of the Blarney Stone. It is a quick getaway to a thrilling adventure. Before that, let’s talk about the Blarney Castle. It’s beautiful.
The antique aura of it makes for its mysterious appearance. Strolling through it is a treat to the eyes. It’s got all these caves and dungeons that show you the history of the battle. It also has a poison garden, which by the name may not be poisonous, but the castle is filled with the lush greens around.
Now, let’s move on to the main star of the show: the Blarney Stone. The climb to the top of Blarney Castle is steep, with its spiral staircase narrowing as you go up. Once you reach it, however, the view is breathtaking. The rolling green fields of the Irish countryside stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a euphoria of joy before the monumental joy.
The anticipation of the kiss grew. As I approached the stone, a guide helped me. To kiss it, I had to lie on my back and lean backward over an open gap.
It was so scary watching the cold air mask my face through the height. By holding the iron support, you make your way to kiss the stone softly. With this, you blend yourself with the tradition of the centuries. The stone is cleaned throughout every kiss, so you won’t have centuries’ worth of germs on your lips if that’s one of your concerns!
Overall, I loved the experience, and everyone should try it when they visit Cork.
Kiss the Blarney Stone in Ireland for Luck and Charm
A fun fact about this Stone is that people think this kiss does more than just make you good with words. It brings good fortune, self-assurance, and success in whatever you do. From nailing an interview to giving a speech or just having a great chat, tons of people say the stone has a magical effect on them.
This ritual is about tapping into Irish roots as much as it is about changing yourself. It’s a bit of fun with real meaning that shows off the quick wit and humor the Irish are famous for. Besides visiting Blarney stone if you carry your Cat, then you should learn how to adopt a Cat in Ireland that covers everything you need to know.
Blarney Stone Cork Ireland: The Heart of Southern Hospitality
Cork, the lively city near Blarney Castle, is an ideal starting point for exploring the area. You have to be here first to reach Blarney Castle! Cork is a beautiful place popular for its welcoming residents, bustling bars, and tasty food, which shows a raw side of Ireland.
Many tourists combine their journey to the Blarney Stone with a walk through the English Market, a tour of St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, or a picturesque ride along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Undoubtedly, Blarney Castle stands out as a main attraction in County Cork. Its long history and beautiful surroundings draw in travelers all year. The village of Blarney, with its cute shops and cafes, creates a warm atmosphere. This makes the whole experience feel like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale.
Blarney Stone Irish Pub: Ireland’s Everywhere!
If you can’t make it to Ireland, you can still get a taste of its magic at Blarney Stone-themed Irish pubs across the globe. These spots capture the cozy feel and friendliness of authentic Irish pubs. You’ll find good food, live tunes, and decorations that bring Ireland to mind.
Having a drink at one of these pubs is a nice way to honor the Blarney Stone, even if you’ll have to wait to kiss it in person. One of the pubs that I recently went to was in Vancouver, and it’s one of the longest-running pubs in the world. So, if you live nearby, do pay a visit!
Tips For Visiting Blarney Castle
Going to Blarney Castle is a joyful experience for anyone, and here are some tips to help you navigate through it smoothly. These tips are tried and tested by yours truly so that you can do these for a fantastic trip!
Arrive Early!
This is a tip that will save you countless hours to explore the Castle. Arrive early to avoid the massive crowd it tends to have during peak hours, which is usually around afternoon-evening. Also, during the holidays there are more crowds too. We suggest arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
Even if you have online tickets, try to check in early so there is no confusion. There have been cases where people who took online tickets had to wait hours in line to get verified. Don’t let that be you!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Exploring the place can get hectic. With so many parts of the castle to explore, you might have to do a lot of walking around. Your inner Sofia Vergara may wish to walk around in heels to stay in fashion, but your feet will have a hard time coping with it. So, opt for comfortable shoes like sandals or shoes with a comfortable sole to make it easier.
Go According to Weather
The Irish weather can play mysterious cards during your exploration. So, pack smart and take clothing that can accommodate you with weather changes.
When I visited, it was pouring down heavily when I was exploring the caves, even though it was supposed to be a bright, sunny day! So, take prep for any weather uncertainties.
Explore the Gardens
There’s more to the Stone! The gardens at Blarney Castle offer 60 acres of stunning greenery, magical pathways, and unique attractions like the Poison Garden and Rock Close.
Don’t just go for the kissing; explore the moments before it, too. Explore the gardens, look at the historic stories, and immerse yourself in the Irish traditions to make this experience worthwhile!
Savor the Blarney Stone Experience
As we told you to immerse yourself in the castle, the same applies when you’re kissing the Blarney Stone. Sure, it involves a wait; however, be patient. Others are going for the same reason as you so be mindful of it.
Take a moment to explore the view as you wait your turn. Once it’s your turn, take a nice look at the stone, touch it, feel the textures of the stone, and give it a peck. Ask a guide to help you if you face any issues.
Clean Around
For the clean freaks out there, you may choose to wipe your lips with a disinfectant wipe before going into the kiss and after. The stone is cleaned at every interval, but you can take this extra step to be safe. However, make sure to use a lip balm to moisturize the lip as the wipe makes the lip really dry.
Check for Special Events
Blarney Castle hosts various events throughout the year. There may be plays talking about the history of the castle or any seasonal celebrations there may be. Check the castle’s official website before your stay to see if anything special is happening during your vacation.
Take a Look At the Gift Shop
Like any historic place, the Blarney Castle also has a gift shop where there is a range of souvenirs and crafts to look at and buy. You can buy some for yourself to keep as a memory or take as a gift for your friends and family.
Host a Picnic!
The natural surroundings of the castle make it a special place to host a picnic. There are cafés to explore, but having a picnic is far more memorable. It can also help speed up the waiting process for your turn at the Blarney Stone. You can enjoy a nice meal and savor the beautiful scenery that the place offers.
Final Thought on the Blarney Stone
And there you have it, a detailed guide into the world of Blarney Stone and its wonders. I hope with this blog, you can take in a slice of the experiences that I had during my visit.
Paying a visit to Blarney Castle deserves a spot in your top places to see before you die list, and hopefully, this can convince you to take the trip finally!
What are some of the things you’ve experienced at the Blarney Castle and the iconic Stone? Let us know! We would love to hear your stories about it, too. Thank you for reading, and we’ll see you in another exploration that Ireland waits for us to see with Dublinz.