In a corner of the Blarney Castle estate, sheltered by trees and easy to miss, lies a small cemetery for the horses kept by the castle's owners over the generations. The graves are marked by simple headstones, some with names and dates, some noting what the horse was used for.
The graveyard dates to the 19th century, when the Colthurst family occupied the castle and estate. It reflects the affection that wealthy Victorian families extended to their animals — hunting horses, carriage horses, and favourite riding mounts all received formal burial rather than disposal. A few of the inscriptions are surprisingly personal.
It's included in the general castle grounds admission and is found by following the paths south from the main castle keep. Not everyone notices it, which makes it feel like a discovery. Allow five minutes if you want to read the stones properly.