Things to Know Before Kissing the Blarney Stone 

By: Leah Shoup

What is the Blarney Stone?

The Blarney Stone is a Carboniferous limestone and has various legends as far as its origins. Some say it's Jacob's Pillow or even the Stone of Ezel.

Where is the Blarney Stone?

To kiss the Blarney Stone, you’ll have to travel to Blarney Village, Ireland. Here, the legendary stone is built into the walls of the beautiful Blarney Castle.

Why do people kiss the Blarney Stone?

The Blarney Stone supposedly gives anyone who kisses it "the gift of the gab." This is the ability so speak clearly and fluently.

Choose to visit in the morning or in the evening!

We suggest arriving at 9 a.m. or after 4 p.m. to beat the crowds, especially during high season.

The best time of year to visit is outside of high season.

Plan your visit to kiss the Blarney Stone for April, May, September, or October to avoid the crowds.

Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours at Blarney Castle & Gardens.

You’ll want to have plenty of time to kiss the stone and then explore the gardens!

You kiss the Blarney Stone upside down.

To participate in the tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone, you'll have to lay on a mat and lean directly backward while holding two bars.

You don’t have to kiss the Blarney Stone!

Even if you don't want to kiss the stone, Blarney Castle & Gardens are still 100% worth the visit! You could spend hours in the gardens.

Stay the night in Blarney for the best experience.

It's easy to wake up early to see the Blarney Stone without the crowds if you stay nearby the night before your visit!