Welcome to Castleconway

Let's take a magical trip to a special place called Castleconway in County Kerry, Ireland. Long, long ago, it was home to a big, beautiful castle. Can you imagine living in a castle? Imagine the tall towers, the grand halls, and the thick stone walls. This castle was built by a powerful family named the Conways - that's how the town got its name!

Unfortunately, the castle isn't standing anymore, but Castleconway is still full of history. It's a peaceful, green place with rolling hills and fresh air. Many years have passed, but the spirit of the old castle lives on in the hearts of the people who live there.

Even though the castle is gone, the people of Castleconway treasure their history. They remember the stories of the old castle and the Conway family. This may seem like a quiet place, but it's always buzzing with the sounds of children playing, birds singing, and the gentle rustling of leaves. It's a place where the past and present come together in a beautiful harmony.

So, even if you can't see the castle today, when you visit Castleconway, you can still feel its magic in the air. It's like stepping into a storybook!

  1. What was the name of the family who built the castle in Castleconway?
  2. What happened to the castle in Castleconway?
  3. What can you hear when you visit Castleconway today?
  4. How do the people of Castleconway keep the spirit of the old castle alive?
  5. If you could visit Castleconway, what is one thing you would like to do or see? Explain why.

All About Castleconway

Castleconway is a magical little place in County Kerry, Ireland. It's so small it doesn't have many streets, but the area around it is filled with amazing things to discover! One of the most exciting things about Castleconway is the River Laune. This beautiful river flows through the area, sparkling under the sunshine. Many different kinds of fish live in the river, like salmon and trout, just waiting for patient fishermen.

The area around Castleconway is a wonderland for nature lovers with its rich flora and fauna. You might spot red foxes, badgers, or even Irish hares if you're really lucky! The plants are equally exciting with wildflowers like foxgloves and bluebells adding splashes of colour to the green landscape.

There aren't any mountains in Castleconway, but the MacGillycuddy's Reeks, Ireland's highest mountain range, can be seen in the distance. On a clear day, they provide a stunning backdrop to this quaint little spot. Castleconway may not have much street furniture, but it has an old stone bridge. This bridge is a lovely spot to play Poohsticks or to just enjoy the lovely view of the river. So, even though it's small, Castleconway is a beautiful place full of nature's wonders!.

  1. What types of fish can be found in the River Laune?
  2. What type of wildlife can be spotted around Castleconway?
  3. What is the name of the mountain range that can be seen from Castleconway?
  4. Using a map, can you identify and describe another geographical feature near Castleconway?
  5. Plan a short trip to Castleconway and identify something of geographical interest you would like to explore. What is it and why did you choose it?

My Family and Castleconway

Hi, I'm Zephyr and I'm 8 years old! I live in a cool place called Castleconway in Co. Kerry. It's really fun growing up here. We have lots of neat things to see. We've got a big old castle that's been around forever! Sometimes, my friends and I play knights and princesses around it. We also have the River Maine, which is full of fish. My dad taught me how to fish there, and I've caught three so far!

One of my favourite places is the Killarney National Park. It’s full of trees and animals, and we go there for picnics sometimes. It’s so much fun to run around and explore. I once saw a red deer there! I also love the Torc Waterfall. It's so tall and the water sounds like thunder when it falls. I love living here because every day is a new adventure!

  1. What is the name of the castle near where Zephyr lives?
  2. What activity does Zephyr enjoy doing at the River Maine?
  3. What is one thing Zephyr likes about Killarney National Park?
  4. What animal did Zephyr see in Killarney National Park?
  5. How does Zephyr describe the sound of the Torc Waterfall?

The Logainm of Castleconway

Castleconway is a special name that comes from a place in County Kerry, Ireland. In the Irish language, it's called Caisleán Uí Chonaing, which translates to 'O'Conaing's Castle' in English. This name tells us that once upon a time, a family with the surname O'Conaing owned a castle there.

The O'Conaing family were very important long, long ago. They were known as chieftains, which means they were leaders of their people. Their castle was probably a big, strong building where they lived and ruled their land. This land is now known as Castleconway.

Today, there's no castle in Castleconway, but the name still reminds us of the rich history of this place. Every time someone says Castleconway, they're also telling a little bit of the story about the O'Conaing family and their castle that once stood there. The name is a way for us to remember and honor the past, even as we live our lives in the present.

  1. What does the name Castleconway mean in English?
  2. Who were the O'Conaing family?
  3. What is a chieftain?
  4. Why is there no castle in Castleconway today?
  5. How does the name Castleconway help us remember the past?

Slideshow - Castleconway
A full set of teaching plans for teaching about Castleconway