The FitzGeralds and Fitzmaurices first settled in the area in the 13th century, following the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland, at the nearby Shanid Castle.

In the 14th century, the Lord of Desmond elevated an illegitimate son to the hereditary knighthood of Glin.

John Bateman FitzGerald, 23rd Knight of Glin married Margaretta Maria Fraunceis Gwyn in the 1780s and used her dowry to build a new home in the Georgian style.

In 2011 Desmond FitzGerald, 29th Knight of Glin died without a male heir.

To keep the castle in the family, it was purchased by Catherine FitzGerald, daughter of the last Knight of Glin, and her husband Dominic West.