The Battle of Dysert O'Dea, which drove the Anglo-Normans from the region for over 200 years, took place at this site on 10 May 1318.

Domhnall supported the northern Chiefs in the Nine Years' War of 1594-1603 and subsequently Dysert Castle fell to the Protestant Bishop of Kildare, Daniel Neylon, who in 1594 bequeathed it to his son, John.

Conor Cron O'Dea supported the Confederates and participated in the successful siege of Ballyalla Castle in 1642.

The Neylon family then returned but during the reign of Charles II, Conor Cron O'Dea regained the castle.

The lands passed to the Synge family but the castle eventually and gradually fell into ruin.