The Roches originally came from Flanders, then emigrated to Pembrokeshire in Wales, before three of the family - David, Adam and Henry de la Roch - joined Strongbow in the Anglo-Norman invasion of Ireland in the 12th century. At Glanworth, near Fermoy in Co. Cork, can be seen the ruins of a Roche castle destroyed by Cromwellian forces in the 17th century. West of Glanworth is the attractive village of Castletownroche, which derives its name from another Roche settlement. A more complete Roche castle can be seen in Co. Wexfordóthe Norman castle at Ferrycarrig, now the location of the Irish National Heritage Park. In all there are sixteen Rochestowns in Ireland and innumerable Roche castles.

Some of the best-known names of the present day have sporting connections, notably Stephen Roche, born in Dublin in 1959. A champion cyclist, he won the Tour de France and the World Championship in 1987.

A Roche clan rally is held every year in June.