Carlingford Castle

A Norman citadel in the shadow of a giant

Tours of Carlingford Castle available from March 2024.

See all opening times

Admission

Castle Tour:

Adult: €8.00
Child: €4.00
Family (4): €20

Please note: it is advisable that groups book in advance.

For bookings please phone (042) 9373650 or email info@carlingfordheritagecentre.com

Tickets can also be purchased near to site at the Visit Carlingford Tourist Office, Station House, A91 CV06 .

Getting here

Carlingford Castle
Carlingford
Co Louth

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Carlingford Castle

Carlingford lies in the shade of Slieve Foye, a mountain that in legend takes its form from the body of the sleeping giant Finn MacCumhaill. The castle dominates the town and overlooks the lough harbour. It was a vital point of defence for the area for centuries.

Carlingford Castle was built around 1190, most likely by the Norman baron Hugh de Lacy. By this time Hugh’s family had grown powerful enough to make King John of England uneasy. John forced them into rebellion and seized their property in 1210. He reputedly stayed in his new castle himself. It is still known as King John’s Castle.

The Jacobites fired on the castle in 1689; William of Orange is said to have accommodated his wounded soldiers there following the Battle of the Boyne.

Carlingford Lough Heritage Trust provides excellent guided tours of this historic Castle from March to October.