There are places in Ireland that remain as impressive as they are terrifying. And one of the most intimidating places to visit is Cairndhu House, an abandoned house with architecture worthy of the greatest horror films! Located in Glenarm, Northern Ireland, the house is a top destination for dark tourism, and is said to be the most haunted house in Northern Ireland. A place to visit… provided you’ve got the stomach for it!
Cairndhu House
Cairndhu House was built around 1870, initially as a vacation home for the Stewart Clark family, an influential Scottish textile manufacturer of the time.
The house has been extended several times, modifying the original plans.
In 1906, Stewart Clarke’s daughter bought the property with her husband. They live there peacefully until they die. The house was then sold to the Northern Ireland Hospitals Authority.
Later, the manor house was converted into a hospital. The facility remained in operation until 1986, when it was closed and abandoned.
Its strange beauty led to it being used as a film location… before being forgotten.
Aerial view of Cairndhu House – © peter
Since then, Cairndhu House has suffered the ravages of time and seen its architecture become increasingly sinister. Although magnificent, the place has a dark charm: its closed windows, dirty walls, Gothic style, silence and dilapidated state make it a place conducive to unease.
For those wishing to discover it, the house is set between the sea and a thick forest.
The house has 2 floors, a veranda and a balcony. It also has gardens.
The site is a favorite of Urbex and Dark Tourism enthusiasts. The bravest of us like to get up close and discover the house.
But be warned: Cairndhu House, although abandoned, remains a private property, so it’s advisable to admire it from the outside… and not to venture inside its walls. What’s more, exploring it could prove dangerous, as the structure of the house becomes increasingly fragile over time.
However, there are many ways to immerse yourself in its history and folklore. Guided walks around the property are often organized, allowing visitors to feel the unique atmosphere of the place.
What’s more, some local organizations organize ghost tours at night, for the more adventurous who may wish to meet Sarah and the other spirits that haunt these parts.
Although you can’t get inside the house itself, the gardens and surroundings offer an equally enchanting experience, with stunning views of the Irish Sea.
As well as being spooky, Cairndhu House has the reputation of being the most haunted house in Northern Ireland.
Locals often speak of strange noises, mysterious apparitions and unexplained phenomena.
The most famous of these spirits would be that of a young girl named “Sarah”, who would have been a nurse during the period when the house was a hospital.
Rumor has it that she died under tragic circumstances, and that her spirit now haunts the premises.
Although these stories have never been proven, they contribute greatly to the mystery and appeal of this historic residence. Every year, many travellers come to scare themselves by exploring the outside of the house!
Also, many brave tourists like to visit at night, or during Halloween. It’s a great way to scare yourself at the slightest noise and check out whether the legends surrounding this house are true.
What about you? Will you give it a try?
Adresse :
GPS :
Tour duration :
Rates : free of charge (but please note that this is private property)
