Greencastle Royal Castle is a Northern Irish castle located in County Down near Kilkeel. It’s one of the best-preserved ruined castles in the region, and can be visited free of charge… It would be a shame not to stop by!
Greencastle Royal Castle is believed to date back to the 13th century, despite numerous modifications during the 15th and 16th centuries. Rather impressive, it would have been built on the orders of Hugues de Lacy, and was primarily intended to control and protect the comings and goings of Carlingford Lough, a strategic river at the time.
Building the castle required a colossal amount of work: it has to be said that the castle was built on a rocky outcrop that had been dug out beforehand.
Quite complete, the château consisted of :
Today, the fortified walls have disappeared, but many vestiges remain, including the keep, the main enclosure and the stables! The place is superb, and really ideal for a short visit!
Essential information to help you plan your visit, including key landmarks, access information, and booking options.
1-7 Bedford Street Belfast County Antrim BT2 7EG, Kilkeel (County Down) - Northern Ireland
54.040939, -6.096984
45 minutes
closed in winter. Random openings in summer. Contact them for confirmation
Check the opening hours and admission requirements before you leave, especially during peak season or on Irish public holidays.
