Have you ever wanted to fully experience the fusion of nature and history at one and every moment? Yes, Red Bay Castle is the ideal location for it.
Perched on the cliff between Cushendall and Waterfoot, the ruins of Red Bay Castle are easily seen. It calls out for you to come explore its captivating feelings, much like a history adventure waiting to happen!
This magnificent fortress endured the decades, with the locals attesting to its presence for almost a millennium. It is home to enigmas and legends passed down through the years. The castle’s enormous grandeur and meticulous design were what really caught me off guard, aside from its intriguing history and alluring natural beauty.
Let’s explore further.
Table of Contents
1. The architectural beauty of Red Bay Castle
2. Myths that surround Red Bay Castle
3. The Tales of Bravery, Conflict, and Endurance
4. Drive or Ride: What Should be Your Route to Red Bay Castle Adventure?
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The architectural beauty of Red Bay Castle
Red Bay Castle was formerly around 12 meters long by 7 meters broad and 6 meters high.
All that remains of the castle now is a single wall of the interesting two-story Tower House. A closer inspection reveals several holes along with some really amazing stone patterns up above.
Upon further examination, I discovered that they used to be stuck in the flooring here. Additionally, a section of the curtain wall that formerly encircled the courtyard is fastened to the castle wall. It’s kind of cool, huh?
This complete construction, which showcases the incredible skill of its builders and gives rise to numerous intriguing stories, was made entirely of local sandstone. How about we explore a few of those myths?
Myths that surround Red Bay Castle
The stones of the castle were supposedly carried there by enormous eagles from a nearby island, according to local legend. The lords of the castle were supposedly protected and guarded by these magnificent birds, which were rumored to have magical abilities. It was like turning the pages of a Harry Potter book when I heard this. I’m sure that you would experience the same allure if you are a fellow Harry Potter fan.
Another well-known legend is that there is hidden wealth within the castle’s walls. No one has been able to locate it despite several attempts. Some people assume the wealth is guarded by magical forces, while others fear it is cursed and that whomever discovers it will meet a dreadful end.
These legends give the castle’s past an alluring air of mystery and compel reflection on the true nature of the narrative. Now let’s get started.
The Tales of Bravery, Conflict, and Endurance
Originally, Red Bay Castle was a timber fort. It was hard for me to believe that this spectacular structure was once only a comfortable timber fort when I looked at it.
Mostly, the wooden fort known as the “motte” atop the hill was constructed by a group of courageous Scoto-Norman “Bissets.” To protect their fort, they erected a barrier known as a “stockade” around the remainder of the hill. This arrangement is still readily visible from the land side.
Following the age of wooden forts, the McDonnell family assumed control. They constructed a strong stone fortress in 1561, but sadly Shane “The Proud” O’Neill attacked and set it on fire in 1565.
All of this was done by Shane, a strong Irish nobleman in the sixteenth century, as part of his attempts to defy English rule and take control of the Ulster region. Sorley, Sir James McDonnell’s brother, and other captives were brought away. Later, Sorley was released, but the castle still needed to be fixed.
James, Sorley’s son, completed the repairs and restored it to its former height. It was passed down through the years, with each family adding their own touches. Eventually, a troop of troops under the command of a man by the name of Cromwell destroyed the castle in 1652.
Parts of the ancient walls are still visible when one visits Red Bay Castle today, allowing one to picture what life was like for those who lived there in the distant past.
The castle overlooks the Irish Sea from its perch on a rocky bluff. From there, you get sweeping, spectacular vistas in every direction. I had the impression that I was in a wonderful location when I saw the ancient ruins set against the stunning natural surroundings.
That’s not all, though; the drive to Red Bay Castle is a lovely experience in and of itself. Every bend on the road leading up to the castle offers a view of the peaceful countryside and undulating green hills.
Drive or Ride: What Should be Your Route to Red Bay Castle Adventure?
Most visitors from Dublin think about hiring a car to see Red Bay Castle as it offers greater flexibility and convenience in getting to this far-off place.
The aforementioned assertion actually applies to all of Ireland.
Public transportation is another option if you are unable or unable to drive yourself there.
Trains departing from Dublin every hour will take you to Belfast, so start your journey there. Your only options once in Belfast would be a cab or a bus.
Absolutely, it is worthwhile as you will also get the opportunity to see other local sights like Waterfoot, Ballycastle, and the well-known Giant’s Causeway.
Every place has a certain allure, from the colorful stores in the charming villages to the striking rock formations along the shore.
Every location has a certain appeal all its own, regardless of the weather! Every moment spent at Red Bay Castle is lovely and amazing, whether it’s the brilliant sunshine illuminating the coastal beauty or the strong waves and mist on a gloomy day.
You can be sure that if he is ever in Northern Ireland, the trip will be well worth it if Red Bay Castle is on the schedule!