Dunluce Castle — Attraction in Dunluce

Dunluce is one of the most picturesque and romantic of Irish Castles. With evidence of settlement from the first millennium, the present castle ruins date mainly from the 16th and 17th centuries. It was inhabited by both the feuding McQuillan and MacDonnell clans. Historical and archaeological exhibits are on display for public viewing.

In times of extreme weather conditions the site may be closed to ensure health and safety of staff and visitors.

History of Dunluce Castle-

Richard Óg de Burgh, 2nd Earl of Ulster, built the first castle at Dunluce, In the 13th century. The earliest features of the castle are two large drum towers about 9 metres (30 ft) in diameter on the eastern side, both relics of a stronghold built here by the McQuillans after they became lords of the "an Rúta" (territory) in the early 1500s.

Later Dunluce Castle became the home of the chief of the Clan MacDonnell of Antrim and later John Mor MacDonald the 6th chief Clan Donald of Scotland. In 1584 with the passing off John Mor MacDonald, the Antrim Glens and Castle were seized by Sorley Boy MacDonnell, making it the seat again solely of the MacDonnell Clan. Sorley Boy took the castle, keeping it for himself and improving it in the Scottish style. Sorley Boy swore allegiance to the crown and his son Randal was made 1st Earl of Antrim by King James I.

The Girona, a galleass (Ship) from the Spanish Armada, was wrecked in a storm on the rocks at Lacada Point on the night of 26 October 1588. Cannons from the ship were installed in the gatehouses and the rest of the cargo sold, funding restoration of the castle.

Dunluce Castle served as the seat of the Earl of Antrim until the impoverishment of the MacDonnells in 1690, following the Battle of the Boyne and the Clan picking the losing side of King James. Since that time, the castle has deteriorated and parts were scavenged to serve as materials for...

I recently had the immense pleasure of hosting my wedding at Dunluce Castle, and it was nothing short of magical. The breathtaking views and enchanting ruins provided the perfect backdrop for our special day.

What truly made our experience unforgettable were the incredible owners, Sean and Christine. From the start, they went above and beyond to ensure every detail was perfect. Their warmth and genuine care for our vision were evident in every interaction.

A standout moment was when Sean and Christine welcomed us with a nip of whiskey before my parents and I walked down the aisle—a thoughtful gesture that added a touch of Irish tradition. After the ceremony, they arranged a fun tractor ride for everyone, which added a whimsical touch to the festivities.

We then enjoyed a cozy cocktail hour in their charming cottage, complete with delicious food and drinks (provided by Toni from Come Wander with me). The intimate setting and their warm hospitality made it feel like a true celebration of love and family.

If you're looking for a wedding venue that combines stunning natural beauty with historical charm, and owners who are as passionate about your big day as you are, look no further than Dunluce Castle. Sean and Christine, thank you for making our wedding day a fairy tale come true. We are...

The Giant’s Causeway part of a stunning stretch of coastline called the Causeway Coast, but if you don’t fancy driving it, there are a couple of other must visit places close by, including Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle, used as the location of Castle Greyjoy in Game of Thrones.

Tucked away on a cliffside west of the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle gives you a real “wow” moment as it comes into view.

The castle, which balances on the edge of a rocky outcrop is accessed via a bridge which connects it to the mainland.

This stunning castle reminded me of our visit to Dunnottar Castle in Scotland as is surrounded on three sides by 100 foot cliffs!

The medieval castle, which was built in the 1500’s, is now a ruin, but still has partial remains of its round corner towers and outer wall, which makes it perfect for exploring.

Inside the remains of the Manor House you can clearly see where the first floor would have been and one of the bay windows has been reconstructed to give some extra stability to the building and to give an impression of what the original windows would have...