Greencastle Royal Castle — Attraction in Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

The best way to describe Greencastle Royal Castle is as a great shame. It’s a great shame because it has so much potential to be a fantastic tourist spot in the Mourne area, yet it fails to live up to that potential.

The driveway leading up to the castle is plastered with “Private Land” and “Trespassers will be prosecuted” signs, with no clear directions, making it quite intimidating to even approach the castle.

When I finally reached the castle, the keep gate was locked during the advertised opening hours, and there was no other entrance. It was very disappointing, as the castle looked amazing from the outside, and I could only imagine the views from the top of Carlingford Lough and the Mournes.

I believe the Newry, Mourne and Down Council has no awareness of the great opportunities the castle could bring to the local area. With tour guides, school trips, and medieval reenactment festivals, there is so much potential. This is especially true with the Carlingford Lough Ferry and Cranfield being right beside it.

Until something changes, I cannot recommend this place. If you want a better historical experience involving castles, I would recommend Dundrum or Carrickfergus...

Greencastle Castle is the only Royal Castle in Northern Ireland. The initial build can be dated back to the 13th Centuary and as with most castles it suffered many attacks and underwent much reworking throughout its history. Located on the shores of Carlingford Lough, its role would no doubt have been for observation and defence. There is a small carpark and portaloo for visitors. The castle is fully accessible to visitors with protected walkways right to the top of each tower and along passageways. Information boards tell the history of the castle. There is limited open days for the castle so it is best to check with the Environment and heritage website before...

This castle has such a great potential to bring more events to Greencastle. It could host days out, markets and re-enactments. I was there last month and it was advertised as open, but the gate was closed and there was no one near to ask. There was a small booth near the castle but this was closed, could be a good idea for coffee or small bites on days out.

Again, it was really nice to see, but I really wanted to see inside and explore this wonderful castle. My review will change to 5 once it opens again as I know it will be a...