Guided Castle Tour
Access is by guided tour only. Tours run at 2pm seven days a week, April to October, usually departing from the Visit Carlingford Tourist Office. Adults €8.50, children €4, family of four €20; book ahead on +353 42 937 3650.
Carlingford Castle
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About
A late 12th-century Norman stronghold that dominates Carlingford's skyline above the lough, still known as King John's Castle after England's king seized it in 1210.
Things to Do
The Norman Enclosure
The castle's D-shape — a straight eastern wall and a curved western face — follows an earlier Irish rath ditch reused in its foundations. Look for the large two-storey hall added in the 1260s and the 1400s living quarters for the Constable.
Lough and Harbour Views
Built to command the sea lough and the narrow land gap north into Ulster, the castle rewards the short climb with sweeping views over the harbour and Carlingford's rooftops toward Slieve Foy.
Carlingford Medieval Town
Pair the castle with a guided town tour of Ireland's medieval walled village — the Tholsel, Taaffe's Castle and the Mint. Town tours run Monday to Friday at 11am, adults €10, children €4, family €25.
Plan Your Visit
- Hours: Castle tours at 2pm, 7 days a week, April–October (access by guided tour only). Town tours Monday–Friday at 11am.
- Admission: Castle tour: adults €8.50, children €4.00, family of four €20
- Parking: Paid car park in the town; a car park is listed among the castle's facilities.
- Food: No café on site. Carlingford town, a short walk away, has restaurants, cafés and bars.
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