Red Bay Castle is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the blend of history and nature, offering moments you’ll want to savor.

Perched prominently on the headland between Cushendall and Waterfoot, the ruins of Red Bay Castle invite you on an unforgettable historical adventure, beckoning visitors to explore its enchanting atmosphere.

This majestic stronghold, said by locals to have stood for nearly a thousand years, holds mysteries and tales passed down through generations. Beyond its fascinating history and captivating natural beauty, what truly stands out is the castle’s grand architecture and meticulous design—a testament to its enduring legacy.

The architectural beauty of Red Bay Castle is captivating.

Originally, the castle measured around 12 meters by 7 meters and stood approximately 6 meters tall. Today, what remains is a single wall of the impressive two-story Tower House. Upon closer inspection, you can spot intricate stone decorations high up, along with a series of intriguing holes.

A careful look reveals that these holes once held the floorboards in place. Attached to the castle wall is a fragment of the curtain wall that once encircled the courtyard—a fascinating remnant of its former grandeur.

The entire structure was meticulously crafted from local sandstone, a testament to the remarkable skills of its builders and a source of intriguing legends. Shall we explore a few of those myths?

Myths Surrounding Red Bay Castle

Local folklore tells of a fantastical legend in which the stones of Red Bay Castle were transported from a nearby island by giant eagles. These majestic birds were believed to possess magical powers, serving as loyal guardians to the castle’s lords. Hearing such tales feels like stepping straight into a Harry Potter adventure—a true delight for any fellow enthusiast of magical stories.

Another captivating myth centers on a hidden treasure said to be buried within the castle’s walls. Many have attempted to uncover it, yet none have succeeded. Some believe the treasure carries a curse, dooming anyone who finds it to a terrible fate, while others insist it is protected by supernatural forces. These legends add an enchanting layer of mystery to the castle’s history, sparking curiosity about the true stories it holds.

Tales of Bravery, Conflict, and Endurance

Red Bay Castle’s story began as a simple wooden fort. Gazing at its current ruins, it’s hard to imagine that this grand structure once started as a humble wooden fort.

The Scoto-Norman Bissets, a brave group of builders, constructed the initial fort—known as a “motte”—atop the hill. To defend their stronghold, they built a protective wooden fence called a “stockade” around the hill. Traces of this original layout can still be discerned from the landward side today.

In 1561, the McDonnell family transformed the wooden structure into a formidable stone castle. Unfortunately, just four years later, Shane “The Proud” O’Neill, a powerful 16th-century Irish nobleman, attacked and burned it to the ground as part of his campaign to assert control over Ulster and challenge English dominance. During the attack, Sir James McDonnell and his brother Sorley were captured. Sorley was eventually released, but the castle required extensive repairs.

It was Sorley’s son, James, who undertook the task of restoring it, ensuring that Red Bay Castle once again stood tall. Over the years, the castle changed hands, with each new family leaving its mark on its architecture and history. Ultimately, in 1652, the stronghold was reduced to ruins by soldiers led by Cromwell.

Today, visitors can explore remnants of the ancient walls and imagine life as it once was for those who lived within its protective embrace.

Perched high atop a rocky cliff overlooking the Irish Sea, Red Bay Castle offers breathtaking panoramic views. The ruins set against the stunning natural landscape evoke a sense of enchantment and timeless wonder.

But the experience doesn’t end there—the journey to Red Bay Castle itself is a magical adventure. As you wind your way toward it, every twist and turn reveals rolling green hills and serene countryside vistas, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.

Planning Your Route to a Red Bay Castle Adventure

If you’re visiting Red Bay Castle from Dublin, renting a car offers the most flexibility and convenience for reaching this remote yet enchanting location. This holds true for exploring much of Ireland, as driving allows for more freedom to take in the breathtaking scenery at your own pace.

However, if you prefer not to drive, public transport can still get you there. Start your journey by taking the train from Dublin to Belfast—there’s a train departing every hour. Once in Belfast, you can continue your trip by bus or taxi to reach Red Bay Castle.

It’s well worth the effort, as the journey will lead you to other remarkable attractions, such as Waterfoot, Ballycastle, and the world-famous Giant’s Causeway. Each destination offers a unique experience, from charming villages with colorful shops to striking coastal rock formations.

No matter the weather, every location exudes its own unique charm—whether it’s powerful waves crashing on a cloudy day or bright sunshine highlighting the coastal landscape, every moment spent at Red Bay Castle and its surroundings feels magical and unforgettable.

So, if you ever find yourself in Northern Ireland, be sure to add Red Bay Castle to your itinerary. The adventure will undoubtedly be worth every moment of the journey!