Charleville Forest Castle, nestled in an ancient oak forest in Tullamore, County Offaly, is a striking example of Gothic Revival architecture. Hauntingly beautiful, it is also known for its ghostly legends. After standing empty for many years, the castle was taken over by its current owners in 1973, who began a dedicated restoration effort that continues today. The property is managed by the Charleville Castle Heritage Trust. Visitors are welcome to explore the castle through guided tours. However, as it is operated by volunteers, availability may vary, so it is recommended to call or email in advance to book a tour. For more information, visit the castle’s website. A Masterpiece of Gothic Revival Architecture Charleville Forest Castle, a remarkable example of Gothic Revival architecture, was designed by the esteemed architect Francis Johnston in the late 1700s. Construction of the castle spanned 14 years and was completed in 1812. Johnston was highly regarded for his work, which encompassed both neo-classical and neo-gothic designs. His architectural legacy is evident in numerous buildings across Ireland. One of his most notable works is the Chapel Royal in Dublin Castle, a masterpiece of Gothic Revival style. Charleville Castle reflects many features of medieval Gothic architecture and stands as one of Ireland’s finest examples of this style. The Original Owners Charleville Forest Castle was built for Charles William Bury, the Earl of Charleville, who inherited his title and a vast estate of several thousand hectares at just six months old, following his father’s tragic drowning. The estate included a sprawling oak forest and the town of Tullamore. When Bury turned 21, after completing his studies at Trinity College Dublin, he returned to Tullamore to revitalize and develop the town, which had been partly destroyed by a fire caused by a hot-air balloon accident. Charles and his wife, Catherine Maria Bury, the 1st Countess of Charleville, built Charleville Forest Castle as a home for their family. During its peak, the Charleville Estate encompassed approximately 24,000 acres, and Tullamore experienced significant growth in both population and prosperity. The Majestic King Oak Tree Standing proudly at the main entrance to Charleville Forest Castle Estate is the majestic King Oak, a sprawling tree that forms part of the ancient oak forest encircling the castle. While some online sources claim that the King Oak is 900 years old, the Irish Wildlife Trust suggests a more accurate age range of 400-800 years, making it one of the oldest trees in Ireland. Legend has it that the King Oak shares a mystical bond with the Bury family, with a fallen branch said to foreshadow the death of a family member. In 1963, the tree was nearly split in half by a lightning strike during a storm. Shortly afterward, the estate’s owner, Colonel Charles Howard-Bury, passed away at 82. He died at Belvedere House in County Westmeath, which he inherited from his father, while Charleville Castle had come to him through his mother. In 2013, the King Oak Tree earned third place in the European Tree of the Year contest, representing Ireland. It was bested by Hungary’s ‘The Plane Tree in Eger,’ which claimed the top spot. The Druids The grounds surrounding Charleville Forest Castle are steeped in ancient history, with tales suggesting they were once frequented by Druids. The mystical oak forest would have been an ideal setting for Druidic rituals and worship. While ancient Druids are sometimes associated with sacred rituals, including possible human sacrifices, there is no evidence of such practices within Charleville Forest itself. In Irish mythology, Druids were highly revered figures, possessing vast knowledge and influence, often rivaling that of kings, queens, and chieftains. The Interior Design The interior of Charleville Forest Castle is breathtaking. Visitors are greeted by an elegant entrance hall leading to an impressive staircase, adorned with a sparkling chandelier suspended from a beautifully designed ceiling. Gothic elements dominate the decor, including pointed arches and richly detailed plaster ceilings. The castle’s dining room, redecorated in the late 1860s, features a stenciled ceiling crafted by renowned textile designer William Morris, which remains a highlight today. The Hauntings Charleville Forest Castle has captured the imagination of paranormal enthusiasts and ghost hunters alike. The most famous ghost is that of Harriet, an 8-year-old daughter of the 3rd Earl of Charleville, who tragically died in 1861 while sliding down the banister and breaking her neck. Many visitors report feeling cold spots near the staircase or glimpsing a young girl dressed in blue and white, sometimes accompanied by a young boy. There are also claims of hearing children’s laughter and singing within the castle. Other eerie sightings include spectral monks, ghostly footsteps, disembodied voices, strange ceiling lights, an inexplicable mist, and a menacing spirit said to linger in the dungeon. The Dungeon Though Charleville Forest Castle was never a prison, the so-called dungeon is more akin to a basement. There is a legend that the 1st Earl of Charleville practiced dark rituals, with a mysterious altar allegedly hidden and later rediscovered during renovations. Regardless of its history, numerous claims describe encounters with a terrifying presence in this part of the castle. Charleville Forest Castle is a magnificent example of Gothic Revival architecture, but it also stands as a testament to dedication and passion, with restoration efforts continuing to breathe life into this storied building.