Narrow Water Castle, located on the A2 road near Warrenpoint, County Down, is a 16th-century tower house and bawn, a historic monument in state care, situated at the strategic point where the Clanrye (Newry) River meets Carlingford Lough. Built around 1568 by the Magennis family, with earlier Norman roots from 1212 under Hugh de Lacy, this well-preserved example of a late-medieval Irish tower house offers a glimpse into Ireland’s turbulent past. The castle, also known as Narrow Water Keep, is distinct from the nearby 19th-century Narrow Water Castle (a private estate built in 1816 by the Hall family, primarily used for weddings and accommodation).
- Historical Significance and Architecture: The castle, a classic Norman tower house, is rectangular, three stories high with an attic, and features 1.5-meter-thick walls, a murder hole above the entrance, a box machicolation for defense, and rare straight (not spiral) stairs within the walls. Originally built to guard the narrow crossing of the Newry River, it played roles in the 1641 Irish Rebellion and later as a salt works before becoming a state monument in 1956. Visitors can explore its exterior, with its defensive design (narrow slit windows, barrel-vaulted first floor) and scenic setting overlooking Carlingford Lough and the Cooley Mountains. The castle’s history is tied to local legends, including ghost stories, adding intrigue.
- Exterior Viewing: The castle is often closed to the public outside summer months, with limited interior access due to its status as a historic monument. Visitors can walk a short path from the A2’s parallel parking area to view the tower house and bawn, enjoying picturesque views of the lough, nearby round tower, and surrounding mountains. The strategic location, ideal for controlling river traffic, is a highlight, with opportunities to photograph the castle’s Norman architecture against the water’s edge.
- Guided Tours (Summer Only): When open (typically Friday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, June–August), guided tours offer access to the interior, showcasing the soldiers’ and servants’ quarters, latrine, and historical context (e.g., its role in defending against invasions). Tours are led by local historians and must be booked in advance via the Stormont government’s Environment Agency (NIEA) or Newry, Mourne and Down District Council (enquiries@newrymournedown.org or +44 (0)33 0137 4046). The interior is compact, with a focus on defensive features like the murder hole and bawn wall, which once housed a stable and cottages.
Accessibility and Facilities:
- Access: The castle is accessible via a short walking/bicycle path from the A2’s roundabout parking area. The site is not fully wheelchair-accessible due to uneven terrain and steps to the interior. Parking is free along the A2, with no on-site facilities (toilets or café). Nearby Warrenpoint (2km) offers dining at places like The Marine Tavern or Ye Old Ship Inn.
- Nearby Attractions: The castle’s location makes it ideal for combining with visits to Warrenpoint Pier, Carlingford Adventure Centre, Slieve Gullion Forest Park, or the Carlingford Lough Ferry for cross-border exploration. The Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark enhances the area’s appeal for nature and history lovers.
- Visitor Feedback: With a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice award, the castle is praised for its scenic beauty and historical significance, ranking No. 1 among Warrenpoint attractions. Reviews note its well-preserved state and strategic location but highlight limited opening hours, with many unable to enter outside summer. Visitors recommend checking opening times and combining with nearby walks or sites like Greencastle or the Cloughmore Stone.
- Pricing and Hours: Entry is free when open, with guided tours requiring a small fee (contact NIEA for details). Summer hours are Friday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM (June–August), but the site is accessible year-round for exterior viewing. Confirm hours via www.communities-ni.gov.uk or www.visitmournemountains.co.uk.
New developments:
- Construction of the Narrow Water Bridge, a cable-stayed bridge connecting the six counties with the 26, began in June 2024 and is ongoing through 2025–2026. This £175m project, located near the castle, will enhance regional connectivity, boosting tourism to Warrenpoint and the castle. Visitors will see construction activity, with potential temporary disruptions to parking or access paths, but the bridge promises to draw more visitors to the area, with the castle as a key attraction. The bridge will open to pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, fostering cultural and economic links.
- Expanded Guided Tours and Information: Local historians are advocating for enhanced on-site information and more frequent guided tours. This includes new interpretive signs, digital guides, or extended summer hours to accommodate growing interest, especially with the bridge’s tourism boost. Details are pending, so check www.visitwarrenpoint.com for updates.
- Seasonal Events: The castle hosts seasonal events, such as historical reenactments or storytelling sessions tied to its Norman and Troubles-era history, aligning with the Warrenpoint Festival (May). The popular Santa Experience, held at the nearby 19th-century Narrow Water Castle estate, could expand to include historical talks about the tower house, augmenting the visitor experience. Contact the council for event schedules.
Practicalities:
- Planning Tips: Confirm opening times with NIEA, as the castle is often closed outside summer. Bring sturdy shoes for uneven terrain and check tide times, as the lough’s edge enhances views. Pair with nearby attractions like Kilbroney Park or Carlingford for a full day.
- The nearby private Narrow Water Castle (1816) is not open for tours but offers accommodation; ensure you’re visiting the 16th-century keep for historical exploration.
- Ideal for what Tourism Ireland marketing department calls the “culturally curious”, photographers, and those exploring the Mourne region, the castle’s compact size and scenic setting make it a quick but rewarding stop.
- The 2025 bridge project and potential new tours elevate its appeal.
Narrow Water Castle offers a compact yet evocative dive into Ireland’s medieval past, with 2025’s bridge construction and potential new tours promising increased accessibility and engagement. For updates, visit www.visitmournemountains.co.uk or www.communities-ni.gov.uk
