Built by Norman knight Hugh de Lacy in the late 12th century overlooking Carlingford Lough, the castle takes its name from King John of England, who is said to have stayed there for three days in 1210 during his Irish campaign. Its D-shaped curtain walls and gatehouse dominate the picturesque medieval town of Carlingford.
Visiting King John's Castle, Carlingford
Ruin, exterior freely accessible, seasonal access to grounds
"Built by Norman knight Hugh de Lacy in the late 12th century overlooking Carlingford Lough, the castle takes its name from King John of England, who is said to have stayed there for three days in 1210 during his Irish campaign."
Where to stay nearby
The closest castle hotel is Bellingham Castle, 21.77 km away in Castlebellingham — Built around 1660 by Sir Henry Bellingham, ancestral home of the Bellingham family until the 1950s; converted into a hotel from the late 1950s onward.
Nearest castle hotel · 21.77 km
Bellingham Castle
Castlebellingham, Co. Louth · 4-star
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