Margaret's Castle

Margaret's Castle is a medieval fortification in Ardglass with two surviving storeys, vaulted ceilings, and a rectangular tower featuring projecting corner turrets on its northwest side. The structure displays typical defensive architecture of the 15th century with functional details such as gun ports and reinforced entryways.

The castle was built in the 15th century as one of six defensive structures protecting the strategic coastal settlement of Ardglass. This fortification formed part of a larger defensive system designed to secure the harbor and surrounding trade routes from attack.

The structure represents the medieval military architecture of Northern Ireland, designated as a Scheduled Historic Monument for preservation purposes.

The site is easy to reach and provides access to the remaining sections of the tower and surrounding ruins. Visitors should be prepared for uneven ground and wear sturdy footwear, as the structure can be partially explored on foot.

The western corner of the structure contains an original spiral staircase still climbable to the upper levels today. A murder-hole positioned above the entrance between the turrets shows the harsh defensive strategy of medieval times.

GPS coordinates: 54.25860,-5.60670

Latest update: December 9, 2025 20:27