Top 4 Castles around Shean

Franciscan Bell Tower 1240's. In the heart of the historic Seatown district rises the impressive bell tower of Seatown Castle, a remnant of the 13th-century Franciscan abbey. Although the rest of the monastery has largely disappeared, this robust, square tower still stands proudly as a reminder of the town's medieval past. With its characteristic battlements and narrow windows, the tower served not only as a belfry but, in turbulent times, likely also as a defensive structure. As you cycle through the narrow streets of Seatown, this monument forms a beautiful historical anchor point amidst modern development. Worth a short stop to admire the massive stone walls up close and soak up the atmosphere of old Dundalk.

Unfortunately, the castle was under scaffolding at the time of our visit.

On my way through County Armagh, I came across Moyry Castle, a ruined castle perched on a small hill overlooking the historic Moyry Pass - the so-called 'Gap of the North'. It is fascinating to think of how this strategic route was once crucial in securing control of the region. The castle's massive, weathered walls still speak of the turbulent times of the 17th century when it was built by the 1st Earl of Devonshire, Charles Blount. What struck me most was the atmosphere up here: a mixture of isolation and history. The small rectangular structure with its distinctive curves just has a different feel - not ostentatious or over-the-top, but rather functional and robust. The location offers sweeping views over the rolling hills and the Belfast-Dublin railway line that winds through the landscape. It's quiet up here, with only the gentle sound of the wind and the occasional train passing by in the distance. It's definitely worth a quick stop if you're looking for a place steeped in history that's not too crowded. The site is easily accessible and is well worth a detour from the main route. The surrounding meadows also offer a lovely spot for a little break - perfect for taking in the surroundings.

Moyry Castle stands over the Moyry Pass, also known as "The Gap of the North" - a strategically important crossing that has played an important role for centuries. The small, rectangular castle with its three floors and thick stone walls gives you an idea of the challenges that the defenders once had to overcome. It was built in 1601 by Charles Blount, 1st Earl of Devonshire, to secure the pass and control access to Ulster. As you explore the old fortress, you can see the surrounding landscape, which alternates between rolling hills and forests. It feels like you have been transported back in time, as the walls silently tell of long-ago conflicts. Just a short distance away is the Belfast-Dublin railway line, which shows you how this place has changed over time without losing its historical character. A visit to the castle not only gives you a sense of the country's history, but also of the strategic importance of the Moyry Pass, which has been the link between the north and south of Ireland for centuries.

Our Irish Heritage (Seatown Castle, 2024-07-29): https://www.ouririshheritage.org/content/knowyour5k/seatown-castle Wikipedia (Dundalk, Seatown Castle, 2024-07-29): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dundalk#Architecture National Built Heritage Service (Old Castle, Castle Road, Mill Street, TOWNPARKS (Upper Dundalk By.), Dundalk, LOUTH, 2024-07-29): https://www.buildingsofireland.ie/buildings-search/building/13705100/old-castle-castle-road-mill-street-townparks-upper-dundalk-by-dundalk-co-louth Reg No: 13705100 National Library of Ireland (Seatown Castle, Dundalk, Co. Louth, 2024-07-29): https://catalogue.nli.ie/Record/vtls000034027

Due to its privileged location, this incredible Anglo-Norman castle can be seen from miles around. It is believed to have been built in the first half of the 13th century by Lady Rohesia de Verdun after her husband's death. According to legend, she promised to marry the architect who built her a castle in Roche. When this happened and the architect claimed her hand, she threw him from one of the windows, which is known as the 'murder window.'

Formerly known as Killeavy Lodge, this Grade A listed historical building was constructed in the first half of the 19th century. It features a pre-Victorian style with towers, Tudor windows, and a medieval-style door. It currently operates as a restaurant, hotel, and events venue.

Wikipedia (Moyry Castle (from the Irish Maġ Rí), 2023-10-05): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moyry_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moyry_Castle Tripadvisor (Moyry Castle, 2023-10-05): https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g209976-d11746113-Reviews-Moyry_Castle-Crossmaglen_County_Armagh_Northern_Ireland.html It is not possible to park in front of Moyry Castle. https://www.google.com/maps/@54.070561,-6.383879,3a,90y,199.87h,74.63t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sjrb6drimx5weKEHkjD1p2g!2e0!7i13312!8i6656 YouTube (Drone Video, RODPIKER DRONES UK, 2023-10-05): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s9Nq-LqxfxY