Dunluce Castle: Medieval Irish Castle on the Antrim Coast

Virtual Visit to Dunluce Castle, Bushmills

Dunluce Castle is sited dramatically close to the edge of a headland, along the North Antrim coast. Surrounded by jaw dropping coastal scenery, this medieval castle stands where an early Irish fort was once built and where its history can be traced back to early Christians and Vikings. Visit and take a peek at medieval Irish life!

Dunluce Castle has a rich and varied history, connected with such names as Richard de Burgh, Sorley Boy MacDonnell, and Sir John Perrott, running up to its last occupant, Randall MacDonnell - the second Earl of Antrim.Other properties connected with Dunluce include Ballymagarry House and Glenarm Castle.

A village that once surrounded the castle was destroyed by fire during 1641, but some archaelogical remnants of walls remain. Also nearby are the ancient church ruins of St. Cuthbert's, and the site was witness to the sinking of the colony ship the Exmouth, bound for Quebec, which broke up on rocks off Islay with 240 deaths in 1857.

Visitor centre, shop and guided tours of the ruins, gardens and remnants of the town. Limited wheelchair access. Tours available Easter-September and pre-booked available out of season.

No admission to unaccompanied children under sixteen.

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