The motte and bailey dates to c.1200 and is an excellent example of an Anglo-Norman earthwork castle. The taller mound, the motte, was built of earth to provide a look-out position and the central defence. Excavations at the top of the motte during the 1950s uncovered a wooden palisade which originally extended around the summit.

When you climb the motte you realise what an important position the castle is in, over looking the routes east to Downpatrick, south to Dundrum and north to Belfast Lough. The views from the top of the motte west to Slieve Croob are particularly fine.

Beyond the Horizon

November 1, 2024

This historic 12th century building is a typical example of an Anglo-Norman motte with a kidney-shaped bailey. The 7.6m high mound, which once housed a wooden tower, was later replaced by a stone tower house, the ruins of which can still be seen today. Access is via Clough's main road; there is a small car park, but it is not always well signposted. Access is usually permitted. The surrounding countryside, with views of the Mourne Mountains, offers a tranquil atmosphere that invites you to linger.

Translated by Google •

In the know? Log-in to add a tip for other adventurers!

Details

Informations

Elevation 40 m

Weather

Today

Thursday 23 October

10°C

7°C

100 %

If you start your activity now...

Max wind speed: 24.0 km/h

Most visited during

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

See rides here

Take Me There

Location: Clough, Down, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

Other Popular Places to Check Out

Dundrum Castle

Thomas's Quarry and Waterfall

View of Slieve Donard from Keel Point

Seaforde Gardens and Tropical Butterfly House

The Devil's Coach Road

Tollymore Forest Park Stone Arch Bridge

Slieve Croob Summit

View of the Mourne Mountains and Dundrum

Newcastle Beach

View of the Mourne Mountains

View of Newcastle and the Mourne Mountains from Curraghard Summit

View of Castlewellan Castle and Lake

Clough Castle Ruins

1. Newcastle to Clough Castle loop — Mourne

2. Tyrella Beach to Annadorn Dolmen loop

3. Castlewellan to Inch Abbey loop — Strangford & Lecale

Other Popular Places to Check Out

We value your privacy ⛰️

We value your privacy ⛰️