Malcolm Rogers visits Greencastle in Co Down, lying amid scenic beauty
and echoes of Celtic history
Where On Earth
Situated in the southern reaches of Co. Down, on the shores of Carlingford
Lough.About 40 miles south of Belfast, on the most southerly point of the Six
Counties, some 75 miles north of Belfast.
History
Neolithic worked flintstone tools (or weapons) 5,500 years old have been
found in this, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Mourne.
From more recent times there are early Christian raths or ring forts,
constructed some 1,500 years ago, evidence of which can still be found in
the village.
Moving
along, it is believed that the Vikings gave Carlingford its name in the
9th century and established the area as a trading place between the Norse
lands, Scotland and England. (Several local Gaelic songs almost identical
to Hebridean songs bear testimony to the links between these islands.)
In the middle of the area is the medieval Greencastle Fort. A lot of
which is still standing and you can climb up the corner turrets to the first
floor.
Reasons to Visit
Greencastle is located within an area of immense environmental significance
— recognised both nationally and internationally. The Mourne area is designated
as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty as well as an Environmentally Sensitive
Area.
The Carlingford Lough shoreline, including Greencastle, is an Area of
Special Scientific Interest.
The area is something of a dream for naturalists and bird-watchers. Sea
birds abound, as well as sea mammals and flying mammals.
Several species of seals use the inshore islands for pupping and breeding
and as many as nine species of bats occupy farm outhouses in the area.
Should I go further afield?
You’re within striking distance of some of the most beautiful mountain ranges
in Europe — the Mournes, the Cooleys and the Slieve Gullion range.
For a great spectacle, journey on down the road to Kilkeel (10 miles
or so) and watch the fishing fleet coming in to land their catch.
In the summer this can be anytime from 4pm onwards — but stroll round
the harbour and any old salt, er, worth his salt will give you the full
scoop.
Local Controversies
Newry and Mourne District Council have proposed to build a terminal at Greencastle
for a ferry across Carlingford Lough to the southern shore.
Development would involve widening the existing single-lane road and
adding a three-lane roadway at Greencastle point. A slipway would be required,
as well as a toilet block.
The aim of the project is to “promote tourism in the Cooley and Mourne
areas”. But most local people and environmentalists are not keen on the
idea.
Greencastle should not be confused with...
Greencastle, Co. Donegal; Greencastle, Co. Antrim. Or for that matter Greencastle,
Indiana; Greencastle, Maryland: or Greencastle Northern Territories, Australia.
Moving
along, it is believed that the Vikings gave Carlingford its name in the
9th century and established the area as a trading place between the Norse
lands, Scotland and England. (Several local Gaelic songs almost identical
to Hebridean songs bear testimony to the links between these islands.)