Overlooking the wide North Channel from atop a rocky hill, Red Bay Castle is a rich, though sometimes overlooked, historic landmark in Northern Ireland. Near the coast by Cushendall in County Antrim, this site shares stories from long ago of struggles, valiant families, and folk traditions.

I traveled there almost two years ago, but I still remember everything clearly. Let’s dive deep.

Some History of Red Bay Castle

Building Red Bay Castle began in the 13th century under the control of the Bissett family, who gained ownership of the Glens of Antrim lands after being expelled from Scotland by King Henry III. Long before the Bissets arrived, there were fortified structures here, according to historical records.

The MacDonnells, a leading Gaelic family in Ulster, later obtained the castle. They improved and strengthened the stronghold, making it an important headquarters along the north coast. Like many Irish castles, Red Bay was attacked, burned down, and rebuilt on numerous occasions, mainly during conflicts with the English and quarrels between clans.

🏰 The Wonderful Architectural Design of Red Bay Castle

Most of Red Bay Castle is now in ruins, but fragments display the strong architectural design of medieval Ireland. From the ruins, we can tell that the stronghold had mantlets, small slit windows, and a regal tower overlooking the bay.

What’s special about this site is the unique mix of natural and human-made fortifications. Being constructed at the top of a basalt cliff naturally made the castle higher and protected from invaders. Even today, the original method of building strong, stone-faced walls is visible in parts of the site.

Because the castle is on the Causeway Coastal Route, it is known as one of the prettiest ruined sites in Antrim, looking especially magical as the evening sun sets and the stone takes on a soft crimson glow.

🧚‍♂️ The Stories Surrounding Red Bay Castle

Many myths and legends surround Red Bay, as is often the case with Irish castles. The stories of the region say that spirits from the past may return to the ruins whenever mist and fog roll in from across the channel.

A popular legend says that a spectral horseman — possibly a lost MacDonnell warrior — patrols the castle to watch over the family’s old keep. Locals say they hear the sound of hoofbeats when the moon is hidden at night.

It is claimed that beneath the rubble of the castle, there is a secret tunnel leading to nearby coastal caves where goods were smuggled and people escaped attacks.

⚔️ Stories Filled with Courage, Fighting, and Determination

Red Bay Castle’s story is filled with war and tenacity. During a conflict with the MacDonnells in the 16th century, Shane O’Neill, the Gaelic lord of Tyrone, destroyed the castle. In spite of everything, the MacDonnells rebuilt Red Bay Castle and made it a center of their power once again.

Red Bay was essential in helping the MacDonnells stand up to English troops during the Nine Years’ War from 1593 to 1603. Every time the building was captured and burned, it was restored, showing how strong its resistance remained.

The tales of standing firm during danger and fighting for what belonged to them have preserved Red Bay Castle in local memory as a symbol of strength.

🚗 You Can Drive or Ride to Red Bay Castle Adventure!

Situated just outside Cushendall village in County Antrim, Red Bay Castle is within easy walking, biking, and driving distance for those traveling along the famous Causeway Coastal Route.

From Belfast, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive (approx. 60 miles) via the M2 and A2 roads, taking you through glorious countryside and offering magnificent coastal views.

Leaving from Derry/Londonderry by car along the A2, you arrive in about 2 hours (approx. 65 miles) through the Glens of Antrim.

Red Bay Castle makes a great rest stop if you’re cycling the Causeway Coast — located right next to the coast road and offering a wonderful view of the sea.

Top Tip: Great photo opportunities, but park safely and take a short stroll into the castle ruins before heading back to use the loo!

🌿 If You’re Nearby, Discover Glenariff Forest Park (Not a Beach, Yet So Beautiful)

Red Bay Castle is certainly a fine attraction in itself, but to make your visit even more memorable, take time to see Glenariff Forest Park, known as the “Queen of the Glens.” Glenariff features lush woodland trails, waterfalls, and panoramic views over the Antrim plateau — just a 10-minute drive from the castle.

A perfect way to finish a day filled with history and myth is a hike through some of Northern Ireland’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Although modest in comparison to other Irish strongholds, Red Bay Castle has its own unique history, jaw-dropping location, and its own brand of folklore. It is well worth a visit for those traveling along the Causeway Coast. 

Whatever your reason for visiting this forgotten fortress, the experience is uniquely Irish — whether you’re tracing ancient warriors’ footsteps, capturing coastal sunsets, or searching for ghostly apparitions and hidden tunnels.

Next time you’re planning a day trip along the Antrim coast, I’d recommend adding Red Bay Castle to your itinerary — every stone here has a story to tell.

Discover it. Explore it. Be part of history.