Set against the dramatic Atlantic coastline of County Sligo, Classiebawn Castle feels like something lifted straight from a storybook — but its history is just as fascinating as its striking silhouette.
Originally built for The 3rd Viscount Palmerston (1784–1865), this grand country house once stood at the heart of a sprawling 10,000-acre estate on the Mullaghmore Peninsula, near the village of Cliffoney. The Castle you see today mainly dates back to the late 19th century, when construction began on this windswept headland after an earlier plan to build on nearby Dernish Island proved impossible — fierce tides made a causeway unbuildable.
Designed by architect J. Rawson Carroll, F.R.I.A., the Castle is an enduring symbol of Victorian ambition. Lord Palmerston also left his mark by building the harbour at Mullaghmore and a row of fishermen’s cottages that still watch over the sea today.
Later, Classiebawn became closely associated with Lord Louis Mountbatten, a member of the British royal family, who used it as his beloved Irish holiday retreat until his tragic assassination nearby in 1979.
Intriguingly, some believe the standing stones placed below the Castle hint at the occult interests of Palmerston, Ashley, and Mountbatten — adding a touch of mystery to this already atmospheric place.
Classiebawn Castle was also the setting for a tragedy:
How Classiebawn Castle became Ireland’s most famous castle after the assassination of the Uncle of a Royal Prince.
The beautiful Benbulbin, the table mountain of Ireland, in the background makes this place a photographer’s dream location.
How would you like to have Benbulbin hanging on your wall?
More places in County Sligo
Drumcliffe County Sligo, the resting place of W.B. Yeats
Thomas Connoly, Sligo’s Oldest Pub
Benbulbin, The Table Mountain of Ireland
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