Castle Roche is one of the most striking Anglo-Norman castles in Ireland and can be viewed for miles around. Located on a rocky hilltop, it commands wonderful views of the surrounding countryside.

The site of the castle marked the boundary between the Gaelic province of Ulster and the Anglo-Norman 'Pale' and overlooked an ancient route into what is now south Armagh.

The castle itself comprised a great hall, which may have been up to three storeys high.

Legend

The Castle is believed to have been built in 1236 by Lady Rohesia de Verdun after the death of her husband. The story goes that she promised her hand in marriage to the architect who would build her a castle at Roche. When he went to claim her hand, she had him thrown from one of the windows, which to this day is known as the 'murder window'.

Please Note: There is no car park so take care parking on the side of the road close to the castle. Access to the castle is via farm gates – it’s important to keep these gates clear of cars and close them after use as the site is on private farmland. The castle is located on rough and rocky terrain with steep drops so care needs to be taken when visiting.

The site is signposted locally, 7km northwest of Dundalk, Dungooley Road out of Forkhill.