The History of Narrow Water Castle & Warrenpoint’s Rich Past
A Fortress on the Banks of the Newry River
Narrow Water Castle and Narrow Water Keep are two of the most historically significant landmarks in Warrenpoint.
While many refer to them interchangeably, they are distinct structures, each representing different periods of Irish history.
- Narrow Water Keep is a 16th-century defensive tower that played a key role in various conflicts, including the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later military actions.
- Narrow Water Castle, built in the 19th century, is a Victorian-era mansion that became a symbol of aristocratic life in the region.
The area has witnessed centuries of war, political change, and tragedy, including one of the most infamous events of The Troubles—the Narrow Water Bombing.
The story of Narrow Water doesn’t end with its past—its future is unfolding right now.
👉 See how the castle and bridge are shaping the next chapter for Warrenpoint
Narrow Water Keep: A Stronghold in Warrenpoint’s Military History
Origins & Strategic Importance
The English Crown constructed Narrow Water Keep in the 1560s as a key defensive structure to protect the Newry River, which served as a major trade and supply route.
The keep was positioned near Carlingford Lough, offering a strategic advantage in controlling movement between the Irish Sea and inland settlements.
The Keep’s architecture was built for war:
- Thick stone walls designed to withstand cannon fire.
- Narrow windows and arrow slits for defensive combat.
- A fortified entrance to repel attacks from invading forces.
It became a critical stronghold in a series of conflicts over the next few centuries.
Want to explore the full history and future of Narrow Water Castle & Bridge?
👉 Read our complete guide here
Narrow Water Keep in the Irish Rebellion of 1641
During the Irish Rebellion of 1641, the Keep was attacked and captured by Irish forces fighting against English and Scottish settlers who had taken over lands during the Plantation of Ulster.
It changed hands multiple times throughout the rebellion, highlighting its military importance in Warrenpoint’s history.
The Keep remained in English control until warfare tactics evolved, rendering it obsolete.
By the 18th century, it was abandoned and left to decay.
Today, its ruins stand as a reminder of Warrenpoint’s turbulent past.
Narrow Water Castle: From Aristocratic Residence to Historical Landmark
Construction & the Hall Family Legacy
Unlike the Keep, Narrow Water Castle was built in the 1830s as a Victorian-era estate for the Hall family, wealthy landowners in Warrenpoint.
The Hall family’s residence was a statement of wealth and power:
- Gothic Revival architecture, featuring turrets and intricate stonework.
- Expansive gardens designed for leisure, not defense.
- Large windows and high ceilings, contrasting with the Keep’s compact, military design.
For generations, the Hall family hosted grand events and gatherings, making Narrow Water Castle a social and cultural hub in Warrenpoint.
The Castle’s Role in Modern Times
As estates became harder to maintain in the 20th century, Narrow Water Castle shifted from a private home to a historical site.
Today, it remains privately owned, but it is occasionally opened to the public for:
- Weddings & private events.
- Historical tours, showcasing the Hall family legacy.
- Seasonal attractions, including the famous Santa Experience.
While the castle is a symbol of Warrenpoint’s aristocratic past, the surrounding area also holds a darker chapter in Irish history—one that unfolded near the ruins of Narrow Water Keep.
While the castle stands as a reminder of the past, the bridge is a promise of the future.
👉 Explore how Narrow Water is evolving into a new era of connection and progress.
The Narrow Water Bombing: A Defining Moment in The Troubles
The Warrenpoint Ambush & Its Historical Context
By the late 20th century, Warrenpoint became a flashpoint in The Troubles, a conflict between Irish Republicans, British forces, and Unionists that lasted from the 1960s to the 1990s.
One of the most deadly attacks of the conflict occurred on August 27, 1979, near the site of Narrow Water Keep.
The Narrow Water Bombing, also referred to as the Warrenpoint Ambush, was a planned attack by the Provisional IRA targeting a British Army convoy passing by the Keep.
Timeline of the Attack
- First Explosion (16:40 PM):
- A 500lb bomb, hidden in a hay lorry, detonated as a convoy of British soldiers passed by the Keep.
- Six soldiers were killed instantly.
- Reinforcements were rushed to the scene, unknowingly walking into a second trap.
- Second Explosion (16:52 PM):
- A second, more powerful bomb was detonated across the river, directly targeting British troops responding to the first blast.
- Twelve more soldiers were killed.
- A civilian, Michael Hudson, was also caught in the crossfire and killed.
Aftermath & Memorialisation
The attack was the deadliest single loss of life for the British Army during The Troubles.
Today, a memorial near Narrow Water Keep honours the soldiers killed in the attack.
Warrenpoint’s history has been shaped by both conflict and resilience.
👉 See how Narrow Water Castle and the new bridge are redefining the landscape today.
Preserving History & Remembering Warrenpoint’s Past
Why Narrow Water Castle & Keep Matter Today
These landmarks represent two different but equally important aspects of Warrenpoint’s history:
- Narrow Water Keep reflects Ireland’s medieval military history and colonial struggles.
- Narrow Water Castle showcases Victorian aristocracy and architectural grandeur.
- The Narrow Water Bombing site serves as a reminder of conflict and the path to reconciliation.
Visiting Narrow Water Today
For history enthusiasts and visitors to Warrenpoint, these sites offer:
- Ruins of Narrow Water Keep – Walk the grounds of this 16th-century fortress.
- Guided Tours of Narrow Water Castle – Experience the Hall family’s legacy.
- Memorial near Narrow Water Keep – A site for reflection and remembrance.
Discover the full history of Narrow Water Castle, its role in Ireland’s past, and how the Narrow Water Bridge will shape its future in our in-depth guide on Narrow Water’s legacy