Carlingford - City of Ireland

Carlingford is a picturesque, coastal village in northern County Louth, Ireland. It is situated between Carlingford Lough and Slieve Foy.

Carlingford has many streets with a medieval aspect - the main one being Tholsel Street.

Carlingford was settled approximately 800 years ago by Norman knight Hugh de Lacy after laying the foundation stone to a castle on a strategic outcrop of rock. As was common in those days, a settlement sprang up, close to this fortress.

Carlingford’s strategic position on the east coast of Ireland made it a vital trading port. This trade led to its relative prosperity during the 14th, 15th and early 16th Centuries. Carlingford's early prosperity was rocked, when in 1388, the town was burnt to the ground, by a Scots force under the command of Sir William Douglas of Nithsdale. This was a punitive raid, following Irish attacks on Galloway, the Lord of which was Nithsdale's father, Archibald the Grim.

Carlingford’s inability to develop a heavy industry allowed for its medieval charm and archaeological artefacts to remain relatively intact. This led directly to tourism being the main source of employment. Also significant is fishing, particularly of oysters and crabs from the nearby harbour. A daily passenger ferry operates out of the village of Omeath, 5 km away, during the summer months. Carlingford has expanded in recent years, the most recent addition being of a Four Season’s Hotel.

Originally owned by Patrick Joseph O'Hare the pub was sold after his death in 1991. Since then it has passed through two sets of owners before the present owner extended it to its current size. Known locally as PJs or just O'Hare's the Anchor Bar is centrally located and is popular with locals and tourists alike. The Leprechaun bones and artifacts on display draw some amusement and are a tribute to PJ who started the Lephrechaun Hunt that used to be held in May every year.

Places of Interest

King John’s Castle
Taaffe’s Castle
The Tholsel
Dominican Friary
Town Wall
Church of the Holy Trinity
De Gaulle