Antrim Castle
Antrim Castle, located in Antrim, Northern Ireland, was constructed in the early 17th century by Sir Hugh Clotworthy. The castle served as the ancestral home of the Skeffington family, later known as the Massereene family, for over 300 years. In 1922, a devastating fire destroyed much of the castle, leaving only ruins and the castle gardens.
The castle grounds are steeped in paranormal lore. One of the most famous ghost stories involves the “White Lady,” believed to be the spirit of Ethel Gilligan, a maid who perished in the 1922 fire. Witnesses have reported seeing her apparition near the castle ruins and in the gardens, often accompanied by the smell of smoke.
Another frequently reported spirit is that of a young girl in Victorian-era clothing, seen playing in the castle grounds. Some speculate she may be connected to the Massereene family, though her identity remains unknown.
The castle’s long history has given rise to tales of spectral soldiers, possibly dating back to the 1649 siege during the Irish Confederate Wars. Visitors have reported hearing phantom footsteps and seeing shadowy figures in military attire.
One of the more chilling legends involves the “Wolfhound of Antrim Castle.” This spectral canine is said to appear as an omen of impending doom for the Massereene family. Sightings of the ghostly dog reportedly preceded tragic events in the family’s history.
The castle’s Italian Tower, which survived the fire, is also a hotspot for paranormal activity. Visitors have reported feeling sudden cold spots, hearing unexplained noises, and experiencing an overwhelming sense of being watched while in or near the tower.
Address
Antrim Castle, Deerpark Bridge, Antrim, BT41 4DN, United KingdomDeerpark Bridge
BT41 4DN Antrim, Northern Ireland,