Castle Freke

Imposing ruin of Castlefreke house overlooking Rosscarbery bay; built in late 18th century by Sir John Evans Freke to replace his earlier residence at Rathbarry Castle (CO143-074002-). Originally a classical structure of 2-storey over basement, 8-bay with 6-bay breakfront. Richard Morisson transformed house in 1820s by adding castellations, bartizans, castellated towers, gateway and portcullis (Bence-Jones 1978, 68). Many estate features survive including walled garden to NE; octagonal tower in woods to NW; farmyard to S incorporating Rathbarry Castle; Church of Ireland to E built adjacent ot Rathbarry church (CO143-076003-). Demesne enclosed by estate wall, with lodges and entrances piers. Imitation high cross on high ground to S; erected in 1901 in memory of the 9th Baron of Carbery who died 1898. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 1: West Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1992). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009