Why this matters
Rathdrum Castle was likely built by the Anglo-Normans in the 13th century. It is remembered as a strategic stronghold in the expansion of Norman influence into east County Wicklow.
Overview
Castle — Rathdrum is recorded as Castle — unclassified in Offaly. Situated on well drained pasture land with good views of the surrounding countryside. The site of Rathdrum Castle is situated on top of a circular mound which may been the remains of an Anglo-Norman motte (OF009-029002-).
Who built and held it
The saved account records: OS 6-inch map shows that the mound or motte was damaged on the S side by the construction of a building which had been built into the base of the mound on the S side.
Attack, change and use
The saved account records: In 1977 the monument was recorded and described as 'a large circular earthwork now partly destroyed.
What survives
The saved account records: There is no visible trace of a castle or wall footings.
Why it mattered
Castle — Rathdrum matters because the source ties castle — unclassified to this exact landscape and preserves evidence that a bare map name loses. The saved account adds: This head was described in 1944 as 'over the door of Rathdrum House adjoining is a very crude oval head with features only just shown.
History checked 15 August 2026 against the named sources below.
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