What is recorded here

Barrymore Bay, County Cork. A hidden tunnel once cut through the hill beside five ancient ringforts, likely serving as a secret escape or storage route for the people who lived there. Crofton Croker dug for the entrance but found only charcoal, proving the place existed even if the opening remains lost. The tunnel vanished back into the earth, leaving behind a warning that some human routes resist discovery.

On slope of hill, about 50 yards from either one of five ringforts intownland (CO064-102---; CO064-103---; CO064-104---; CO064-106---; CO064-107---). Crofton Croker shown position of 'the entrance to a passage or tunnel leading into the floor of that rath' (Gillman 1896, 421). A short 'excavation' by Croker did not locate the entrance although 'from the vast quantity of charcoal turned up there appeared to be little doubt that the information given was correct'. Exact location not known. The above description is derived from the published 'Archaeological Inventory of County Cork. Volume 2: East and South Cork' (Dublin: Stationery Office, 1994). In certain instances the entries have been revised and updated in the light of recent research. Date of upload/revision: 14 January 2009

The monument record does not grant public access. Check the route and ask the landowner before entering private land.