Martello tower in Ardagh, County Cork

What is recorded here

Freestanding circular-plan three-stage Martello tower with bastion, built c.1805. Now vacant. Recent timber flight of stairs to entrance. Flat coursed limestone and concrete roof with blocked gun emplacement and parapets with recent marble coping. Coursed limestone walls with string course, corbels to bastion and plaque. Camber-headed door opening with replacement timber battened door. Associated buildings to north.

Through its distinctive form and siting at the top of a hill, close to a second similar tower, this tower makes a significant contribution to both the defensive and architectural heritage of Bere Island. Bere Island was recognized as being of great strategic importance following an attempted French invasion of Ireland in 1796. The British built four Martello towers and a signal tower on the island, as part of a chain of defence along the coast, in anticipation of any further attempts.

From the Buildings of Ireland (National Inventory of Architectural Heritage) record 20912818

This does not grant access. Most recorded buildings are privately owned; view them only from public ground unless the owner allows entry.