Rostellan Castle

Large early-mid 18th century house, possibly incorporating castle (CO088-024---); front probably of 6 bays between two 3-sided bows; prominent string courses and quoins; 19th century Gothic 'chapel wing'flanking front; demolished in 1944 (Bence-Jones 1978, 248). Several estate features survies: a walled garden, now forested; crenellated waterfront wall and remains of terrace of battery-like appearance; a free-standing doric column named 'Pedestal' on 1934 OS 6-inch map. A long beach to NW of house site is 'Siddon's Tower' named 'Bathing Ho.' on 1842 OS 6-inch map. Built in late18th century by the 5th Earl of Inchiquin 'in honour of Mrs Siddons (Bence-Jones ibid.). Roofless circular structure (diam. 5.14m); door opefacing E; three window opes looking seaward (W); fireplace inside; crenellated parapet. Lower courses (H c. 3m), slightly larger in diameter with base batter, possibly of earlier construction. Slab from house carved with arms of William O'Brien (1694-1777), now in Cork Public Museum (MacCarthy 1992, 147). Three cut limestone milestones on wall of causeway to S, dated 1734 (see photo Mould 1991, 182). 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