Gap of the North and Moyry Castle

Overview

The Gap of the North – traditionally known as Moyry Pass – is a narrow mountain corridor that cuts the Slieve Gullion ridge between Newry and Dundalk. Its sheer limestone walls rise sharply on either side, offering sweeping vistas of drumlin countryside and the distant Mourne Mountains. The pass lies at 54.17303 °N, ‑6.33594 °W in County Armagh, marking the historic frontier between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Perched on a solid rock outcrop above the road is Moyry Castle, a three‑storey stone tower that once commanded the passage.

History / Background

From the early medieval period the Gap of the North was more than a scenic shortcut – it was a strategic choke‑point controlling the main artery between Ulster and The Pale. In 1600 Irish forces under Hugh O’Neill, Earl of Tyrone, fought the Battle of Moyry Pass, exploiting the narrow defiles and steep slopes. After the battle, the English Crown ordered a permanent fortification. In June 1601 Lord Mountjoy (Charles Blout), Lord Deputy of Ireland, erected Moyry Castle to secure the corridor during the closing stages of the Nine Years’ War. The almost square tower, about 7 m on each side, featured rounded corners and musketry loopholes on all walls except the north side, which housed external fireplaces.

The castle was garrisoned by a constable and a dozen men, but its control changed hands repeatedly. In 1641 Confederate Irish forces seized the stronghold, and in the summer of 1690 the Duke of Schomberg led Williamite troops through the pass on the way to the Battle of the Boyne. A skirmish on 23 June 1690 saw Lieutenant Colonel Laurence Dempsey and Lieutenant Colonel Fitzgerald ambush a Williamite detachment near the stone bridge at Jonesborough. Local folklore adds a darker hue: a tale tells of a wizard shot by the warder and his massive black cat that allegedly terrorised the garrison, a story that lives on as the “Cat of Moyry Castle”.

What to See & Do

• Moyry Castle Ruins – The State Care Historic Monument is freely accessible year‑round. Visitors can explore the three‑storey tower’s surviving walls, gun‑loops, rounded corners and a fragment of the surrounding bawn. The roofless interior hints at the original layout, while the summit provides panoramic views across former bogland to the silhouette of Slieve Gullion.
• Scenic Walks & Drives – The A1 Newry‑Dundalk road runs through the pass, offering pull‑over points for cyclists, motorists and photographers. The heritage trail links the Gap to the Ring of Gullion, ancient cairns on Slieve Gullion and the medieval streets of Newry.
• Interpretive Exhibits – The Newry & Mourne Museum at Bagenal’s Castle hosts a permanent exhibition on the Gap of the North. Interactive displays cover the military history, the geology of the Slieve Gullion ring dyke and the cultural significance of the corridor. Audio guides and a hearing‑loop system are available.
• Folklore & Photography – The “Cat of Moyry Castle” legend adds a touch of mystery, while the dramatic limestone cliffs provide striking backdrops for landscape photography.

Getting There

• By Car – The Gap lies directly on the A1 dual‑carriageway between Newry and Dundalk. There are short lay‑by parking areas at the castle site and a larger pull‑over area for motorists who wish to stop for photos or a short walk.
• By Bus – Regular Translink services run between Newry and Dundalk and stop at the nearby Jonesborough bus stop (approximately 2 km from the castle). From the stop, a well‑marked footpath leads to the heritage trail.
• On Foot or Cycle – The heritage trail is suitable for walkers and cyclists of moderate ability. The route is sign‑posted and connects to the wider Ring of Gullion network, allowing longer day‑trips.

Walking & Cycling Routes

The Gap of the North Heritage Trail is a 3 km loop that starts at the castle car‑park, follows the historic road through the pass, and returns via a scenic ridge walk offering views of the surrounding drumlins. The trail is part of the Ring of Gullion long‑distance walking circuit, which can be extended to include the Camlough lake area and the Ballymoyer Woodland trail (Ballymoyer Woodland). Cyclists can use the A1 shoulder and the quieter side‑road sections for a pleasant ride through the limestone corridor.

Nearby Attractions

• Ring of Gullion – A UNESCO Global Geopark surrounding Slieve Gullion, featuring ancient cairns, stone circles and panoramic viewpoints.
• Dromintee – A charming village at the foot of the ring dyke, ideal for a coffee stop and a short walk to the Cailleach a’ Bheara sacred lake (Cailleach a’ Bheara).
• Ballymoyer Estate – Woodlands, a historic church and walking trails just a few kilometres north of the Gap.
• Newry & Mourne Museum – Located in Bagenal’s Castle, offering deeper insight into the area’s history.

Seasonal Highlights

• Spring – Wildflowers begin to carpet the limestone grassland, making the pass a colourful backdrop for photography.
• Summer – Longer daylight hours allow for full‑day hikes along the Ring of Gullion and opportunities to hear local musicians performing at nearby village pubs.
• Autumn – The surrounding drumlins turn gold and amber, providing striking contrast against the grey limestone walls.
• Winter – When snow dusts the higher ground, the Gap offers dramatic, moody scenery; however, walkers should be prepared for strong winds and icy patches.

Wildlife & Landscape

The limestone habitat supports a range of flora such as early‑purple orchids and rock‑rose. Birdwatchers may spot species like the raven, kestrel and occasional migratory waders on the nearby river valleys. The open vistas also make the area popular with photographers and painters seeking the unique light that the gap creates.

Practical Information