Moydrum Castle: A Ruined Gothic Revival Gem

Moydrum Castle, situated in County Westmeath just east of Athlone, is a striking ruin with a rich and complex history. Originally built in 1812 by architect Richard Morrison for William Handcock, the 1st Baron Castlemaine, the castle was designed in the Gothic Revival style, befitting Handcock's elevated status. The Handcock family had been granted the lands in the 17th century during the Cromwellian plantations.The castle's grandeur was short-lived. During the Irish War of Independence, the Irish Republican Army (IRA) burned Moydrum Castle on July 3, 1921, in retaliation for the burning of local farmsteads by British forces. Though Lord Castlemaine wasn't present, his wife and daughter were given time to gather belongings before the castle was set ablaze. The destruction was complete, and the family never returned.Today, Moydrum Castle stands as a picturesque ruin, its walls covered in ivy. Despite its state, the castle retains its Gothic charm and is a popular attraction. It gained further recognition when a photograph of the castle was used as the cover art for U2's 1984 album, "The Unforgettable Fire". The site is privately owned, and while access to the interior may be restricted and potentially dangerous, the exterior offers ample photo opportunities. Some interior walls are covered in U2 related graffiti.