Quoile Castle County Down.

(Choill Wood.)
Quoile Countryside Centre.

Quoile Castle is a 16th century tower house partly restored. The exact date of its construction is unknown, it is not shown on a map of 1568, but was in existence in the early 16th century when it was called Casllancoyll (Castle of the wood) It was rebuilt in the late 16th early 17th century by the West family. The castle was originally surrounded on two sides by tidal water, this was in-filled in the early 19th century.

The castle is oblong measuring 33 feet by 27 feet. most of the front wall (West) has fallen away, the castle was restored in the 1980's Prior to the instillation of the Quoile Barrier in xxxx the sea would have approached the base of the tower during periods of spring tides. The ground floor consists of a barrel vaulted room, traces of the original wicker can be seen in the roof, a straight stone staircase leads to the first floor in this room is a fireplace, part of a division wall remains. A further flight of stairs (Not accessible to the public) lead to the top floor. A report from 1836 states that the ground floor of the castle was used as a cow house and other parts were thatched.

An old photograph of Quoile castle shows a dwelling house on its southern side, this has been tastefully restored and now houses the Quoile Countryside Centre, in it there is much information relating to the wildlife of the immediate area and nearby Strangford Lough. You will find tips about organic gardening, you can examine a traditional wicker lobster creel and its modern counterpart, many historical artifacts are on display such as fire irons, an apple press etc.

The grounds in which Quoile Castle stands are deserving of a special mention, they are a haven of peace and tranquility and are exceptionally well maintained. You can see a very good example of raised bed organic gardening just outside the main building. Friendly staff are on hand to advise on anything relating to displays in the centre or the immediate area, or indeed other sites operated by the DOE

Quoile Castle, images of the castle.