The Haunted Ballygally Castle, Co. Antrim

Ghosts of Ballygally Castle

It’s commonplace for a castle to have its own resident ghost, and Ballygally Castle Hotel is no different. However, this particular ghost has been haunting the castle for over 400 years. The ghost is said to be that of Lady Isobel Shaw, who was the wife of Lord James Shaw. Lord Shaw wanted a son to be his heir, however, when Lady Shaw couldn’t deliver a male heir he locked her up in a room at the top of the castle. In an escape attempt, it is believed Lady Shaw fell to her death.

Another theory is that Lord Shaw himself threw her to her death or he paid someone to do it. The ghost of Lady Isobel is said to be friendly and is regularly seen wandering around the old castle, perhaps in search of her beloved children. There are countless reports of eerie activity around the castle with several guests feeling a presence in their rooms, hearing unexplained noises, and witnessing the inexplicable.

A mysterious green mist has also been reported hovering above the castle. Ballygally Castle Hotel is proud of its resident ghost, dedicating a room to her in one of the towers in the older part of the castle…

About

Ideally located on the scenic Antrim coast only 20 miles from Belfast and close to Larne, the Ballygally Castle hotel faces the soft, sandy beaches of Ballygally Bay and is an ideal base for touring. The Ballygally Castle dates back to 1625 and the hotel is unique in that it is the only 17th Century building still used as a residence in Northern Ireland today!

This enchanting hotel is full of character and charm and has recently undergone extensive refurbishment, with the addition of 20 new deluxe bedrooms (including disabled access), bringing the total number of bedrooms to 44. The many original features and antique furnishings give the hotel a feeling of stylish living in the last century and add to the unique welcoming atmosphere! The famous “Nine Glens of Antrim” and the Giant’s Causeway are near at hand and the superb scenery can be enjoyed from many coastal and glen walks.

Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion or just get away from it all and relax in style – whatever the reason or season, the Ballygally will be delighted to welcome you! Complimentary car parking at the front of the hotel. The 44 bedrooms at the Ballygally Castle are full of character and charm. Beautiful, original beamed ceilings and antique pine furnishings give the rooms a feeling of stylish living in the last Century, with all the top facilities of a modern hotel. The beautiful Antrim suite with its superb views is popular with families, VIPs and visiting conference delegates.

Features

En-suite Facilities
International direct dial telephone
Remote control television with Satellite channels
Room service from 7.00am – 9.30pm
Complimentary tea and coffee making facilities
Trouser press and hair dryer
Laundry and dry-cleaning service

Things to do

The Ballygally Castle Hotel County Antrim has a wealth of recreational activities within easy reach and can serve as the perfect base for exploring this stunning area of outstanding natural beauty. Just a short drive from this luxury hotel in Northern Ireland are the famous Nine Glens of Antrim. From Glenariff to Glendun, the views and walks along this unique coastline are second to none.

Take time to travel along the North Coast, and visit the world famous Giant’s Causeway, the seaside resorts of Ballycastle and Portrush, or perhaps a quick trip to the Old Bushmills Distillery! Or head east to Carrickfergus Castle which is close at hand. Those wishing to explore on foot will enjoy the beautiful walks in Carnfunnock Country Park, which is within walking distance of the hotel, or you can simply enjoy a leisurely stroll on the beach opposite the hotel. As the hotel is only 5 miles from Larne harbour, travelling to and from Scotland is also very convenient. Angling is also very popular in the area, with both sea fishing and trout and salmon rivers all close at hand. Belfast is only 25miles away.