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Ballymena, near the birthplace of Alexander Campbell, September 12, 1788

Downtown Ballymena, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

Alexander Campbell was born about a mile from Shane's Castle. As a child, he would have played on the grounds of the old Castle. The castle was destroyed by fire in 1816, eight years after the Campbells had made their way to America. In 1847 when Campbell visited Ireland for the last time, he traveled too far south of Lough Neigh, but perhaps would have recalled the days of his youth when living near the castle.

When visiting the Shane Castle grounds in July, 2011, the proprieters were unwilling to allow access to the ruins. As it is still a working farm, the castle grounds are private property. The ruins are opened to the public on certain days each year. If planning a visit to the area, be sure to check ahead of time as to whether you can visit the castle grounds.

A6, Castle Road, Near Antrim / Walls around the compound of Shane's Castle

Access Road to Shane's Castle

Shane's Castle Grounds

Entrance Leading Toward Old Castle Grounds

Generic photos found online of the Shane Castle Ruins