Ruinhunter - Coppinger’s Court

This fine castle was build, just outside the town of Rosscarbery, by Sir Walter Coppinger in 1618. It had a short and dramatic life as a dwelling, surviving only just over 20 years. Sir Walter was a tyrannical, ambitious fellow who planned to build an entire harbour town around the castle, which stands on low flat land between rural hills, near the coast. This plan was ruined by the 1641 Rebellion. He was a money-lender and gambler who surrendered his considerable estates to King James 1 in return for a title.

Several tales exist concerning the demise of the house. The most amusing story tells of how Sir Walter went to settle a dispute with a neighbour and left instructions that if he did not return, the castle was to be burned down to prevent it falling into the hands of his opponent. However, Sir Walter was the victor and, after celebrating his good fortune, returned home late only to find the house in flames.

It appears that, in fact, Sir Walter died in 1639 and the house was actually burned down by rebels in 1641. It is rumoured that one of these rebels was a younger son of Sir Walter, the eldest son having inherited the property.

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Coppinger’s Court, Rosscarbery, Co Cork
This fine castle was build, just outside the town of Rosscarbery, by Sir Walter Coppinger in 1618. It had a short and dramatic life as a dwelling, surviving only just over 20 years. Sir Walter was a tyrannical, ambitious fellow who planned to build an entire harbour town around the castle, which stands on low flat land between rural hills, near the coast. This plan was ruined by the 1641 Rebellion. He was a money-lender and gambler who surrendered his considerable estates to King James 1 in return for a title. Several tales exist concerning the demise of the house. The most amusing story tells of how Sir Walter went to settle a dispute with a neighbour and left instructions that if he did not return, the castle was to be burned down to prevent it falling into the hands of his opponent. However, Sir Walter was the victor and, after celebrating his good fortune, returned home late only to find the house in flames. It appears that, in fact, Sir Walter died in 1639 and the house was actually burned down by rebels in 1641. It is rumoured that one of these rebels was a younger son of Sir Walter, the eldest son having inherited the property.

This is a very picturesque ruin, signposted from Rosscarbery and approachable over a couple of fields. It has been so long empty that not much “atmosphere” remains however. It’s still worth a visit though! Map Reference: W 261359

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