Journey back to 1622. Picture Sir William Parsons establishing Ballymount Castle. Ballymount Little, the townland where the castle stands, whispers tales of centuries past. Originally known as Bellamount, meaning “beautiful mount,” Ballymount Little takes its name from a Bronze Age burial mound. This mound, known as “The Motte,” predates the castle. It offers a glimpse into the area’s ancient history. Ballymount Castle, also called Kingswood Castle by locals, once stood proudly within a larger complex. Today, a weathered gatehouse remains. Its ivy-covered stones hint at the grandeur of bygone days. You can still walk through the archway of this gatehouse, imagining the people who once passed through it. A curious structure, known as John Butler’s Folly, sits atop The Motte. This sham ruin, built in the early 18th century by a resident of Ballymount House, adds another layer of intrigue to Ballymount Little’s story. Intended as a picturesque backdrop for a wedding celebration, the folly now stands as a testament to a whimsical moment in time. Ballymount Little is more than just a name on a map. It’s a place where echoes of different eras intertwine, where ancient burial mounds and whimsical follies coexist, a testament to the rich tapestry of human history woven into the fabric of this unique townland.
Saint John the Evangelist
Whispers of history echo from these stones. This is the site of Saint John the Evangelist. Once a vibrant church