Our Story
Castle House stands at the heart of Warrenpoint - a graceful Georgian residence built around 1845 and shaped by nearly two centuries of local history. A listed building of architectural and historic significance, its story is inseparable from the town’s own journey, from seaside hamlet to thriving harbour to the welcoming destination it is today.
The land belonged to the Hall family of Narrow Water Castle, influential landowners who guided much of Warrenpoint’s early development. By the mid-19th century, the town was flourishing, fuelled by the arrival of rail in 1849, the growth of tourism, and expanding trade across Carlingford Lough. It was during this period of optimism that Castle House appeared on the map.
Believed to have been designed by architect Thomas John Duff or his apprentice William Barre, the house blends Regency elegance with subtle ecclesiastical influences drawn from neighbouring St Peter’s Chapel. Tall sash windows, a Gothic front door, generous proportions and refined symmetry give the building a distinctive presence within the town’s historic streetscape.
In 1854, Castle House passed from Roger Hall to James Townley Halyday through a Fee Farm Grant still preserved today. Halyday, a prosperous Newry merchant, held the house until his death, when it transferred to his associate and probable relative, solicitor Joseph Mayne. The Mayne family would shape Castle House for the next five decades, culminating in the residency of Dr William Hariot Mayne II, an acclaimed physician, researcher and passionate sailor who brought civic energy and intellectual life to the home.
After Dr Mayne’s death in 1930, Castle House entered a new era of private ownership. Through the mid and late 20th century it passed through several families — Connolly, McCarey, Devlin, McCullough and finally McVeigh — each leaving their mark as the house weathered changing times. Yet by the early 2000s the building had begun to fade, sitting largely vacant and waiting for careful hands to restore its beauty.
A turning point came in October 2023, when Heinrich (Rick) Louw and Brian Mullan became the newest custodians of Castle House. Drawn by its architecture, its connection to Narrow Water Castle, and its place in the story of Warrenpoint, they saw not a dilapidated structure but a heritage treasure ready to be revived.
Their restoration, guided by conservation principles and Historic Environment Division NI, focuses on authenticity: lime-based materials, vapour-open systems, preserved Georgian features, and discreet integration of modern comforts. Local craftspeople play a central role in bringing the house back to life with respect and sensitivity.
In mid-2026, Castle House will begin a new chapter as a five-bedroom luxury boutique guesthouse, offering guests the chance to experience a place where history and hospitality meet. For Rick and Brian, stewardship is an honour and a promise to protect the spirit of this remarkable home while sharing its warmth and story with all who step inside.
Castle House is history restored,
a home reawakened,
and a story still unfolding.
Download our history booklet by clicking on the button below