Howth Castle
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Howth Castle lies close to the village of Howth, north of the city of Dublin in Ireland. It is the ancestral home of the Earl of Howth, now the Gaisford St. Lawrence family.
The great English architect Sir Edwin Lutyens restyled this 14th century castle overlooking Dublin Bay. The grounds are also noted for its wild rhododendron gardens. The National Transport Museum of Ireland is located in the grounds of the castle. It features lorries, trucks, fire engines and tractors. Also exhibited is the restored Hill of Howth No.9 Tram.
A popular legend about the Castle concerns an incident that apparently occurred in 1576. During a trip from Dublin, the pirate Grace O'Malley attempted to pay a courtesy visit to the 8th Baron Howth. However, she was informed that the family was at dinner and the castle gates were closed against her. In retailation, she abducted the grandson and heir, the 10th Baron. He was eventually released when a promise was given to keep the gates open to unexpected visitors, and to set an extra place at every meal. At Howth Castle today, this agreement is still honoured by the decendents of the Baron.
