The Gentle Haunting at Markree Castle

Although connected to Red Mary, infamous for her cruelty, the Markree Castle is believed to be haunted by the spirit of a young girl that likes when guests leave her presents.

In the enchanting landscapes of County Sligo, Markree Castle has witnessed centuries of change, echoing with the footsteps of generations who have called it home. Today it is a four star hotel on the Irish coastal route Wild Atlantic Way.

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Markree Castle has been the cherished seat of the Cooper family since 1663. Its walls have borne witness to the ebb and flow of time, holding within their confines the tales of those who lived, loved, and sometimes lingered beyond their years.

History of the Castle

In the 17th century, Markree Castle was originally allotted to Cornet Edward Cooper, a soldier who served under Cromwell. The castle had previously been a fortified outpost of the McDonagh Clan, guarding a river ford. After Edward married Marie Rua, widow of Conor O’Brien who died in battle, they lived at Dromoland Castle. The Red Mary has her own ghost story from another castle.

Their descendants continued to own Markree Castle, although there were periods when they had to flee due to political turmoil, such as during King James’s attempt to regain the throne and the Irish Civil War in the 1920s.

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In the 19th century, Col. Edward Joshua Cooper established Markree Observatory on the castle grounds, housing one of the world’s largest telescopes at the time. The castle underwent architectural changes in the 1800s and recorded Ireland’s lowest officially recognized air temperature in 1881.

Although connected to Red Mary, infamous for her cruelty, the Markree Castle is believed to be haunted by the spirit of a young girl that likes when guests leave her presents. — **Markree Castle:** This haunted castle in Sligo, Ireland, is said to be haunted by the ghost of a small girl. //Source: Wikimedia

In the 20th century, Bryan Cooper inherited the castle in 1902 and resided there with his family, except during World War I and political duties, until his death in 1930. After the Second World War, the castle was occupied by Bryan and Elizabeth Cooper until 1981. In 1992, it was converted into a hotel by Charles Cooper. The castle underwent renovations after being sold to the Corscadden family in 2015.

The Ghost Pippa Haunting Markree Castle

Unlike some other haunted dwellings that bear witness to darker, more sinister apparitions, Markree Castle’s ghosts are said to be of a gentler disposition. At the heart of its supernatural tales lies the spirit of a young child, whose tragic passing left an indelible mark on the castle’s soul.

The hauntings have become so regular over the years that the staff have named her Pippa and have even learned to manage her by leaving her little gifts.

The mischievous little spirit is believed to find amusement in playfully locking doors and causing staff to fumble with their plates. While some might find these antics unnerving, they serve as a reminder of the castle’s rich history and the lives that once thrived within its walls.

Visitors that have brought their children have experienced them being visited by this curious ghost. One guest found her 2 year old talking with no one and when asked, the child pointed to the corner, but there was no one there.

The Enigmatic Cellars

In the depths of Markree Castle’s cellars, where the past meets the present in a spectral dance, there have been reports of paranormal activities. These mysterious occurrences beckon those with a penchant for the supernatural to explore the castle’s hidden depths and perhaps glimpse the ethereal residents that call it home.

Markree Castle’s blend of history, elegance, and the supernatural makes it a captivating destination for adventurers and history enthusiasts alike on its 500 acres that are now a hotel.

As you wander through its corridors and explore its enigmatic cellars, keep an eye out for the mischievous spirit who reminds us that even in the afterlife, there’s room for a bit of playful fun.