15th century · Medieval Carlingford
The Tholsel
The last gate of the walled town
The story
Carlingford received permission to collect a wall tax in 1326. The later medieval walls enclosed the port town, and the Tholsel is the only one of its principal gates to survive.
Goods entering here could be taxed. In later centuries the building also served the Corporation of Carlingford as a meeting place and was used as a town gaol.
Originally three storeys high, the gate was altered in the nineteenth century. Its vaulted passage still marks the threshold between the modern village and the tightly grained medieval street plan.
Visiting responsibly
See it in the village.
Walk beneath the gate into Tholsel Street. It is an active public passage, so watch for other street users.