Dunluce and Dundrum castles honoured in new Royal Mail stamp collection

Two of Northern Ireland’s most iconic historic landmarks are set to appear on millions of letters, parcels and collector items across the UK after Royal Mail unveiled a major new stamp collection celebrating some of Britain and Ireland’s most remarkable castles.

Dunluce Castle on the North Antrim Coast and Dundrum Castle in County Down have both been selected for inclusion in a new 12-stamp series showcasing the architectural brilliance, military history and enduring cultural significance of castles from across the nations of the UK.

The announcement places two of Northern Ireland’s best-known heritage sites alongside world-famous landmarks including Windsor Castle, Stirling Castle, Warwick Castle and Bamburgh Castle in what Royal Mail describes as a celebration of the “skill, ambition and design” behind the country’s most historic fortifications.

Dunluce Castle takes centre stage in UK-wide collection

Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop above the Atlantic Ocean, Dunluce Castle is one of the most recognisable images associated with Northern Ireland tourism.

The 16th century fortress, originally built by the MacQuillans before later becoming associated with the MacDonnell clan, was highlighted by Royal Mail for both its striking coastal position and its role in the turbulent history of Ulster during the early 1600s.

Royal Mail’s official description notes how the castle featured in attempts by the English Crown to secure and colonise Ireland in the 17th century.

The organisation said a 1604 grant confirming Randal MacDonnell’s lands in Ulster proposed the establishment of “a fort or garrison” at Dunluce, while a visitor in 1611 described “a good house of stone with many lodgings” inside its walls.

The stamp issue also references the nearby settlement populated largely by Scottish colonists who crossed the narrow sea to Ulster during the Plantation era.

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons said Dunluce Castle’s inclusion reflected its status as one of Northern Ireland’s most treasured heritage attractions.

He said:

“Dunluce Castle in County Antrim is one of Northern Ireland’s most recognisable and loved historic sites, dramatically sited on the Antrim coast.”

The castle, located close to Bushmills and the Giant’s Causeway, remains one of the most photographed visitor attractions on the island of Ireland and has also gained global exposure in recent years through television and tourism campaigns.

Dundrum Castle recognised for nearly 850 years of history

Dundrum Castle, overlooking Dundrum Bay beneath the Mourne Mountains, also features prominently in the collection.

Royal Mail described the County Down stronghold as one of the earliest castles established by Anglo-Norman adventurers seeking territory in Ireland from the 1170s onward.

Strategically positioned on a hill commanding natural harbour access and extensive beaches, the castle played an important role in securing links with the west coasts of England and Wales.

According to the official historical notes accompanying the release, the exact origins of Dundrum Castle remain uncertain, although it is believed to have been founded by John de Courcy before later passing to Hugh de Lacy, Earl of Ulster, who is thought to have constructed its dominant circular keep around 1211.

Minister Lyons said the site’s inclusion offered another opportunity to promote Northern Ireland’s tourism and heritage offering to a UK-wide audience.

He added:

“Dundrum Castle in County Down which was founded nearly 850 years ago has spectacular views across Dundrum Bay and the Mournes and is an important local landmark.

“Their inclusion in this collection is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the sites to audiences across the UK and encourage them to experience their unique character and setting for themselves.”

Royal Mail celebrates castles across all four nations

The wider stamp collection features eight castles spanning England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The main set includes:

• Dunluce Castle

• Dundrum Castle

• Castell Rhaglan | Raglan Castle

• Castell Penfro | Pembroke Castle

• Urquhart Castle

• Stirling Castle

• Warwick Castle

• Bamburgh Castle

A further four stamps, presented in a miniature sheet, focus specifically on royal castles and feature newly commissioned artwork by British illustrator Rob Ball.

Those castles are:

• Castell Caernarfon / Caernarfon Castle

• Windsor Castle

• Dover Castle

• Balmoral Castle

Ball, who has worked as a graphic designer and illustrator since 2000, is widely known for his acclaimed poster series created for HBO’s Game of Thrones.

Tourism and economic significance highlighted

The stamp issue has also sparked discussion around the wider economic value of Northern Ireland’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Ulster Unionist Party Leader & North Antrim MLA Jon Burrows welcomed the inclusion of both Northern Ireland castles, describing them as symbols of the region’s tourism potential and international appeal.

He said:

“It’s fantastic to see Dunluce and Dundrum Castles featured in the new Royal Mail stamp collection celebrating iconic castles across the UK. These are not just historic sites – they are living symbols of our world-class coastline, heritage, and tourism offer here in Northern Ireland.

“From the dramatic cliffs of the North Coast to the sweeping views of Co Down, NI continues to showcase landscapes and heritage that are truly unmatched. We were proud to highlight Northern Ireland in Washington recently as a place to visit, invest, and do business – and this latest recognition reinforces that message.”

He also used the announcement to renew calls for stronger support for the tourism and hospitality sector, warning Northern Ireland must remain competitive against the Republic of Ireland.

“But we must do more to support the people who keep our tourism and hospitality sector thriving. With the Republic of Ireland maintaining a significantly lower VAT rate for tourism, it’s time we seriously consider how we remain competitive and ensure NI is not left behind.

“Backing tourism means backing jobs, growth, and our local economy. A strong hospitality sector is essential to unlocking the full potential of what Northern Ireland has to offer.”

Castles remain central to UK heritage story

Royal Mail said the collection explores how castles evolved from military strongholds into aristocratic residences and enduring national landmarks.

The organisation noted that castles first emerged in England during the 11th century before spreading throughout the British Isles during the expansion of Anglo-Norman power.

Many later became focal points for royal authority, warfare and regional identity, while others fell into ruin during conflicts such as the Civil Wars of the 1640s before experiencing renewed interest centuries later.

Today, castles remain among the UK’s most visited heritage attractions and continue to play a major role in tourism, education and cultural identity.

The stamps and accompanying collectible products are available to pre-order from today, 14 May, through Royal Mail at www.royalmail.com/castles or by telephone on 03457 641641.

A Presentation Pack containing all 12 stamps is priced at £22.50, with the collection going on general sale from 21 May.