You would be forgiven if you have never seen or even heard of Gallows Tunnel in Newry as it is very well hidden at the top of Heather park.
Any poor unfortunate soul including many of Wolf Tones men sentenced to death by hanging during the 1700’s would have been led up this gruesome passageway to meet their impending doom on the Gallows that stood in front of them.
Incarcerated in their cold and dark cells before being forced at sword point by the Welsh Yeomanry up the Gallows Tunnel to their impending doom, witnessed by all the landed gentry who gathered at the foot of the gallows to witness the morbid spectacle which was seen as entertainment in those times.
Whoever decided to build a children’s play park at the entrance of the tunnel needs to take a good long hard look at themselves.
The Gallows Tunnel stands out as a fascinating, albeit somewhat eerie, relic of the past. This underground passageway, steeped in mystery and legend, offers a unique glimpse into Newry’s storied history.
The Gallows Tunnel dates back to the 18th century, a period when Newry was a bustling market town. It is believed that the tunnel served a grim purpose—transporting prisoners from the gaol (jail) to their final execution site at the gallows, located on what is now Gallows Hill. This journey, shrouded in darkness, was the last walk for many who had been sentenced to death.
The tunnel itself is a remarkable feat of engineering for its time. Constructed from stone and brick, it extends for several hundred meters beneath the town. While parts of it have collapsed or been sealed off over the years, much of the tunnel remains intact, a silent witness to the past.
Over the years, the Gallows Tunnel has become the subject of numerous legends and ghost stories. Locals speak of eerie sounds emanating from the depths of the tunnel, and some claim to have seen ghostly apparitions of former prisoners. These tales have only added to the tunnel’s mystique, drawing the curious and the brave to explore its dark recesses.
One of the most enduring legends is that of the United Irishmen who are said to haunt the tunnel, seeking revenge for their untimely demise. While there is little evidence to support such stories, they contribute to the tunnel’s aura of mystery and make it a popular topic among paranormal enthusiasts.
While the Gallows Tunnel is not officially open to the public due to safety concerns, it remains a point of interest for historians and urban explorers. Efforts have been made to preserve and study the tunnel, providing valuable insights into Newry’s past.
The Gallows Tunnel also serves as a reminder of the harsher aspects of Newry’s history. It offers a stark contrast to the vibrant, modern City that exists today, reminding residents and visitors alike of the progress that has been made over the centuries.
Newry’s Gallows Tunnel is more than just an underground passageway; it is a portal to the past, filled with stories of hardship, justice, and redemption. Whether viewed as a site of historical significance or a source of local folklore, the tunnel continues to captivate the imagination of those who encounter its story. As Newry evolves, the Gallows Tunnel remains a steadfast link to the town’s rich and varied history, inviting all who are interested to delve into its secrets.
