Top 7 Castles around Long Island
Best castles around Long Island offer a glimpse into a bygone era of grandeur, reflecting the opulent Gilded Age on its North Shore, famously known as the Gold Coast. This region is home to magnificent historical estates, characterized by impressive architecture and expansive grounds. Visitors can explore these properties to experience a unique blend of history and natural beauty. The area provides opportunities to discover historical sites and enjoy the surrounding landscapes.
Best castles around Long Island
- The most popular castles is Enniskillen Castle, a historical site that tells stories from Irish rebellions to sieges. Visitors can explore the castle grounds and a museum detailing the region's history.
- Another must-see spot is Old Castle Archdale, a historical castle situated on a forest clifftop. This 17th-century castle, built by John Archdale, offers crumbling walls to wander and imagine life centuries ago.
- Visitors also love Necarne Castle, a historical site that was once called Irvine Castle. It was in use as a military hospital during WWII and is now a ruin overtaken by plant life.
- Long Island is known for historical sites, castles, and man-made monuments. The region offers a variety of castles to see and explore, each with its own unique history and architectural style.
- The castles around Long Island are appreciated by the komoot community, with 8 upvotes and 10 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 30, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
In the 1950s, the castle was decommissioned as an army barracks and opened as a heritage centre. Today, you can visit the museum to learn about the region's history. The castle is open from 9.30am to 5pm (Monday to Friday) and from 11am - 5pm on weekends.
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Old Castle Archdale
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
Highlight • Monument
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Castle Coole
Highlight • Castle
The house was originally constructed as a summer retreat and cost £57,000, the equivalent of around £20 million today. It is set amongst beautiful parklands dotted with oak, ash and beech trees. Some of the land is given to local farmers to graze their cattle and sheep.
You can visit the mansion and its grounds for an insight of how life would once have been for its wealthy inhabitants and their staff. Entrance to the grounds costs £5 per adult.
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Necarne Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
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The magnificent Enniskillen Castle is situated in the heart of Enniskillen on the banks of the River Erne. The castle was founded in the 15th century by Hugh 'The Hospitable' Maguire and belonged to the Maguire family for centuries. Between 2007 and 2013 a massive refurbishment took place so that the castle could be opened to the public. Today you can explore the castle grounds and learn about this landmarks rich history.
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Run past the beautiful Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th century manor house set in a gorgeous 1,200 acre wooded landscape park.
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During WW2 Castle Archdale was a major base for flying boats and housed up to 2,500 people. Buildings such as these would have been a central location for the RAF fighters who lived here. Sometimes exhibitions are held in these courtyards to display some of the key historical notes of the use of this area during the war.
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Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle was built in the 1600s and was the main castle on this former estate before its successor took it's place in the 1800s, Castle Archdale.
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Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop. It is named 'old' to distinguish it from its successor, the 18th century Castle Archdale. The castle was built by an Englishman from Suffolk who had been granted the estate in 1612 after paying 5 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence for the 1000 acres of land. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641 the castle was captured by Rory Maguire as part of the uprising to retake his lands that had been lost in 1607. The heir to the castle was saved by his nurse however the other children were killed. After the castle was returned to the family it was repaired and lived in until 1689. The castle saw its end during the Williamite Wars when the castle was burnt out and abandoned.
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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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Castle Coole is one of the most magnificent Neo-classical houses in Ireland set in a 1,200 acre (490 ha) wooded estate. Built in the 18th century, the grand mansion was home to the Earls of Belmore. The 7th Earl Belmore gave the manion to the National Trust in 1951. The house was originally constructed as a summer retreat and cost £57,000, the equivalent of around £20 million today. It is set amongst beautiful parklands dotted with oak, ash and beech trees. Some of the land is given to local farmers to graze their cattle and sheep. You can visit the mansion and its grounds for an insight of how life would once have been for its wealthy inhabitants and their staff. Entrance to the grounds costs £5 per adult.
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Perched atop a cliff and surrounded by thick forest, it's easy to imagine how life would have been hundreds of years ago as you wander the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale. Built in 1615 by Englishman John Archdale, the castle was captured by the Irish in the Irish Rebellion of 1641. The castle was inhabited until 1689, when it was destroyed by fire and abandoned.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of 'castles' can I expect to find on Long Island?
Long Island is home to magnificent estates, often referred to as 'castles,' that reflect the opulent Gilded Age on its North Shore, known as the Gold Coast. These properties, like Oheka Castle, Sands Point Preserve, and the Vanderbilt Museum, offer a glimpse into a bygone era of grandeur with impressive architecture and expansive grounds.
Which Long Island estates are known for their historical significance and architecture?
Long Island boasts several historically significant estates. Oheka Castle is a sprawling French-style chateau, the second-largest private residence ever built in the U.S. Sands Point Preserve features two prominent 'castles,' Castle Gould (modeled after Kilkenny Castle) and Hempstead House (an English Tudor-style mansion). The Vanderbilt Museum, also known as 'Eagle's Nest,' is a Spanish-Revival mansion that was the summer home of William K. Vanderbilt II.
Are there any family-friendly activities at these Long Island estates?
Yes, several estates offer family-friendly activities. Sands Point Preserve includes a 'Dino Trail' and Woodland Playground for children, in addition to hiking trails. The Vanderbilt Museum features a marine and natural history museum, a planetarium, and various educational programs suitable for families.
Can I explore the grounds and gardens at these Long Island castles?
Absolutely. Many of these estates feature extensive and beautiful grounds. Oheka Castle has formal gardens and reflecting pools. Sands Point Preserve offers picturesque ponds, views of Hempstead Harbor and the Long Island Sound, and six marked hiking trails. The Vanderbilt Museum also includes gardens and a sprawling 43-acre estate to explore.
What is the best time of year to visit Long Island's castles for scenic views?
While these estates are beautiful year-round, autumn offers particularly stunning views with vibrant fall foliage across their expansive grounds. Spring and summer also provide lush landscapes and blooming gardens, making them ideal for outdoor exploration.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking near these historical estates?
Yes, several estates provide walking paths and hiking trails. Sands Point Preserve, for example, offers six marked hiking trails for visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the grounds. While the guide data does not list specific routes for these Long Island, NY castles, you can find general hiking routes in the region by visiting Hiking around Long Island.
Can I stay overnight or attend events at any of these Long Island castles?
Yes, Oheka Castle operates as a luxury hotel and event venue, making it a popular spot for weddings and film shoots. It offers tours, overnight stays, and gourmet dining, allowing visitors to experience a sense of royalty.
What unique features does the Vanderbilt Museum offer?
The Vanderbilt Museum, also known as 'Eagle's Nest,' is a unique combination of a Spanish-Revival mansion, a marine and natural history museum, and a planetarium. Visitors can explore William K. Vanderbilt II's preserved living quarters, his extensive collections from global travels, and enjoy planetarium shows and educational programs.
Are there any estates that have been featured in popular culture?
Yes, Oheka Castle gained significant recognition as a filming location for Taylor Swift's 'Blank Space' music video and is considered a huge inspiration for F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel The Great Gatsby. Sands Point Preserve has also served as a backdrop for various Hollywood productions.
What are the operating hours for Sands Point Preserve?
Sands Point Preserve is generally open Wednesday through Sunday, allowing visitors to explore its grounds and historic mansions. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current operating hours and any special event closures.
Are there cycling routes available near Long Island's historical estates?
While specific cycling routes directly adjacent to each estate are not detailed in the guide data, Long Island offers various cycling opportunities. You can explore general cycling routes in the region by visiting Cycling around Long Island.
What kind of historical collections can be found at the Vanderbilt Museum?
The Vanderbilt Museum houses William K. Vanderbilt II's extensive collections of marine, natural history, and ethnographic specimens. These collections, gathered during his global travels, are displayed in various galleries, including the notable Hall of Fishes, offering a fascinating look into his interests and the natural world.
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