Top 4 Castles around Drummoyagh
Castles around Drummoyagh offer a glimpse into Ireland's rich history and diverse landscapes. This area, situated within or near County Fermanagh, features historical sites set amidst forest parks and along significant waterways. Visitors can explore various castle types, from ancient ruins to fortified houses, each telling a unique story of the region's past. The surrounding natural environment provides a backdrop for historical exploration.
Best castles around Drummoyagh
- The most popular castles is Old Castle Archdale, a historical site situatedโฆ
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Tully Castle Ruins
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Necarne Castle
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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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This fortified house is on Tully Point and built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked by John Maguire and burned on Christmas Eve with all its inhabitants massacred. After that it was not lived in again. There is a visitors centre in a restored farmhouse that has an interesting exhibition telling a number of stories relating to the castle. To visit the castle be sure to step off the bike as it is on foot only!
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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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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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This fortified house and bawn are set on Tully Point and were built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve by Rory Maguire and the inhabitants massacred. It was not lived in again. A visitorโs centre, located in a restored farmhouse, houses an exhibition telling local stories relating to the castle. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tully-castle-p675521)
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Once called Irvine Castle, hence the town of Irvinestown, it is now a ruin closed to urban explorers, including cctv. It was in use as late as WWII, when it was a military hospital, but it has since lost its roof and been overtaken by plant life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore around Drummoyagh?
Around Drummoyagh, you can explore a variety of historical sites including ancient ruins, fortified houses, and 17th-century Plantation castles. Examples include the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, the poignant Tully Castle Ruins, and the historically significant Necarne Castle.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Drummoyagh?
Yes, several castles and their surrounding areas are family-friendly. Tully Castle Ruins and the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings are noted as family-friendly. Castle Archdale Forest Park, where Old Castle Archdale is located, also offers extensive outdoor activities suitable for families.
What historical events are associated with the castles in this region?
The castles around Drummoyagh are steeped in history. Old Castle Archdale was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed by fire in 1689. Tully Castle Ruins suffered a tragic attack and burning in 1641, leading to its abandonment. Additionally, Necarne Castle served as a military hospital during WWII.
Can I go hiking near these castles?
Absolutely. Many castles are situated within or near forest parks with hiking opportunities. For instance, you can find easy hikes like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. You can explore more hiking routes in the area by visiting the Hiking around Drummoyagh guide.
Are there cycling routes that pass by the castles?
Yes, there are several cycling routes. The 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' and routes like 'Rossmore Point Beacon โ Old Castle Archdale loop' offer opportunities to cycle near these historical sites. For more options, check out the Cycling around Drummoyagh guide.
What are the parking facilities like at the castles?
Parking information varies by site. For Necarne Castle, free parking is available. For other locations like Old Castle Archdale and Tully Castle, parking is generally available within the associated forest parks or visitor centers, but it's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Drummoyagh?
The region's castles can be visited year-round. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring the ruins and surrounding parks, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the ruins offer a unique, atmospheric experience, often with fewer crowds.
Are there any unique architectural features among the castles?
While not directly in Drummoyagh, nearby Drimnagh Castle in South Dublin is notable as the only remaining moated castle in Ireland, featuring a restored great hall and 17th-century gardens. Monea Castle in County Fermanagh showcases a distinct Scottish architectural style from the 17th century. The local castles like Tully Castle Ruins are examples of fortified houses and bawns.
What can I expect to see at Castle Archdale?
At Castle Archdale, you can explore the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, situated on a forest clifftop. The area also features the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, which played a significant role as a major base for flying boats during WWII. The surrounding forest park offers extensive outdoor activities and historical exhibitions.
Are there visitor centers or exhibitions at any of the castle sites?
Yes, Tully Castle Ruins has a visitor's centre housed in a restored farmhouse, which features an exhibition telling local stories related to the castle. Exhibitions are also sometimes held in the courtyards of Castle Archdale to highlight the area's wartime history.
What kind of natural surroundings can I find near these castles?
The castles are often set within beautiful natural environments. Old Castle Archdale is located within a large coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest park. Tully Castle Ruins are set on Tully Point, offering scenic views. The region is known for its diverse landscapes, including significant waterways like Lough Erne, which is often nearby.
Are there any less crowded castles to visit for a more peaceful experience?
While specific crowd levels can vary, visiting during off-peak seasons (outside of summer holidays) or on weekdays can generally offer a more peaceful experience at any of the sites. The ruins of Tully Castle and Necarne Castle, being largely ruins, often provide a quieter atmosphere for exploration.
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