Top 4 Castles around Moynaghan North
Best castles around Moynaghan North are situated in a region characterized by its historical estates and natural landscapes. This area offers a blend of ancient ruins and preserved historical sites, providing insights into centuries of local heritage. Visitors can explore various historical sites, from fortified houses to castle ruins nestled within expansive forest parks. The region's historical sites Monaghan North offer a unique perspective on the area's past.
Best castles around Moynaghan North
- The most popular castles is Old Castle Archdale, a forest and historical site situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare forest. This 17th-century castle was the main castle on its former estate before its successor took its place in the 1800s.
- Another must-see spot is Necarne Castle, a historical site once known as Irvine Castle. This ruin was in use as late as WWII, serving as a military hospital, and is now overtaken by plant life.
- Visitors also love Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house and bawn set on Tully Point. Built for Sir John Hume, it was attacked and burned in 1641 and never lived in again, with a visitorโs centre now telling local stories.
- Moynaghan North is known for its historical castle ruins, fortified houses, and historical sites. These sites offer a variety of experiences, from exploring crumbling walls to learning about past sieges and historical events.
- The castles around Moynaghan North are appreciated by the komoot community, with 12 upvotes and 13 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Tully Castle Ruins
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A visitorโs centre, located in a restored farmhouse, houses an exhibition telling local stories relating to the castle.
(discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tully-castle-p675521)
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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 kind of historical sites can I explore around Moynaghan North?
Moynaghan North is rich in historical sites, primarily featuring castle ruins and fortified houses. You can visit places like Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle ruin set within a vast forest, or the remains of Necarne Castle, which served as a military hospital during WWII. Tully Castle Ruins also offers a glimpse into a fortified house from the 1600s with a visitor's centre.
Are there any well-preserved castles or estates in the wider Monaghan region?
Yes, in the broader County Monaghan region, the most prominent and well-preserved example is the Castle Leslie Estate in Glaslough. This magnificent 19th-century castellated mansion operates as a five-star luxury hotel and offers a unique historical escape with activities like horse riding, fishing, and spa treatments. You can find more information on Monaghan Tourism.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in Moynaghan North?
Many castles in Moynaghan North are situated within natural settings, offering opportunities for outdoor activities. For instance, Old Castle Archdale is located within a 520-hectare forest, perfect for walks. You can find various hiking routes, including an easy 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' route, or cycling tours like the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop'. Explore more options on the Hiking around Moynaghan North or Cycling around Moynaghan North guide pages.
Are there family-friendly castles or historical sites in the area?
Yes, Tully Castle Ruins is considered family-friendly, offering a visitor's centre that tells local stories related to the castle. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, part of the larger Castle Archdale estate, sometimes host exhibitions that can be engaging for families.
Can I visit Rossmore Castle, and what can I expect there?
While Rossmore Castle itself was demolished in the 1970s, its ruins, including gatehouses and estate walls, are located within the 691-acre Rossmore Forest Park near Monaghan Town. The park offers year-round free access and is an excellent location for exploring historical ruins within a natural setting, providing walking trails and a glimpse into the past grandeur of the estate.
Are there guided tours available for any of the castles?
For the Castle Leslie Estate in Glaslough, guided tours are available when scheduled, offering insights into the Leslie family's history and showcasing unique artifacts. For other sites like Tully Castle Ruins, a visitor's centre provides historical context and information.
What is the best time of year to visit castles in Moynaghan North?
The best time to visit castles and historical sites in Moynaghan North generally depends on your preference for weather and outdoor activities. Spring and summer offer milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring ruins and walking trails. However, some sites, like Rossmore Forest Park, are accessible year-round, allowing for a different, perhaps more atmospheric, experience in autumn or winter.
Are there any castles with scenic views in Moynaghan North?
Old Castle Archdale is perched atop a forest clifftop, offering scenic views of the surrounding natural landscape. Similarly, Tully Castle Ruins are set on Tully Point, providing picturesque views over the water.
What is the historical significance of <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/2666981" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Old Castle Archdale</a>?
Old Castle Archdale, built in 1615, has a rich history. It was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later burnt out and abandoned during the Williamite Wars in 1689. Its ruins offer a tangible connection to these significant historical events in the region.
Are there any places to eat or stay near the castles?
Near the Castle Leslie Estate in Glaslough, you can find dining options like Conor's Bar or Snaffles Restaurant, as well as luxury accommodation within the estate itself. For other castle sites, nearby towns and villages will offer cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. For example, Irvinestown is close to Necarne Castle.
What is the story behind <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/2844090" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Tully Castle Ruins</a>?
Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house and bawn, was built for Sir John Hume. It was tragically attacked and burned on Christmas Eve in 1641 by Rory Maguire, with its inhabitants massacred. The castle was never lived in again after this event, and a visitor's centre now shares these local stories.
Can I bring my dog on walks around the castles?
Many natural areas surrounding castle ruins, such as Rossmore Forest Park, are generally dog-friendly for walks, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always best to check specific site regulations before visiting, but places like Necarne Woods near Necarne Castle offer pleasant walks suitable for dogs.
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