Top 6 Castles around Drummurry
Best castles around Drummurry are found in County Fermanagh, an agricultural area with historical significance. While Drummurry itself is primarily agricultural, the surrounding region offers several notable historical castles. Visitors can explore 6 castles that provide insights into the area's heritage. These sites are set within diverse landscapes, from riverbanks to wooded estates.
Best castles around Drummurry
- The most popular castles is Enniskillen Castle, a historical site built in the 15th century. It served as a Gaelic stronghold andโฆ
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
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Old Castle Archdale
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Castle Coole
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Necarne Castle
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Monea Castle Ruins
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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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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 ยฃ57,000, the equivalent of around ยฃ20 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 ยฃ5 per adult.
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Like many other castles in the area, Monea Castle was built during the Plantation in the 17th century, when settlers from Great Britain colonised lands in Ireland. The Scottish Reverend Malcolm Hamilton built the castle in 1616 in a distinctly Scottish style. The castle was attacked and occupied during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and was lived in by the family of colonel Gustav Hamilton until 1704. A few decades later, a fire destroyed much of the castle, leaving it ruined as it is today. The ruins are free to visit and open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
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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 historical castles can I visit near Drummurry?
County Fermanagh, surrounding Drummurry, offers several significant historical castles. You can explore the 15th-century Enniskillen Castle, which now houses two museums. Another option is Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century ruin set on a forest clifftop. For a grander experience, Castle Coole is an 18th-century neoclassical mansion with extensive parklands.
Are there any castle ruins to explore in the Drummurry area?
Yes, you can visit several castle ruins. Old Castle Archdale, built in the 1600s, was destroyed during the Williamite Wars and now stands as a ruin on a forest clifftop. Necarne Castle, once known as Irvine Castle, is also a ruin that served as a military hospital during World War II. Additionally, Monea Castle Ruins, a 17th-century Plantation castle, is free to visit and open to the public.
Which castles near Drummurry are suitable for families?
Several castles in the area are family-friendly. Enniskillen Castle offers museums that chronicle local and military history, providing an educational experience. Castle Coole, with its 1,200-acre wooded estate, is perfect for walks and exploring the grounds. Monea Castle Ruins are also considered family-friendly and are free to visit.
What kind of history do these castles represent?
The castles around Drummurry offer a glimpse into various periods of Irish history. Enniskillen Castle tells stories from Gaelic strongholds, Irish rebellions, and sieges. Old Castle Archdale and Monea Castle Ruins are examples of 17th-century Plantation castles, reflecting the settlement of British colonists. Castle Coole showcases the opulent lifestyle of the Anglo-Irish aristocracy in the 18th century.
Are there walking trails or outdoor activities near the castles?
Yes, many castles are situated within areas offering outdoor activities. For instance, Old Castle Archdale is located within a large forest, providing opportunities for walks. You can find various hiking, road cycling, and running routes in the region. Explore options like the Necarne Woods trail near Necarne Castle, or running loops around Lough Coole near Castle Coole. For more detailed routes, check out the hiking guide, road cycling guide, or running guide for Drummurry.
What is the best time of year to visit castles in County Fermanagh?
The best time to visit castles in County Fermanagh, including those near Drummurry, is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September). The weather is milder and more conducive for exploring castle grounds and nearby outdoor trails. Many attractions also have extended opening hours during this period.
Are there any castles near Drummurry with museums?
Yes, Enniskillen Castle houses two museums: the Fermanagh County Museum and The Inniskillings Museum. These museums offer extensive exhibits on local and military history, providing a deep dive into the region's heritage.
What are the parking facilities like at these castles?
Parking availability varies by castle. For instance, Necarne Castle offers free parking. It's advisable to check specific visitor information for each castle, such as Enniskillen Castle or Castle Coole, for detailed parking instructions and potential fees.
Can I visit a grand mansion or estate near Drummurry?
Absolutely. Castle Coole is an 18th-century neoclassical mansion set within a sprawling 1,200-acre wooded estate. It offers a magnificent glimpse into the lifestyle of the Anglo-Irish aristocracy, with beautiful parklands for walking and exploring.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Drummurry?
Visitors appreciate the rich historical narratives and diverse experiences offered by the castles. From exploring the museums at Enniskillen Castle to wandering the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale perched on a clifftop, each site provides a unique perspective. The grand architecture and extensive grounds of places like Castle Coole are also highly valued.
Are there any less crowded or 'hidden gem' castles to visit?
While the main castles are popular, exploring ruins like Necarne Castle or Monea Castle Ruins might offer a quieter experience. These sites, though less grand than some others, provide a unique historical atmosphere and are often less frequented, allowing for a more contemplative visit.
How long does it typically take to tour these castles?
The duration of a visit varies. For a comprehensive experience at Enniskillen Castle, including its museums, you might spend 2-3 hours. Exploring the mansion and grounds of Castle Coole could also take a few hours. For ruins like Old Castle Archdale or Monea Castle Ruins, a visit might range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much you explore the surrounding area.
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