Top 4 Castles around Cooltrain
Castles around Cooltrain offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and diverse landscapes. Located in an area featuring rivers and extensive wooded estates, Cooltrain provides a setting for exploring historical sites. The region encompasses significant historical structures, from 16th-century fortifications to 18th-century mansions. These sites are situated within varied natural environments, including riverbanks and large parklands.
Best castles around Cooltrain
- The most popular castles is Enniskillen Castle, a historical site that tells stories from Irish rebellions to sieges.…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
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Castle Coole
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Necarne Castle
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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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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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Built in the 16th century, Enniskillen Castle has many stories to tell – from Irish rebellions against English rule to sieges and protection from the threat of French invasion. 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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Castle Coole is a late 18th century neoclassical mansion in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. The house is situated on a 5 km² wooded estate. Unfortunately, I could not visit it, because it was already too late. The interior design and decor should be impressive.
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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 historical sites can I explore around Cooltrain?
Cooltrain offers a diverse range of historical sites, from 16th-century fortifications to 18th-century mansions. You can visit Enniskillen Castle, a historical site with a museum, or explore the magnificent Neo-classical house of Castle Coole. There's also Necarne Castle, a historical ruin that once served as a military hospital.
Are there family-friendly castles in the Cooltrain area?
Yes, several castles around Cooltrain are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle, with its museum, and Castle Coole, with its extensive grounds, are both categorized as family-friendly and offer engaging experiences for all ages.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Cooltrain's castles offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'Lough Coole and Castle Coole running loop from Enniskillen' or the 'Enniskillen and Portora Castle running loop'. For hiking, options include the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole' and several loops around Enniskillen Castle. You can explore more options on the running trails and hiking guides for Cooltrain.
Are there walking or hiking trails directly connected to the castles?
Yes, you can enjoy walking trails near the castles. For instance, Castle Coole is set within a 1,200-acre wooded estate with paths suitable for walking, including the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop'. There are also several easy hiking loops starting from Enniskillen Castle, such as the 'Enniskillen Castle loop from Enniskillen'.
How much time should I allocate for visiting the castles?
The time needed varies by castle. For Enniskillen Castle, you can explore the museum and grounds, which might take a few hours. Castle Coole offers tours of the mansion and extensive grounds, which could easily fill half a day. For ruins like Necarne Castle, a shorter visit might suffice.
Is parking available at the castles?
Parking availability varies by site. For example, Necarne Castle offers free parking. For other sites like Castle Coole, there is an entrance fee for the grounds which typically includes parking. It's always advisable to check specific site information for the most up-to-date details.
What are the opening hours for Enniskillen Castle?
Enniskillen Castle is open from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm from Monday to Friday, and from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekends. It's recommended to verify current opening times before your visit.
Can I visit the interior of Castle Coole?
Yes, you can visit the mansion and its grounds at Castle Coole to gain insight into the lives of its former wealthy inhabitants and their staff. There is an entrance fee for the grounds.
What is the history behind Necarne Castle?
Necarne Castle, originally known as Irvine Castle, has a rich history. It was in use as late as WWII, serving as a military hospital. Today, it stands as a ruin, having lost its roof and been reclaimed by plant life.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Cooltrain?
Visitors appreciate the rich history and diverse landscapes surrounding the castles. The opportunity to explore sites like Enniskillen Castle, which tells stories from Irish rebellions, and the grandeur of Castle Coole's Neo-classical architecture and extensive parklands, are frequently highlighted. The variety of architectural styles and historical periods also makes the region appealing.
Are there cycling routes near the castles?
Yes, there are road cycling routes in the Cooltrain area that pass by or near some castles. For example, the 'Enniskillen Castle – Enniskillen Castle loop from Ballinamallard' is an easy route. You can find more details on these routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Cooltrain guide.
What kind of natural environment surrounds the castles?
The castles around Cooltrain are situated within varied natural environments. Enniskillen Castle is on the banks of the River Erne, while Castle Coole is set within a magnificent 1,200-acre wooded estate featuring oak, ash, and beech trees, with some land used for grazing cattle and sheep.
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