Top 4 Castles around Cleenishmeen Island
Best castles around Cleenishmeen Island are situated in the broader Lough Erne region of County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Cleenishmeen Island itself is located in Lower Lough Erne. While no castles are directly on the island, the surrounding area offers several historical sites. The region is characterized by its lough system and historical significance.
Best castles around Cleenishmeen Island
- The most popular castles is Old Castle Archdale, a historical site that was built in the 1600s on a forest clifftop.β¦
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
Highlight β’ Forest
Tip by
Tully Castle Ruins
Highlight β’ Castle
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
Highlight β’ Monument
Tip by
Necarne Castle
Highlight β’ Historical Site
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
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.
2
0
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.
2
0
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.
1
0
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!
1
0
The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
1
1
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.
0
0
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 visitorβs 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)
3
0
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.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the main castles located around Cleenishmeen Island?
While Cleenishmeen Island itself does not have standing castles, the notable historical sites are found in the broader Lough Erne region of County Fermanagh. These include Old Castle Archdale, Necarne Castle, and Tully Castle Ruins.
Are there any family-friendly castles or historical sites to visit?
Yes, Tully Castle Ruins is noted as family-friendly. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, which were part of a significant WWII base, also offer a family-friendly historical experience.
What kind of history can I explore at these castles?
The castles in this region offer a glimpse into 17th-century history, including periods of rebellion and conflict. For example, Old Castle Archdale was built in the 1600s, captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641, and later abandoned after being burnt in 1689. Tully Castle Ruins also suffered a similar fate in 1641 and was never re-inhabited.
Are there walking or hiking trails near the castles?
Yes, the area around these castles offers various trails. For instance, you can find running routes like the 'Old Castle Archdale β Rossmore Point Beacon loop' or the 'Necarne Castle (Castle Irvine) β Necarne Castle loop'. For more options, explore the Running Trails around Cleenishmeen Island guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near these historical sites?
Beyond exploring the castles, the Lough Erne region provides opportunities for various outdoor activities. You can find MTB trails such as the 'Horse Hill, Castle Hill and Necarne Castle loop' or road cycling routes like the 'Boa Island and Pettigo loop from Old Castle Archdale'. Check out the MTB Trails around Cleenishmeen Island guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Cleenishmeen Island guide for more details.
Is there a castle that offers accommodation in the region?
Yes, Belle Isle Castle, located on the northern tip of Upper Lough Erne, offers luxurious accommodation. It's a 17th-century castle available for exclusive use or with self-catered cottages and apartments on its 470-acre estate. You can find more information on Celtic Castles.
What natural features can I expect to see around the castles?
The castles are situated within the beautiful Lough Erne region. Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop within a large coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. Belle Isle Estate, home to Belle Isle Castle, is an Area of Special Scientific Interest and a Special Area of Conservation, encompassing eight picturesque islands.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in this area?
Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the atmospheric ruins. For example, at Old Castle Archdale, people enjoy imagining life hundreds of years ago while wandering its crumbling walls perched atop a cliff. The visitor's centre at Tully Castle Ruins also provides interesting local stories.
Can I visit these castles in winter?
While the castles are generally accessible year-round, it's advisable to check specific opening times for visitor centers, especially for Tully Castle Ruins. The weather in Fermanagh can be cold and wet in winter, so dress appropriately for outdoor exploration.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the castles?
The fan-out queries suggest that visitors often look for amenities like cafes near Irvinestown and pubs near Enniskillen. These towns are located within the broader Lough Erne region, making them good options for finding refreshments after visiting the castles.
What is the historical significance of Cleenishmeen Island itself?
Cleenishmeen Island is located in Lower Lough Erne. While no original castle structures remain, historical records indicate a significant monastic site founded by St. Sinell once existed on 'Cleenish Island' in the same lough system. Its stones were reportedly repurposed for other buildings in Enniskillen.
Is there parking available at the castle sites?
Parking is generally available at the larger sites. For instance, Necarne Castle offers free parking. It's always a good idea to check specific site information before your visit for the most up-to-date details.
Most popular attractions around Cleenishmeen Island
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Cleenishmeen Island:
