Attractions and Places To See around Gorteen - Top 17
Best attractions and places to see around Gorteen include a mix of historical sites, cultural centers, and natural landscapes. Located in County Sligo, Ireland, the area is known for its traditional Irish music heritage and ancient ruins. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from stone forts to forest trails, offering insights into the region's past and natural beauty. The diverse offerings make Gorteen a destination for those interested in history, culture, and outdoor exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Gorteen
- The most popular attractions is Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, a man-made monument featuring two pre-Christian, possibly Iron Age stone figures. These unique stone carvings are located in the Caldragh Cemetery on Boa Island.
- Another must-see spot is Old Castle Archdale, a historical castle ruin situated on Castle Hill within a large forest. Built in the 1600s, the castle was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed by fire in 1689.
- Visitors also love Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house and bawn set on Tully Point. This castle was built for Sir John Hume and was attacked and burned in 1641, after which it was not reoccupied.
- Gorteen is known for its historical sites, cultural heritage, and natural features. These include ancient castles, traditional music centers, and serene loughs and woods, offering a variety of attractions to see and explore.
- The attractions around Gorteen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 10 photos and 10 upvotes shared by explorers.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Tully Castle Ruins
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A visitor’s 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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Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery
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Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones
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Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem.
Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground.
Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged.
megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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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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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 visitor’s 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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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Gorteen?
Gorteen and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641. Another significant site is Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house with a bawn that was attacked and burned in 1641. Don't miss the unique Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, ancient pre-Christian stone figures. Further historical insights can be found at Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, featuring ancient carved stones. Additionally, the Moygara Castle Ruins and Cashelore Stone Fort offer glimpses into the area's past.
Where can I experience traditional Irish music and culture in Gorteen?
Gorteen is renowned for its vibrant traditional Irish music scene. The Coleman Irish Music Centre in the village is a key spot to experience and learn about traditional music, particularly the South Sligo style. The village also hosts numerous traditional music events throughout the year, and the annual Ballintogher Festival celebrates local music, song, and dance.
Are there any ancient monuments or unique archaeological sites nearby?
Yes, the area boasts several unique archaeological sites. The Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery are a must-see, featuring two pre-Christian, possibly Iron Age stone figures. You can also explore Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, which include ancient carved stones like the Bishops stone and a bullaun stone. The Cashelore Stone Fort, an excellent example of a stone fort used between 500-1000 AD, is also worth a visit.
What natural attractions are there for outdoor enthusiasts near Gorteen?
Nature lovers will enjoy Annagh Lough, a popular fishing spot with a looping nature trail through Annagh Woods. Slish Wood, located on the shore of Lough Gill, offers a looped walk through remnants of an oak forest and a pleasant picnic spot. The famous Lake Isle of Innisfree, inspiring W.B. Yeats' poem, is also part of Lough Gill. For a broader natural experience, Crom Estate, though slightly further afield, is a 2,000-acre nature conservation area with ancient woodland and diverse wildlife.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for a leisurely stroll?
Absolutely. The Ballintogher Walking Trail is bordered by hedgerows and offers views towards Slish Wood, with informative signs about local flora and fauna. The looping nature trail through Annagh Woods around Annagh Lough is another gentle option. Slish Wood also features a looped walk. For more options, you can explore various easy hikes listed in the Easy hikes around Gorteen guide, such as the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Tully Castle Ruins loop from Heron Island'.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter in the Gorteen nature areas?
In natural areas like Crom Estate, you might spot wild deer, pine martens, red squirrels, and various rare bird species. Annagh Lough and Slish Wood are home to diverse birdlife, and the woodlands offer opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for trout in Annagh Lough.
Can I find cycling routes around Gorteen's attractions?
Yes, there are several cycling routes available. You can find options like the 'Boa Island and Pettigo loop from Old Castle Archdale' or the 'Tully Castle Ruins – The Big Tree loop from Heron Island'. These and other routes are detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Gorteen guide, offering various distances and difficulty levels.
Are there opportunities for running or more challenging hikes?
For runners, there are several trails, including the 'Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick' which is a more difficult 16 km route, and moderate options like the 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Castle Archdale Marina loop'. You can find these and more in the Running Trails around Gorteen guide. For challenging hikes, explore the broader hiking guides for the region.
What are some family-friendly attractions around Gorteen?
Families can enjoy exploring the historical Tully Castle Ruins, which also has a visitor's centre with local stories. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings offer a glimpse into WWII history and sometimes host exhibitions. Lough Key Forest Park, though not directly in Gorteen, is a popular family attraction in the broader area with various activities. The nature trails around Annagh Lough and Slish Wood are also suitable for families looking for gentle outdoor experiences.
What is the best time of year to visit Gorteen for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Gorteen for outdoor activities is generally during the warmer and drier months, from late spring (May) through early autumn (September). During this period, the weather is more favorable for walking, cycling, and exploring historical sites. However, the natural beauty of the area can be appreciated year-round, with each season offering a different charm.
Are there any hidden viewpoints or scenic spots in the Gorteen area?
While specific 'hidden' viewpoints are often discovered by local exploration, the nature trail around Annagh Lough offers scenic views across reedbeds. The looped walk in Slish Wood provides tranquil forest scenery, and the area around Lough Gill, including the Lake Isle of Innisfree, is inherently picturesque. Exploring the trails around historical sites like Old Castle Archdale, perched on a forest clifftop, can also reveal stunning vistas.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Gorteen?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. The ancient ruins like Old Castle Archdale and Tully Castle Ruins offer a tangible connection to the past, often described as atmospheric and evocative. The unique Janus Stones are a highlight for those interested in ancient history. The peaceful natural settings of Annagh Lough and Slish Wood are valued for their tranquility and opportunities for gentle walks. The vibrant traditional Irish music scene, centered around the Coleman Irish Music Centre, is also a major draw, providing an authentic cultural experience.
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