Attractions and Places To See around Dooraa South - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see around Dooraa South include historical sites, ancient monuments, and natural landscapes. The region features several castles and a significant stone circle, offering insights into its past. Visitors can explore forested areas and viewpoints, providing diverse outdoor experiences. The area is characterized by its historical depth and scenic natural settings.
Best attractions and places to see around Dooraa South
- The most popular attractions is Old Castle Archdale, a historical castle situated on Castle Hill…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment
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Necarne Castle
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Rossmore Point Beacon
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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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A white beacon marks the location of Rossmore Point. There is a bench to sit on here where you can enjoy serene views over Lough Erne.
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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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Drumskinny Stone Circle is one of five in the area. It dates back to 2000BC and is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions or astronomical observations. There are 39 stones that make up the circle which are all placed around a small cairn.
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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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Drumskinny Stone Circle is one of five stone circles located in the area. Although its exact purpose isn't known, it is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions, or astronomical observations. The circle is made up of 39 stones placed around a small round cairn. Entrance to the site is free.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in Dooraa South?
Dooraa South is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle built in 1615 and later destroyed by fire. Another significant historical ruin is Necarne Castle, which even served as a military hospital during WWII. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings offer insight into the area's past, particularly its role as a major base for flying boats during WWII.
Are there any ancient monuments in Dooraa South?
Yes, the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is a remarkable ancient site dating back to 2000 BC. It consists of 39 stones arranged around a small cairn, believed to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions, or astronomical observations. Entrance to the site is free.
What natural viewpoints can I enjoy in Dooraa South?
For scenic views, visit Rossmore Point Beacon. Here, a white beacon marks the spot, and you can sit on a bench to enjoy serene views over Lough Erne. Old Castle Archdale also offers a viewpoint from its forest clifftop location.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Dooraa South?
Absolutely. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings are considered family-friendly, offering a glimpse into history. The Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is also suitable for families, providing an engaging historical experience. Additionally, Rossmore Point Beacon is a great spot for families to enjoy lake views.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Dooraa South offers various outdoor activities, especially hiking and road cycling. You can find numerous routes for both sports. For detailed hiking options, including easy trails like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Castle Archdale loop', explore the Hiking around Dooraa South guide. For road cycling, routes like 'Boa Island and Pettigo loop from Old Castle Archdale' are available in the Road Cycling Routes around Dooraa South guide.
Are there hiking trails near Dooraa South attractions?
Yes, there are several hiking trails, particularly around the Castle Archdale area. Easy options include the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' (4.6 km) and the 'Castle Archdale loop' (4.3 km). For slightly longer, moderate hikes, consider the 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop' (12 km). You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Dooraa South guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about Dooraa South?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth and scenic natural settings. The crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale, perched atop a cliff, allow visitors to imagine life centuries ago. The serene views over Lough Erne from Rossmore Point Beacon are also highly enjoyed, offering a peaceful spot to relax.
Can I find easy walks suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Dooraa South offers several easy walks. The 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' and 'Castle Archdale loop' are both considered easy hikes, perfect for beginners or families. Another easy option is the 'Castle Archdale Marina – Rossmore Point Beacon loop'. These routes are generally under 5 km. More easy routes can be found in the Easy hikes around Dooraa South guide.
Are there any unique or lesser-known historical facts about the attractions?
Yes, Old Castle Archdale was captured by Rory Maguire during the Irish Rebellion of 1641, and its heir was saved by his nurse while other children were killed. Necarne Castle, once known as Irvine Castle, was still in use as a military hospital during WWII before falling into ruin. The Drumskinny Stone Circle, while its exact purpose is unknown, is thought to have served ancient religious or astronomical functions.
What is the best way to explore the forest areas around Dooraa South?
The area around Old Castle Archdale is situated within a 520-hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The best way to explore these forested areas is by following the numerous hiking trails available. These trails often lead to historical sites and viewpoints, offering a blend of nature and history. Check the Hiking around Dooraa South guide for specific routes.
Are there any places to see man-made monuments besides castles?
Beyond the castles, the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is a significant man-made monument from the Bronze Age. Additionally, the Rossmore Point Beacon is a distinctive man-made structure marking a scenic point on Lough Erne.
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