Attractions and Places To See around Barnalackan - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see around Barnalackan include a variety of historical sites, natural monuments, and scenic viewpoints. This region features 13 distinct places to explore, offering insights into its past and natural beauty. The area encompasses ancient castles, such as Old Castle Archdale, set within extensive forests, and prehistoric stone circles. Visitors can discover historical ruins, enjoy views over Lough Erne, and experience sites with cultural significance.
Best attractions and places to see around Barnalackan
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Last updated: June 24, 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 explore around Barnalackan?
The region is rich in history. You can visit the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle set within a large forest. Another significant historical site is Necarne Castle, which served as a military hospital during WWII. For ancient history, explore the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment, dating back to 2000 BC.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Barnalackan area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment offers an engaging historical experience with free entrance. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, a former WWII base, often host exhibitions that can be interesting for all ages. Additionally, the scenic Rossmore Point Beacon provides a lovely spot to relax by Lough Erne.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Barnalackan?
For serene views, head to Rossmore Point Beacon, which offers picturesque vistas over Lough Erne and has a bench for visitors to enjoy the scenery. Old Castle Archdale, perched on a forest clifftop, also provides scenic outlooks over the surrounding area.
What outdoor activities, like hiking, are available near these attractions?
The area around Barnalackan offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy options like the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' route. For more details and other routes, explore the Hiking around Barnalackan guide or the Easy hikes around Barnalackan guide.
Are there cycling routes near the attractions in Barnalackan?
Yes, there are several road cycling routes in the vicinity. You can find routes such as the 'Boa Island and Pettigo loop from Old Castle Archdale'. For a comprehensive list of options, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Barnalackan guide.
What is the significance of Old Castle Archdale?
Old Castle Archdale was built in 1615 and was the main castle on a large estate. It played a role in the Irish Rebellion of 1641 when it was captured, and later saw its end during the Williamite Wars when it was burnt out and abandoned in 1689. Today, its ruins offer a glimpse into centuries of history.
Can I visit the Drumskinny Stone Circle with children?
Yes, the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is considered family-friendly. It's an open-air historical site dating back to 2000 BC, offering an educational and engaging experience for children to explore ancient structures. Entrance to the site is free.
What is the history behind the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings?
The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings were part of a major base during World War II, housing up to 2,500 people. They served as a central location for RAF fighters. Sometimes, exhibitions are held in these courtyards to highlight the area's significant role during the war.
What kind of views can I expect from Rossmore Point Beacon?
From Rossmore Point Beacon, you can expect serene and expansive views over Lough Erne. It's a peaceful spot, marked by a white beacon, perfect for enjoying the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding landscape. A bench is available for visitors to sit and take in the scenery.
Are there any less crowded outdoor activities or hidden gems near Barnalackan?
While popular sites like Old Castle Archdale and Rossmore Point Beacon offer tranquility, exploring some of the less-trafficked sections of the extensive forest around Old Castle Archdale can provide a more secluded experience. The Drumskinny Stone Circle, while historically significant, often offers a quieter visit compared to more bustling attractions.
What should I bring for a day out exploring attractions near Barnalackan?
When exploring the attractions around Barnalackan, especially those involving walks or outdoor sites like Old Castle Archdale or Drumskinny Stone Circle, it's advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes. Depending on the weather, bring layers of clothing, rain gear, and perhaps a packed lunch and water, as amenities might not be directly at every site.
Is Necarne Castle accessible to the public?
Necarne Castle is a ruin and is generally closed to urban explorers, with CCTV in operation. While you can view the exterior and explore the surrounding Necarne Woods, direct access into the castle ruins themselves is restricted for safety reasons.
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