Top 6 Castles around Inish Lougher
Best castles around Inish Lougher offer a glimpse into the rich history of the region. This area, often associated with the Lower Lough Erne, features a landscape dotted with historical structures. These castles encompass defensive structures, family estates, and sites of significant historical events. The region provides a historical narrative through its preserved ruins and heritage centers.
Best castles around Inish Lougher
- The most popular castles is Enniskillen Castle, a historical site that dates back to the 16th century.β¦
Last updated: July 12, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
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Old Castle Archdale
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Tully Castle Ruins
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Monea Castle Ruins
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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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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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Like many other castles in the area, Monea Castle was built during the Plantation in the 17th century, when settlers from Great Britain colonised lands in Ireland. The Scottish Reverend Malcolm Hamilton built the castle in 1616 in a distinctly Scottish style. The castle was attacked and occupied during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and was lived in by the family of colonel Gustav Hamilton until 1704. A few decades later, a fire destroyed much of the castle, leaving it ruined as it is today. The ruins are free to visit and open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
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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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Built in the 16th century, Enniskillen Castle has many stories to tell βΒ 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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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of historical sites can I expect to find among the castles around Inish Lougher?
The castles around Inish Lougher offer a diverse historical experience, ranging from fortified houses and bawn ruins like Tully Castle Ruins, to former army barracks now serving as heritage centers and museums, such as Enniskillen Castle. You'll also find older estates like Old Castle Archdale and sites with 20th-century military significance, like the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit in the Inish Lougher region?
Yes, several castles around Inish Lougher are considered family-friendly. Enniskillen Castle, with its museum and heritage center, offers an engaging educational experience for all ages. Tully Castle Ruins and the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings are also categorized as family-friendly, providing historical exploration in an accessible setting.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Inish Lougher's castles is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy routes like the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Tully Castle Ruins loop from Heron Island'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are road cycling routes like the 'Boa Island and Pettigo loop from Old Castle Archdale', and mountain biking trails such as the 'Horse Hill, Castle Hill and Necarne Castle loop'. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Inish Lougher, Road Cycling Routes around Inish Lougher, and MTB Trails around Inish Lougher guide pages.
Which castles offer insights into 20th-century history?
While many castles in the region date back centuries, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings provide a unique perspective on 20th-century history. During WWII, Castle Archdale served as a major base for flying boats, housing up to 2,500 people. Exhibitions are sometimes held here to highlight the site's role during the war. Additionally, Necarne Castle was used as a military hospital during WWII.
Are there any less crowded castles to visit for a more tranquil experience?
For a potentially less crowded experience, consider visiting Old Castle Archdale or Necarne Castle. While popular, their locations within forests or as ruins might offer a more serene atmosphere compared to the more prominent heritage centers. Tully Castle Ruins also provides a historical architectural experience in a more natural setting.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Inish Lougher?
While specific seasonal considerations for each castle vary, generally, the spring and summer months (April to September) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring outdoor ruins and castle grounds. During these times, visitor centers typically have extended hours. Winter visits can be atmospheric but may involve colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours, though some indoor attractions like Enniskillen Castle's museum remain open.
Can I bring my dog to the castle ruins near Inish Lougher?
Many outdoor castle ruins and their surrounding grounds, such as Old Castle Archdale and Tully Castle Ruins, are often dog-friendly, especially in their outdoor areas. However, it's always best to check specific site regulations before your visit, as some indoor visitor centers or protected areas may have restrictions. Always keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them.
Are there cafes or pubs near the castles for refreshments?
The region around Inish Lougher, particularly near larger towns like Enniskillen (home to Enniskillen Castle), offers various cafes and pubs. For castles located within larger estates or parks, such as Castle Archdale, you might find on-site or nearby facilities. It's advisable to check local listings for specific options closest to the castle you plan to visit.
What historical events are associated with the castles in this region?
The castles around Inish Lougher are steeped in history. Enniskillen Castle has witnessed Irish rebellions against English rule, sieges, and defenses against French invasion. Tully Castle Ruins has a dramatic past, having been attacked and burned during the 1641 rebellion. Old Castle Archdale was also captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed during the Williamite Wars.
Are there any castles that are particularly good for photography?
Many of the castles, especially those in ruin, offer picturesque opportunities for photography. The dramatic setting of Tully Castle Ruins on Tully Point, or the forest-clad Old Castle Archdale perched on a clifftop, provide excellent backdrops. The well-preserved Enniskillen Castle, situated on the banks of the River Erne, also offers stunning architectural shots.
What kind of natural features can I find near the castles?
The castles around Inish Lougher are often nestled within beautiful natural landscapes. Old Castle Archdale is located within a large coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest, offering scenic views and walking paths. Many castles are also close to the shores of Lough Erne, providing opportunities to enjoy the lake's natural beauty and surrounding woodlands.
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