Top 4 Castles around Agharainy
Best castles around Agharainy are found in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, a region characterized by its historical significance and natural landscapes, including Lough Erne. The area features several notable castle sites, offering insights into the Plantation of Ulster, the Irish Rebellion of 1641, and later historical periods. These sites are often set within scenic parklands or along the shores of Lough Erne. Exploring these locations provides a direct connection to centuries of regional history.
Best castles around Agharainy
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Last updated: June 28, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Tully Castle Ruins
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Necarne Castle
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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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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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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 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)
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical events are associated with the castles around Agharainy?
The castles in this region, such as Tully Castle Ruins and Old Castle Archdale, are deeply tied to the Plantation of Ulster and the Irish Rebellion of 1641. Tully Castle was attacked and burned during the rebellion, while Old Castle Archdale was also destroyed and later abandoned after the Williamite Wars. Necarne Castle, originally a 17th-century structure, later served as a military hospital during World War II.
Are there family-friendly activities at the castles near Agharainy?
Yes, several castle sites offer family-friendly experiences. Tully Castle Ruins has a visitor's centre in a restored farmhouse with exhibitions telling local stories. The wider Castle Archdale estate, home to Old Castle Archdale, is now part of Castle Archdale Country Park, offering recreational opportunities and a museum with WWII exhibits. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings also host exhibitions.
What kind of natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see at these castle sites?
Many castles in the Agharainy area are set within scenic landscapes, often with views of Lough Erne. Tully Castle Ruins, located on the shores of Lower Lough Erne, offers commanding views of the ruins and surrounding countryside. Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop, providing a picturesque setting. Necarne Castle is surrounded by mature trees in woodland and parkland.
Are there walking or hiking trails near the castles?
Yes, there are several walking and hiking opportunities. You can find easy routes like the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. There's also a 'Tully Castle Ruins loop from Heron Island'. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Agharainy.
Can I cycle to or around the castles?
Absolutely. The region offers various cycling routes. You can try the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' or routes like 'Old Castle Archdale β Castle Archdale Marina loop from Kesh'. For a comprehensive list of cycling tours, check out the cycling guide for Agharainy.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Agharainy?
The castles and their surrounding parks are generally accessible year-round. Visiting during spring or summer offers pleasant weather for exploring the grounds and enjoying the natural beauty of Lough Erne. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter visits can offer a quieter, more atmospheric experience, though some visitor centres might have reduced hours.
Are there facilities like cafes or tearooms near the castle sites?
Yes, the Castle Archdale estate, which includes Old Castle Archdale, features an information centre and tearooms within its well-preserved cobbled courtyard. Tully Castle Ruins has a visitor's centre in a restored farmhouse, which may offer light refreshments or information on nearby options.
Is parking available at the castle locations?
Parking is generally available at or near the main castle sites. For example, Necarne Castle offers free parking for visitors exploring its parkland. Castle Archdale Country Park, where Old Castle Archdale is located, also provides parking facilities.
How long should I allocate for visiting a castle?
The time needed can vary. For sites like Tully Castle Ruins, you might spend 1-2 hours exploring the ruins, visitor centre, and recreated garden. Larger estates like Castle Archdale, which includes Old Castle Archdale and the country park, could easily fill half a day or more if you combine it with walks or museum visits.
Are the castle grounds accessible for visitors with wheelchairs?
Accessibility can vary between sites. While the ruins themselves might have uneven terrain, many visitor centres and main pathways in country parks, such as Castle Archdale Country Park, often offer more accessible routes. It's advisable to check specific site information for detailed accessibility details before your visit.
What role did the castles play during World War II?
While many castles date back to earlier conflicts, Necarne Castle was requisitioned during World War II, serving as a 500-bed military hospital for the United States Navy and Army. The wider Castle Archdale estate was also a significant RAF base for flying boats, housing up to 2,500 personnel and protecting Atlantic shipping.
Can I bring my dog to the castle grounds?
Many outdoor areas, especially country parks like Castle Archdale Country Park, are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. However, specific rules may apply to indoor visitor centres or certain historical areas. It's best to check the individual site's regulations before visiting with your dog.
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