Top 5 Castles around Glenross
Castles around Glenross are situated in a region characterized by its historical significance and natural landscapes. This area features numerous historical sites, including fortified houses and castle ruins, often set amidst forests or near loughs. The castles reflect the region's past, particularly the 17th-century Plantation period and subsequent conflicts. Visitors can explore these sites to understand the area's rich history and architectural heritage.
Best castles around Glenross
- The most popular castles is Old Castle Archdale, a historical castle andβ¦
Last updated: May 17, 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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Monea Castle Ruins
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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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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of castles can I expect to find around Glenross?
The Glenross region is known for its 17th-century Plantation castles, fortified houses, and castle ruins. These sites offer a deep dive into the area's history, including conflicts and architectural styles from that period. Examples include Old Castle Archdale, Tully Castle Ruins, and Monea Castle Ruins.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit in Glenross?
Yes, several castles around Glenross are suitable for families. Tully Castle Ruins and Monea Castle Ruins are both categorized as family-friendly. Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings also offers a family-friendly experience, sometimes hosting exhibitions on its WWII history.
What historical events are associated with the castles in Glenross?
Many castles in Glenross played a significant role in the 17th-century Irish Rebellion of 1641. For instance, Old Castle Archdale was captured during the rebellion and later destroyed by fire during the Williamite Wars. Tully Castle Ruins was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve 1641, never to be reoccupied. Monea Castle Ruins was also attacked and occupied during this period.
Can I explore the interiors of the castles, or are they mostly ruins?
Many of the castles around Glenross are ruins, offering a glimpse into their past through their crumbling walls. For example, Necarne Castle is an abandoned ruin, and Tully Castle Ruins is a fortified house and bawn. However, Tully Castle also has a visitor's centre in a restored farmhouse with an exhibition about the castle's history.
Are there walking or hiking trails near the castles?
Yes, there are several walking and hiking opportunities near the castles. For example, Old Castle Archdale is situated within a large forest, offering trails. You can find various hiking routes in the area, including 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. For more details on hiking trails, visit the Hiking around Glenross guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in Glenross?
Beyond exploring the castles, the Glenross region offers various outdoor activities. You can find running trails, such as the 'Old Castle Archdale β Rossmore Point Beacon loop', or cycling routes like the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop'. For comprehensive guides on these activities, check out the Running Trails around Glenross and Cycling around Glenross guides.
What are the opening hours for castles like Monea Castle Ruins?
Monea Castle Ruins are free to visit and generally open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. For other castles, especially those with visitor centers or managed access, it's advisable to check specific opening times before your visit.
Are there any castles that were used during more recent historical periods?
Yes, Necarne Castle (once known as Irvine Castle) was utilized as a military hospital during World War II. Similarly, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings were part of a major base for flying boats during WWII, housing up to 2,500 people.
What natural features can I expect to see around the castles?
Many castles are set amidst beautiful natural landscapes. Old Castle Archdale is located on Castle Hill within a 520-hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest, and sits on a forest clifftop. Tully Castle Ruins are set on Tully Point, offering views of the surrounding area.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in Glenross?
Visitors appreciate the historical significance and the atmospheric ruins of the castles. The komoot community has shared 13 photos and given 12 upvotes across the various highlights, indicating a strong interest in exploring these historical sites and their natural surroundings. Many enjoy imagining life centuries ago while wandering the crumbling walls, especially at places like Old Castle Archdale.
Is there parking available at the castles?
While specific parking details vary by site, places like Necarne Castle offer free parking. For other locations, parking is generally available nearby, often within forest parks or designated visitor areas. It's always a good idea to check local signage upon arrival.
Are the castle grounds dog-friendly?
Information on dog-friendliness can vary for each site. Generally, many outdoor castle ruins and grounds in the region are accessible to dogs on a leash, especially those within larger forest or park areas like Old Castle Archdale. However, if you plan to enter any visitor centers or specific managed areas, it's best to confirm their pet policies beforehand.
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