Top 7 Castles around Sidaire
Best castles around Sidaire. Sidaire is a townland in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, characterized by pastures on undulating hillsides and bordered by the Ballinamallard River. While Sidaire itself is a small agricultural area, the wider region offers several historical castles. These sites provide insights into the area's rich history and natural features, making the surrounding area a point of interest for those exploring County Fermanagh.
Best castles around Sidaire
- The most popular castles is Enniskillen Castle, a historical_site thatβ¦
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
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Old Castle Archdale
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Castle Coole
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Necarne Castle
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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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Run past the beautiful Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th century manor house set in a gorgeous 1,200 acre wooded landscape park.
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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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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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Castle Coole is one of the most magnificent Neo-classical houses in Ireland set in a 1,200 acre (490 ha) wooded estate. Built in the 18th century, the grand mansion was home to the Earls of Belmore. The 7th Earl Belmore gave the manion to the National Trust in 1951. The house was originally constructed as a summer retreat and cost Β£57,000, the equivalent of around Β£20 million today. It is set amongst beautiful parklands dotted with oak, ash and beech trees. Some of the land is given to local farmers to graze their cattle and sheep. You can visit the mansion and its grounds for an insight of how life would once have been for its wealthy inhabitants and their staff. Entrance to the grounds costs Β£5 per adult.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there castles directly within the Sidaire townland?
Sidaire itself is a small townland primarily characterized by pastures. While it is a defined geographical location, there are no notable castles or historical fortifications directly within Sidaire. The castles mentioned in this guide are located in the wider County Fermanagh region, around Sidaire.
Which historical castles can I visit near Sidaire?
You can visit several historical castles near Sidaire. Enniskillen Castle, built in the 16th century, now serves as a heritage center and museum. Castle Coole is a magnificent 18th-century Neo-classical mansion set in a large wooded estate. Old Castle Archdale is a 17th-century ruin situated on a forest clifftop.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit around Sidaire?
Yes, several castles in the area are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle, with its museum and heritage center, offers an engaging historical experience for all ages. Castle Coole provides extensive parklands for exploration, and its mansion offers insight into historical life. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings also host exhibitions that can be interesting for families.
What is the historical significance of castles in the Sidaire area?
The castles around Sidaire, particularly in County Fermanagh, reflect a rich and often turbulent history. They tell stories of Irish rebellions, sieges, and changing ownership. For example, Enniskillen Castle has served as a military barracks and a defensive structure, while Old Castle Archdale was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641. These sites offer a glimpse into centuries of regional heritage.
Are there hiking trails near the castles around Sidaire?
Yes, the area around Sidaire offers various hiking opportunities that can incorporate castle visits. For instance, you can find routes like 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' or 'Ancient Chestnut Tree β Enniskillen Castle loop from Enniskillen'. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Sidaire guide.
Can I visit castle ruins near Sidaire?
Yes, you can visit castle ruins. Old Castle Archdale is a significant ruin, built in the 1600s and destroyed by fire in 1689, offering a glimpse into its past on a forest clifftop. Necarne Castle, once known as Irvine Castle, is also a ruin that was used as a military hospital during WWII.
What is the best time of year to visit castles around Sidaire?
The best time to visit castles around Sidaire is generally during the spring (April-May) and summer (June-August) months. The weather is milder, and the longer daylight hours allow for more extensive exploration of both the castles and their surrounding natural landscapes. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable.
Are there easy-to-access castles or walks near Sidaire?
Many of the castles are accessible, and some offer easy walks. For example, the grounds of Castle Coole feature beautiful parklands with easy walking paths. You can also find easy hiking routes like 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' or 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole' in the Easy hikes around Sidaire guide.
What natural features can I see near these castles?
The castles are often set amidst beautiful natural landscapes. Old Castle Archdale is located within a large forest, offering views from its clifftop position. Castle Coole is surrounded by a 1,200-acre wooded estate with oak, ash, and beech trees. The wider County Fermanagh region is known for its undulating hillsides and the Ballinamallard River.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles near Sidaire?
Visitors appreciate the rich history and the picturesque settings of these castles. Many enjoy exploring the stories behind structures like Enniskillen Castle and wandering through the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale, imagining life centuries ago. The beautiful parklands of places like Castle Coole are also highly valued for their scenic beauty.
Are there running trails available near the castles?
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity of the castles. You can find routes such as 'Lough Coole and Castle Coole running loop from Enniskillen' or 'Race Course Lough via Forthill Park running loop'. More options are available in the Running Trails around Sidaire guide.
How long should I plan to explore a castle near Sidaire?
The time needed varies by castle. For a comprehensive visit to Enniskillen Castle and its museum, plan for 2-3 hours. Exploring the mansion and extensive grounds of Castle Coole could take half a day. For ruins like Old Castle Archdale or Necarne Castle, an hour or two might suffice, especially if combined with a walk in the surrounding area.
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