Top 5 Castles around Ballyrenan
Best castles around Ballyrenan are found in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, a region known for its historical significance and natural landscapes. While Ballyrenan itself is primarily recognized for its ancient Portal Tombs, nearby areas feature notable castles and historical sites. The area offers a blend of megalithic architecture and traditional castle ruins, set against the backdrop of the Sperrin Mountains. Visitors can explore sites that reflect both Neolithic practices and later historical periods.
Best castles around Ballyrenan
- The most popular…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location)
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
Castle Ward
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Clough Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
Inch Abbey
Highlight • Historical Site
The Inch Abbey is another location of …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
This historic 12th century building is a typical example of an Anglo-Norman motte with a kidney-shaped bailey. The 7.6m high mound, which once housed a wooden tower, was later replaced by a stone tower house, the ruins of which can still be seen today. Access is via Clough's main road; there is a small car park, but it is not always well signposted. Access is usually permitted. The surrounding countryside, with views of the Mourne Mountains, offers a tranquil atmosphere that invites you to linger.
1
0
National Trust (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_SVBg9R8U Wikipedia (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward “… The most interesting aspect of Castle Ward is that of its dual architecture, representing the differing tastes of Lord Bangor and his wife, Lady Ann Bligh. While the entrance side of the building is done in a classical Palladian style with columns supporting a triangular pediment, the opposite side is Georgian Gothic with pointed windows, battlements and finials. …”
2
1
Great place for a run along the coastline.
0
0
Best known for its role as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property located in Strangford. With its distinctive blend of classical and gothic styles, the castle and its estate grace the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Tours of the castle and estate are available year-round. For more information, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward
0
1
The motte and bailey dates to c.1200 and is an excellent example of an Anglo-Norman earthwork castle. The taller mound, the motte, was built of earth to provide a look-out position and the central defence. Excavations at the top of the motte during the 1950s uncovered a wooden palisade which originally extended around the summit. When you climb the motte you realise what an important position the castle is in, over looking the routes east to Downpatrick, south to Dundrum and north to Belfast Lough. The views from the top of the motte west to Slieve Croob are particularly fine.
1
0
Best known for its place as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property in Strangford. With two unique styles of classical and gothic, the castle & its estate is located in a beautiful location near the shore of Strangford Lough. Tours are available year round of the castle and estate.
3
1
TheIrishRoadTrip ("Game of Thrones Ireland: 16 Filming Locations From The Show”, 2022-10-08): https://www.theirishroadtrip.com/game-of-thrones-filming-locations-northern-ireland/ “… You’ll find the 16th-century Castle Ward, which was the backdrop for the series pilot and a chunk of season one, just 40 minutes from Belfast. Castle Ward was used as ‘Winterfell’ – the home of the Stark family. Its towering medieval walls and now-iconic castle tower gate made it an ideal shooting location for the show. …” #GoT #HouseStark #Winterfell #Westeros Wikipedia (Winterfell (Game of Thrones episode), 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winterfell_(Game_of_Thrones_episode) National Trust(HBO's Game of Thrones at Castle Ward, 2022-10-08): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/castle-ward/features/game-of-thrones-at-castle-ward Peak Discovery Ltd (Winterfell Tours, 2022-10-08) https://www.gameofthrones-winterfelltours.com/thedarkhedges https://youtu.be/RMwzMU7iW_Y Tripadvisor (Game of Thrones - Winterfell Trek from Belfast(, 2022-10-08): https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g186470-d15079832-Game_of_Thrones_Winterfell_Trek_from_Belfast-Belfast_Northern_Ireland.html
1
1
Wikipedia (Castle Ward (Old Castle Ward), 2022-10-08): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward Tripadvisor (Castle Ward, 2022-10-08): https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g664089-d212598-Reviews-Castle_Ward-Strangford_County_Down_Northern_Ireland.html google (Street View, 2022-10-08): https://www.google.com/maps/@54.3732731,-5.5779806,3a,75y,240.79h,82.97t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1sz1-OEQiivuBoui997nWdyA!2e0!7i13312!8i6656
2
1
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there traditional castles directly in Ballyrenan?
Ballyrenan is primarily known for its ancient Portal Tombs, which are significant Neolithic funerary structures. While these offer a rich historical experience, traditional castles are found in the broader surrounding region rather than within Ballyrenan itself.
What are the most notable castles to visit near Ballyrenan?
Some of the most notable castles near Ballyrenan include Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location), known for its unique dual architecture and Game of Thrones connection, and Castle Ward, a National Trust property with scenic views. Additionally, Clough Castle Ruins offers a glimpse into Anglo-Norman history.
What historical sites are there besides castles?
Beyond traditional castles, Ballyrenan is home to remarkable Portal Tombs, ancient megalithic structures over 5,000 years old, showcasing Neolithic architecture. Also, Inch Abbey provides beautiful historical abbey ruins to explore.
Are there family-friendly castles or historical sites near Ballyrenan?
Yes, several sites are family-friendly. Castle Ward and Inch Abbey are both listed as family-friendly. Clough Castle Ruins is also suitable for families.
Which castles near Ballyrenan offer scenic views?
Castle Ward offers scenic views of Strangford Lough. From Clough Castle Ruins, you can enjoy fine views west towards the Mourne Mountains.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Ballyrenan offers various outdoor activities. You can find hiking routes like the 'Delamont Long Walk' or 'Castle Ward Farm Trail', and road cycling routes such as 'Downpatrick to Ballynahinch loop'. For more details, explore the hiking around Ballyrenan guide or the road cycling routes around Ballyrenan guide.
Are there dog-friendly castle ruins near Ballyrenan?
Yes, Clough Castle Ruins is noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the historic motte and bailey with your canine companion.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible castles or sites?
Castle Ward is listed as wheelchair accessible, offering an inclusive experience for visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit castles near Ballyrenan?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring outdoor sites and ruins. However, visiting in autumn can provide beautiful scenery with changing foliage, and winter visits can offer a quieter, more atmospheric experience, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
What are the Portal Tombs of Ballyrenan?
The Portal Tombs of Ballyrenan, also known as Cloghogle, are ancient Neolithic funerary structures over 5,000 years old. They are remarkable for their sophisticated stone-working, including a rare double-chambered design and capstones with cup marks and criss-crossed designs, set against the backdrop of the Sperrin Mountains.
Where can I find parking at these historical sites?
For Clough Castle Ruins, there is a small car park available, though it may not always be clearly signposted. For National Trust properties like Castle Ward, dedicated parking facilities are typically provided for visitors.
What other castles are in the broader region of County Donegal?
In County Donegal, approximately 22-23 km from Ballyrenan, you can find the historic ruins of Raphoe Castle, a 17th-century Bishop's Palace, and Mongavlin Castle, which played a role in Ulster's history.
Most popular routes around Ballyrenan
Most popular attractions around Ballyrenan
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Ballyrenan:
