Top 5 Castles around Naghan
Best castles around Naghan are situated in a region characterized by historical sites, scenic landscapes, and natural features like lakes and forests. The area offers a blend of medieval ruins and more modern castle estates, providing insights into local history and architecture. Visitors can explore a variety of settings, from forest parks to elevated viewpoints offering panoramic vistas. This region is ideal for those interested in historical exploration combined with outdoor activities.
Best castles around Naghan
- The most popular castles…
Last updated: May 2, 2026
View of Castlewellan Castle
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Clough Castle Ruins
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Dundrum Castle
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Inch Abbey
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The Inch Abbey is another location of …
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Castlewellan Forest Park Lake and Scenic View
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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.
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A very beautiful castle in the forest
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Home to one of the most outstanding tree and shrub collections in Europe. However this beaut has numerous features to spend your time in. There's famous lakes, a stunning Victorian Castle, incredible panoramic views, scenic walking trails, 27km of Mountain Bike Trails, an onsite multi activity centre, hedge maze and equestrian centre, Castlewellan Forest Park boasts all of this and more. A real gem
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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.
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The beautiful Dundrum Castle is located on a hilltop near Dundrum village. Its elevated position provides fantastic panoramic views across Dundrum, the Carrigs Estuary, the Mourne Mountain range and out to the Irish Sea. The castle itself was constructed by John de Courcy at the beginning of the 13th century. It's a fine example of a historic medieval castle of its time.
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This extraordinary castle sits in Castlewellan Forest Park and has a grand view over the lake. From the walking and cycle trail around the lakeside, you can enjoy the fantastic vantage point and admire the castle's turrets. Built in the mid 1800s, the castle was owned by the Annesley family. Its grounds contain a phenomenal arboretum which has been considerably extended and includes giant sequoias. The building is now a Christian conference centre and isn't open to the public. It's well worth seeing from the outside though, and the lawns around the lake are a perfect place for a picnic.
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Lovely looking castle surrounded by a lake and lots of trails for walking and cycling. Unfortunately, the castle is not open to the public and swimming is not allowed in the lake (fishing and boats are fine).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles around Naghan offer the best views?
For stunning panoramic views, visit Dundrum Castle, perched on a hilltop overlooking Dundrum, the Carrigs Estuary, the Mourne Mountains, and the Irish Sea. Clough Castle Ruins also provide excellent vantage points, with views west to Slieve Croob and over historical routes.
Are there any family-friendly castles to visit near Naghan?
Yes, several castles are suitable for families. View of Castlewellan Castle, located within Castlewellan Forest Park, offers trails for walking and cycling around the lake, perfect for a family day out. Clough Castle Ruins and Inch Abbey are also listed as family-friendly historical sites.
What kind of historical sites can I explore in the Naghan region?
The Naghan region boasts a rich history. You can explore the 13th-century Anglo-Norman Dundrum Castle, the medieval ecclesiastical ruins of Inch Abbey, and the c.1200 Anglo-Norman earthwork of Clough Castle Ruins. The 19th-century View of Castlewellan Castle also offers a glimpse into later historical architecture.
Can I bring my dog to any of the castle sites?
Yes, Clough Castle Ruins are dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the historic motte and bailey with your canine companion. Castlewellan Forest Park, where View of Castlewellan Castle is located, also welcomes dogs on its trails.
What outdoor activities are available near the castles around Naghan?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling on routes like the 'Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop – Sketrick Castle loop' or 'Clough Castle Ruins – Dundrum Castle loop'. For hiking, explore trails such as the 'Murlough National Nature Reserve Loop' or the 'Dundrum Coastal Path'. Find more details on these activities in our guides for Road Cycling Routes around Naghan, Easy hikes around Naghan, and Hiking around Naghan.
Are there any castles that are not open to the public for interior tours?
Yes, View of Castlewellan Castle, while picturesque from the outside and set within a beautiful forest park, is not open to the public as it now functions as a Christian conference centre. However, its exterior and surrounding grounds are well worth seeing.
What natural features can I expect to see when visiting castles in this region?
Many castles are nestled amidst beautiful natural landscapes. View of Castlewellan Castle is surrounded by a lake and forest within Castlewellan Forest Park. Dundrum Castle offers views of the Carrigs Estuary and the Mourne Mountains, while Clough Castle Ruins provide views of the surrounding countryside and Slieve Croob.
What is the significance of Inch Abbey?
Inch Abbey is a significant historical and religious site, known for its extensive and picturesque ruins that offer a glimpse into medieval ecclesiastical architecture. It's also recognized as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Are there any castles that are primarily ruins but still interesting to visit?
Absolutely. Clough Castle Ruins, an Anglo-Norman motte and bailey, and the medieval Inch Abbey are both excellent examples of historical ruins that provide a fascinating insight into the past and offer beautiful scenic backdrops.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the castles around Naghan?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical exploration with natural beauty. They enjoy the grand views from castles like Dundrum Castle and Clough Castle Ruins, the serene atmosphere of places like Inch Abbey, and the opportunities for walking and cycling around sites like View of Castlewellan Castle within its forest park.
Is there parking available at the castle sites?
For Clough Castle Ruins, there is a small car park available, though it may not always be well signposted. For other sites like View of Castlewellan Castle within Castlewellan Forest Park, parking facilities are typically provided within the park itself.
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