Attractions and Places To See around Drumboarty - Top 4
Best attractions and places to see around Drumboarty include a variety of historical sites and natural monuments. The region features ancient castles, prehistoric stone circles, and significant religious landmarks. Visitors can explore remnants of past eras and enjoy the diverse outdoor environment. Drumboarty offers a range of experiences for those interested in history and local heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Drumboarty
- The most popular attractions is Old Castle Archdale, a forest that sits on a clifftop…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment
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Necarne Castle
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The Penal Cross, Garden of Celtic Saints
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Popular around Drumboarty
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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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Drumskinny Stone Circle is one of five in the area. It dates back to 2000BC and is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions or astronomical observations. There are 39 stones that make up the circle which are all placed around a small cairn.
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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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Drumskinny Stone Circle is one of five stone circles located in the area. Although its exact purpose isn't known, it is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions, or astronomical observations. The circle is made up of 39 stones placed around a small round cairn. Entrance to the site is free.
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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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The Garden is located on the property of Sacred Heart Church. Admission is free. Access to the main area is restricted to specific hours but the Famine Memorial portion is unrestricted. It features wooden sculptures by Jonas Raiskas.
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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
Are there family-friendly attractions in Drumboarty?
Yes, Drumboarty offers several family-friendly attractions. The Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is a historical site dating back to 2000BC, offering an engaging glimpse into ancient history. Additionally, The Penal Cross, Garden of Celtic Saints, located on the property of Sacred Heart Church, is also considered family-friendly and features wooden sculptures.
What historical sites can I visit in Drumboarty?
Drumboarty is rich in historical sites. You can explore the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle built on a clifftop within a vast forest. Another significant site is Necarne Castle, which served as a military hospital during WWII. Don't miss the ancient Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment, a monument from 2000BC believed to have been used for religious ceremonies or astronomical observations.
Are there opportunities for hiking near Drumboarty's attractions?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities around Drumboarty. You can find easy trails like the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. For more options, explore the Hiking around Drumboarty guide, which lists various routes suitable for different skill levels.
What cycling routes are available in the Drumboarty area?
The Drumboarty area offers a variety of cycling routes. Options include the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' and routes around Old Castle Archdale and Necarne Castle. For a comprehensive list of routes, check out the Cycling around Drumboarty guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Drumboarty guide.
Is there parking available at Drumboarty attractions?
Yes, parking is generally available at the attractions. For instance, Necarne Castle offers free parking. It's always advisable to check specific location details before your visit for the most up-to-date parking information.
What is the best time to visit Drumboarty for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit Drumboarty for outdoor activities, including exploring its historical sites and natural monuments, is typically during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This allows for comfortable exploration of sites like Old Castle Archdale and the Drumskinny Stone Circle.
Are there any religious landmarks to visit in Drumboarty?
Yes, Drumboarty features religious landmarks. The Penal Cross, Garden of Celtic Saints is located on the property of Sacred Heart Church and offers free admission. While the main area has specific hours, the Famine Memorial portion is always accessible.
Can I visit Drumboarty attractions in winter?
Many of Drumboarty's attractions, especially outdoor historical sites like Drumskinny Stone Circle and the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, can be visited in winter. However, be prepared for colder weather and potentially shorter daylight hours. Some trails might be muddy, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Drumboarty?
Drumboarty's attractions are often set within natural landscapes. Old Castle Archdale is situated on a clifftop within a 520-hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest, offering scenic views and forest walks. The region's overall outdoor environment provides a diverse backdrop for its historical sites.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Drumboarty?
Visitors to Drumboarty appreciate the rich historical context and the serene natural settings of the attractions. The crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale, perched atop a cliff, allow visitors to imagine life centuries ago. The ancient Drumskinny Stone Circle offers a unique glimpse into prehistoric times, often described as a peaceful and intriguing site. The komoot community has shared 13 photos and given 12 upvotes, highlighting the visual appeal and historical significance of these locations.
Are there any easy walks or beginner hiking trails near Drumboarty attractions?
Yes, there are several easy walks suitable for beginners near Drumboarty's attractions. For example, the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' route is an easy 4.6 km hike, and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' is an easy 5.2 km walk. These trails allow you to explore the historical sites within a comfortable distance. More easy options can be found in the Hiking around Drumboarty guide.
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