Best attractions and places to see around Raw include 13 distinct locations for exploration. The region offers a variety of historical sites, ancient monuments, and natural landscapes. Visitors can find opportunities for hiking and cycling, with many hidden gems awaiting discovery.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
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
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Raw.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
1
0
In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
0
0
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.
2
0
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.
2
0
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.
1
0
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.
1
0
The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
1
1
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.
0
0
Raw is rich in history. You can explore the ancient Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment, dating back to 2000BC, which features 39 stones arranged around a small cairn. Another significant site is Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, where you can see ancient carved stones, including the notable Bishop's stone.
Yes, the region features several interesting castle ruins. Visit Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century ruin perched on a cliff within a large forest. You can also see Necarne Castle, a historical site that served as a military hospital during WWII and is now known for its horse farm.
For families, Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment offers an engaging historical experience. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, once a major WWII flying boat base, sometimes host exhibitions that can be interesting for all ages.
Absolutely. Many attractions are situated within areas perfect for walking. For example, Old Castle Archdale is located within a 520-hectare forest with trails. You can find various hiking routes, including easy options like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle', by exploring the Hiking around Raw guide.
Yes, the Raw area offers several cycling opportunities. Routes like the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' or 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop' are available. For more details and route options, check out the Cycling around Raw guide.
The region around Raw features beautiful natural settings, often combined with historical sites. Old Castle Archdale is nestled within a vast coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest, offering a blend of nature and history. The area is generally characterized by its green landscapes and historical monuments.
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. The sense of stepping back in time at places like Old Castle Archdale, with its crumbling walls and forest setting, is often highlighted. The unique historical significance of sites like Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones also draws interest.
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For instance, you can find accessible paths around Old Castle Archdale within the forest. The Easy hikes around Raw guide lists routes such as 'Castle Archdale loop' and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' which are suitable for beginners.
While the main attractions are well-known, the region's historical depth means there are many intriguing, less-trafficked spots. The ancient stones at Killadeas Priory Church, for example, offer a quiet, reflective experience away from larger crowds. Exploring the extensive forest around Old Castle Archdale can also lead to personal discoveries.
The area around Castle Archdale holds significant history. Old Castle Archdale was built in 1615 and played a role in the Irish Rebellion of 1641 before being destroyed in the Williamite Wars. Later, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings became a major base for flying boats during WWII, housing up to 2,500 people.
Yes, the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is a prime example. This site dates back to 2000BC and is believed to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions, or astronomical observations by prehistoric communities.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: