Attractions and Places To See around Letterboy - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see around Letterboy include a variety of historical sites, ancient monuments, and natural viewpoints. This region features 13 distinct places to explore, offering insights into local history and scenic landscapes. Visitors can discover ruins of old castles, significant stone circles, and serene lake views. The area provides opportunities for exploring both man-made structures and natural features.
Best attractions and places to see around Letterboy
- The most popular attractions is Old Castle Archdale, a forest…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment
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Necarne Castle
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Rossmore Point Beacon
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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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A white beacon marks the location of Rossmore Point. There is a bench to sit on here where you can enjoy serene views over Lough Erne.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Letterboy?
The Letterboy area is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle built in 1615 and later destroyed by fire. Another significant historical ruin is Necarne Castle, which served as a military hospital during WWII. Don't miss the ancient Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment, dating back to 2000 BC, believed to have been used for religious ceremonies or astronomical observations.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Letterboy area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment offers an engaging historical experience for all ages. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, part of a former WWII base, are considered family-friendly and sometimes host exhibitions. The Rossmore Point Beacon provides a scenic spot for families to enjoy views over Lough Erne.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Letterboy?
For picturesque views, head to Rossmore Point Beacon. This location features a white beacon and a bench, offering serene vistas over Lough Erne. Old Castle Archdale also sits on a forest clifftop, providing a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Letterboy's attractions?
The Letterboy area offers various outdoor activities, particularly hiking, running, and cycling. You can find numerous routes that pass by or start near these attractions. For detailed hiking trails, check out the Easy hikes around Letterboy guide. If you're interested in running, explore the Running Trails around Letterboy. Cyclists can discover routes in the Cycling around Letterboy guide, including parts of the Kingfisher Cycle Trail.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners near Letterboy attractions?
Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The Easy hikes around Letterboy guide features trails like the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle', both rated as easy. These routes allow you to explore the natural beauty and historical sites at a comfortable pace.
What is the significance of Drumskinny Stone Circle?
The Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is one of five stone circles in the area, dating back to 2000 BC. Composed of 39 stones surrounding a small cairn, its exact purpose is unknown, but it is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions, or astronomical observations. Entrance to the site is free.
Can I visit the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings?
Yes, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings are accessible. These buildings were a central location for RAF fighters during WWII when Castle Archdale served as a major flying boat base. Sometimes, exhibitions are held here to showcase the area's wartime history.
What is the history behind Old Castle Archdale?
Old Castle Archdale was built in 1615 by an Englishman who acquired the estate in 1612. It was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed by fire and abandoned in 1689 during the Williamite Wars. Perched on a forest clifftop, its ruins offer a glimpse into centuries past.
What makes Necarne Castle unique?
Necarne Castle, once known as Irvine Castle, is a historical ruin that has seen various uses, including serving as a military hospital during WWII. Today, it is largely overtaken by plant life, giving it a distinctive, atmospheric appearance. While the ruins are closed to urban explorers, the surrounding area offers interesting walks.
Are there any long-distance cycling routes that pass through the Letterboy area?
Yes, the Letterboy area is part of the Kingfisher Cycle Trail. You can find routes like the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' which is an easy, longer distance option for cyclists exploring the region.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Letterboy?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The ancient ruins like Old Castle Archdale and Necarne Castle offer a sense of stepping back in time, while viewpoints like Rossmore Point Beacon provide tranquil lake views. The area's rich history, from prehistoric stone circles to WWII sites, combined with opportunities for outdoor activities, makes it a diverse destination.
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