Attractions and Places To See around Drumskool - Top 15
Best attractions and places to see around Drumskool include a collection of historical sites and natural areas. This region features several notable landmarks, including ancient castles and priory ruins, set within forested landscapes. Visitors can explore sites with significant historical and cultural importance, offering insights into past eras. The area provides opportunities to discover historical architecture and natural surroundings.
Best attractions and places to see around Drumskool
- The most popular attractions is Old Castle Archdale, a forest and historical…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Tully Castle Ruins
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Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Necarne Castle
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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
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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
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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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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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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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This fortified house is on Tully Point and built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked by John Maguire and burned on Christmas Eve with all its inhabitants massacred. After that it was not lived in again. There is a visitors centre in a restored farmhouse that has an interesting exhibition telling a number of stories relating to the castle. To visit the castle be sure to step off the bike as it is on foot only!
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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Drumskool?
The Drumskool area is rich in history, featuring several significant sites. You can visit Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle situated on Castle Hill within a large forest, known for its role in the Irish Rebellion of 1641. Another notable ruin is Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house attacked and burned in 1641, which now has a visitor's center. Don't miss Necarne Castle, once known as Irvine Castle and used as a military hospital during WWII. Additionally, explore the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, featuring ancient carved stones and religious artifacts.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Drumskool region?
Yes, Drumskool offers attractions suitable for families. Tully Castle Ruins is a great option, offering a glimpse into history with a visitor's center that shares local stories. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings also provide a family-friendly historical experience, sometimes hosting exhibitions about their role as a WWII flying boat base.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Drumskool's attractions?
The area around Drumskool is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various activities like hiking and cycling. For detailed routes and guides, check out the Hiking around Drumskool guide, which includes easy trails like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. If you prefer cycling, explore the Cycling around Drumskool guide for routes such as the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop'.
Where can I find historical religious sites or ancient stones?
For those interested in ancient religious history, the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones are a must-see. Located in a graveyard, you'll find several intriguing stones, including the noted Bishops stone, a large slab with cup-shaped hollows, and a holed stone, all offering insights into early Christian heritage.
Are there any forested areas or natural viewpoints to visit?
Absolutely. Old Castle Archdale is situated within a vast 520-hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle itself sits on a forest clifftop, offering a natural viewpoint and a chance to explore a historical site nestled in nature.
What is the history behind Necarne Castle?
Necarne Castle, originally known as Irvine Castle, has a rich past. It served as a military hospital during World War II. Although now a ruin, its history as a significant structure in the region is well-documented, making it an interesting historical site to visit.
Can I learn about World War II history in Drumskool?
Yes, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings offer a connection to WWII history. During the war, Castle Archdale was a major base for flying boats, housing up to 2,500 RAF personnel. These courtyard buildings were central to their operations, and sometimes exhibitions are held here to highlight the area's wartime significance.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Drumskool?
Visitors to Drumskool's attractions often appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. They enjoy exploring the crumbling walls of ancient castles like Old Castle Archdale, imagining life centuries ago, and discovering the stories behind sites like Tully Castle Ruins. The presence of forested landscapes and unique early Christian stones also adds to the appeal, offering a diverse and engaging experience.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners near Drumskool attractions?
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails available. For instance, the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' routes are both rated as easy. You can find more details and other beginner-friendly options in the Hiking around Drumskool guide.
Where can I find information about road cycling routes in the Drumskool area?
For road cycling enthusiasts, the Road Cycling Routes around Drumskool guide provides various options. You can explore routes like the 'Boa Island and Pettigo loop from Old Castle Archdale' which is an easy ride, or more moderate options such as the 'Celtic Crosses Cemetery – Racecourse Lough loop from Irvinestown'.
What is the significance of Tully Castle Ruins?
Tully Castle Ruins holds a poignant history. Built for Sir John Hume, it was tragically attacked and burned on Christmas Eve in 1641 by Rory Maguire, with its inhabitants massacred. The castle was never reoccupied after this event. Today, a visitor’s center in a restored farmhouse tells the local stories related to this significant historical site.
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