Best attractions and places to see around Tullanaginn include a variety of historical sites and natural features. This region offers 13 distinct places to explore, ranging from ancient castles to prehistoric stone circles. Visitors can discover historical monuments and serene forest settings, making it suitable for those seeking cultural insights and easy walks around Tullanaginn. The area provides opportunities to engage with local history and natural landscapes.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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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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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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The region is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle set within a vast forest. Another significant historical castle site 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 ceremonies or astronomical observations. Additionally, Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones offers a glimpse into early Christian heritage with its unique carved stones.
Yes, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings are considered family-friendly. This site, once a major base during WWII, sometimes hosts exhibitions detailing its historical use. The nearby Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is also a fascinating spot for families to explore ancient history in an outdoor setting.
The area offers beautiful natural settings, particularly around Old Castle Archdale, which is situated on a forest clifftop within a 520-hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. This provides ample opportunities for enjoying nature and forest walks.
Yes, there are several easy hiking routes available. For example, you can find easy trails around Old Castle Archdale and Necarne Castle. You can discover more options, including routes like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle', on the Easy hikes around Tullanaginn guide page.
Beyond exploring historical sites, the region is great for cycling and hiking. You can find various routes for road cycling, touring bicycles, and easy hikes. For detailed routes and guides, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Tullanaginn, Cycling around Tullanaginn, and Easy hikes around Tullanaginn guide pages.
For sites like Old Castle Archdale or Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment, you might spend 1-2 hours exploring the ruins and surrounding areas. For Necarne Castle, which is a ruin, a shorter visit might suffice, especially if combined with a walk in the nearby woods. Allow more time if you plan to combine visits with hiking or cycling.
While not widely publicized, the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones offer a unique historical experience with ancient carved stones, including the notable Bishop's stone and a holed stone, which are less commonly visited than the castles or stone circles.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale, perched atop a cliff within a thick forest, allow for an imaginative step back in time. The ancient mystery of Drumskinny Stone Circle also captivates those interested in prehistoric history and observations.
While specific parking details for every site are not provided, Necarne Castle mentions free parking. For other attractions, particularly those within forest parks like Old Castle Archdale, parking facilities are typically available at the entrance to the forest or park areas.
Yes, the komoot community has mapped several circular routes. For instance, within the easy hikes category, you can find options like 'Castle Archdale Marina – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from White Island' and 'View of Tom's Island – Old Castle Archdale loop from White Island'. These and other circular routes can be found on the Easy hikes around Tullanaginn guide page.
Yes, Necarne Castle was used as a military hospital during WWII. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings were part of a major flying boat base during the war, housing up to 2,500 people, and sometimes host exhibitions on this period.


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