Attractions and Places To See around Doocrock - Top 4
Best attractions and places to see around Doocrock include a selection of historical landmarks, natural settings, and cultural points of interest. This region offers 4 hidden gems waiting to be explored. Visitors can discover ancient castles, expansive forests, and significant cultural sites.
Best attractions and places to see around Doocrock
- The most popular attraction is Old Castle Archdale, a historical site and forest situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. Built in theβ¦
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
Highlight β’ Forest
Tip by
Necarne Castle
Highlight β’ Historical Site
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
Necarne Forest
Highlight (Segment) β’ Trail
Tip by
The Penal Cross, Garden of Celtic Saints
Highlight β’ Religious Site
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Doocrock
Tips from the Community
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
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
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.
0
0
The Necarne Castle equestrian park includes 200 acres of mixed use land. The walk through these woods features good gravel trails with low grades in a boggy woodland. Continuing will take you through pasture to the castle itself.
4
0
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.
1
0
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.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in Doocrock?
Doocrock offers several significant historical sites. You can explore the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle set within a vast forest. Another notable site is Necarne Castle, a historic ruin that once served as a military hospital during WWII. Additionally, The Penal Cross, Garden of Celtic Saints, located at Sacred Heart Church, features a Famine Memorial with wooden sculptures.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Doocrock?
Yes, Doocrock has options suitable for families. Necarne Forest offers family-friendly trails with low grades, perfect for a leisurely walk. The Garden of Celtic Saints, with its Famine Memorial and sculptures, is also considered family-friendly and offers free admission.
What natural features can I explore around Doocrock?
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the extensive forest surrounding Old Castle Archdale, which spans 520 hectares of coniferous and mixed broadleaved trees. The Necarne Forest, part of the Necarne Castle equestrian park, features 200 acres of mixed-use land with boggy woodlands and pastures, offering a unique natural landscape.
Are there easy walking trails near Doocrock attractions?
Yes, Necarne Forest provides good gravel trails with low grades, making for an easy and pleasant walk through boggy woodlands. These trails also lead towards Necarne Castle.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond exploring the attractions, you can enjoy cycling in the area. There are various routes for both road cycling and touring bicycles. For more details on routes, you can check the Road Cycling Routes around Doocrock guide or the Cycling around Doocrock guide.
Is parking available at Doocrock attractions?
Yes, free parking is available at the Necarne Castle equestrian park, which provides access to the forest trails and the castle ruins.
Are there any cultural points of interest in Doocrock?
The Penal Cross & Garden of Celtic Saints is a significant cultural site. Located on the property of Sacred Heart Church, it features a Famine Memorial with unique wooden sculptures by Jonas Raiskas. Admission to the garden is free.
What do visitors enjoy most about Doocrock's attractions?
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and nature. The crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale, perched atop a cliff within a thick forest, offer a glimpse into the past. The tranquil walks through Necarne Forest and the historical significance of Necarne Castle are also highly valued.
When is the best time to visit Doocrock attractions?
While specific seasonal recommendations are not available, the natural and historical sites like the forests and castle ruins can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. For outdoor activities like walking and cycling, spring to autumn generally offers more favorable weather conditions.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots to explore in Doocrock?
The attractions themselves, such as the expansive Old Castle Archdale and its surrounding 520-hectare forest, or the peaceful Necarne Forest, can feel like hidden gems due to their natural beauty and historical depth. The Garden of Celtic Saints also offers a serene and culturally rich experience that might be less known to some visitors.
Can I access all parts of The Penal Cross, Garden of Celtic Saints at any time?
The Famine Memorial portion of The Penal Cross, Garden of Celtic Saints is always accessible. However, access to the main garden area may be restricted to specific hours.
Most popular routes around Doocrock
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight youβre looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
