Attractions and Places To See around Drumbane - Top 16
Best attractions and places to see around Drumbane, a townland in County Tipperary, Ireland, offer a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. While Drumbane itself features the remains of Drumbane Castle, the broader County Tipperary provides a diverse range of historical, natural, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore ancient castles, significant historical monuments, and scenic natural features. The region is characterized by its rich heritage and varied outdoor opportunities.
Best attractions and places to see around Drumbane
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Last updated: May 9, 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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Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment
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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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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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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 in and around Drumbane?
Drumbane itself features the remains of Drumbane Castle, a cylindrical tower house. Beyond Drumbane, County Tipperary is rich in history. You can explore the iconic Rock of Cashel with its medieval buildings, the well-preserved Cahir Castle, or the Elizabethan Ormond Castle in Carrick-on-Suir. Other notable sites include the 19th-century Swiss Cottage and Derrynaflan Island, known for its archaeological significance.
Are there any ancient monuments or archaeological sites near Drumbane?
Yes, you can visit the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment, a historical site dating back to 2000 BC. This stone circle, composed of 39 stones around a small cairn, is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies or astronomical observations. Entrance to the site is free.
What natural attractions are there in County Tipperary?
County Tipperary offers several beautiful natural features. The Glen of Aherlow is a magnificent valley between the Galtee and Slievenamuck Mountains, perfect for walks. Lough Derg is the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland, offering stunning views and watersports. The Galtee Mountains provide challenging hikes, and the River Suir is a protected Special Area of Conservation, known for trout angling.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Drumbane?
Many historical sites are suitable for families. For instance, Tully Castle Ruins has a visitor's centre in a restored farmhouse that tells local stories related to the castle. The Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is also considered family-friendly and offers a glimpse into ancient history.
What outdoor activities can I do near Drumbane?
The area around Drumbane is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various routes for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. For easy walks, explore options like the easy hikes around Drumbane, which include routes like Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island. Cyclists can enjoy loops such as the Castle Archdale loop, and mountain bikers have trails like the Drumskinny stone circle and Lough Bradan loop.
Where can I find historical castles or ruins in the Drumbane area?
You can visit the remains of Drumbane Castle itself. Other significant ruins include Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle situated on a forest clifftop, and Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house that was attacked and burned in 1641 and never reoccupied.
Are there any cultural centers or museums in County Tipperary?
Yes, the Brú Ború Cultural Centre at the foot of the Rock of Cashel offers traditional music performances and an exhibition hall. The Tipperary Museum of Hidden History provides an interactive experience of the region's past, covering topics from medieval times to the 19th century.
What is the significance of Castle Archdale in the area?
Castle Archdale has both historical and wartime significance. You can explore the remains of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings were a major base for flying boats during WWII, housing up to 2,500 people, and sometimes host exhibitions about this period.
Can I find any unique religious or early Christian sites near Drumbane?
Yes, you can visit Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones. Located in a graveyard, this site features several interesting stones, including the Bishops stone, a bullaun stone with cup-shaped hollows, and a holed stone, offering a glimpse into early Christian heritage.
What is the best way to experience the natural beauty of the Glen of Aherlow?
The Glen of Aherlow, nestled between the Galtee and Slievenamuck Mountains, is ideal for walking. It offers numerous looped walks and mountain treks suitable for various fitness levels, allowing you to immerse yourself in the lush scenery and enjoy the River Aherlow.
What is the equine heritage of the region?
County Tipperary has a strong equine heritage. You can learn more about it at the Fethard Horse Country Experience, which provides insight into the region's deep connection with horses.
Are there any towns near Drumbane known for specific cultural aspects?
Yes, Thurles is known as the 'Home of Hurling' and is the birthplace of the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA). It is home to Semple Stadium, the second-largest stadium in Ireland, making it a significant spot for sports enthusiasts.
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