Top 5 Castles around Car Island
Best castles around Car Island offer a journey through centuries of history and architecture. This region features a collection of historical sites, from well-preserved mansions to ancient ruins. Visitors can explore structures that tell tales of rebellions, sieges, and aristocratic life. The area provides opportunities to engage with historical narratives and appreciate diverse architectural styles.
Best castles around Car Island
- The most popular castles is Enniskillen Castle, a historical site that has many stories to tell, from Irish rebellions…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
In …
Tip by
Castle Coole
Highlight • Castle
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 Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Monea Castle Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The magnificent Enniskillen Castle is situated in the heart of Enniskillen on the banks of the River Erne. The castle was founded in the 15th century by Hugh 'The Hospitable' Maguire and belonged to the Maguire family for centuries. Between 2007 and 2013 a massive refurbishment took place so that the castle could be opened to the public. Today you can explore the castle grounds and learn about this landmarks rich history.
1
0
Run past the beautiful Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th century manor house set in a gorgeous 1,200 acre wooded landscape park.
1
0
The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
1
1
Castle Coole is one of the most magnificent Neo-classical houses in Ireland set in a 1,200 acre (490 ha) wooded estate. Built in the 18th century, the grand mansion was home to the Earls of Belmore. The 7th Earl Belmore gave the manion to the National Trust in 1951. The house was originally constructed as a summer retreat and cost £57,000, the equivalent of around £20 million today. It is set amongst beautiful parklands dotted with oak, ash and beech trees. Some of the land is given to local farmers to graze their cattle and sheep. You can visit the mansion and its grounds for an insight of how life would once have been for its wealthy inhabitants and their staff. Entrance to the grounds costs £5 per adult.
1
0
Like many other castles in the area, Monea Castle was built during the Plantation in the 17th century, when settlers from Great Britain colonised lands in Ireland. The Scottish Reverend Malcolm Hamilton built the castle in 1616 in a distinctly Scottish style. The castle was attacked and occupied during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and was lived in by the family of colonel Gustav Hamilton until 1704. A few decades later, a fire destroyed much of the castle, leaving it ruined as it is today. The ruins are free to visit and open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
1
0
Built in the 16th century, Enniskillen Castle has many stories to tell – from Irish rebellions against English rule to sieges and protection from the threat of French invasion. In the 1950s, the castle was decommissioned as an army barracks and opened as a heritage centre. Today, you can visit the museum to learn about the region's history. The castle is open from 9.30am to 5pm (Monday to Friday) and from 11am - 5pm on weekends.
3
0
Castle Coole is a late 18th century neoclassical mansion in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. The house is situated on a 5 km² wooded estate. Unfortunately, I could not visit it, because it was already too late. The interior design and decor should be impressive.
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
Is Car Island a real geographical location known for castles?
While "Car Island" is used as a thematic name for this guide, it is not a recognized geographical location with castles. The castles featured in this guide, such as Enniskillen Castle and Castle Coole, are actually located in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.
Where are the castles mentioned in this guide actually located?
The castles highlighted in this guide, including Enniskillen Castle, Castle Coole, Necarne Castle, and Monea Castle Ruins, are situated in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.
What are some of the most popular castles to visit in the region?
Among the most popular are Enniskillen Castle, known for its rich history of Irish rebellions and sieges, and Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th-century Neo-classical mansion set within a vast wooded estate.
Are there family-friendly castles in the area?
Yes, several castles are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle operates as a heritage centre and museum, offering engaging historical insights. Castle Coole, with its extensive parklands, is also a great option for families. Additionally, Monea Castle Ruins are free to visit and offer an interesting historical exploration.
What kind of history can I explore at these castles?
The castles offer a deep dive into centuries of history. Enniskillen Castle tells tales of Irish rebellions and sieges. Castle Coole provides insight into 18th-century aristocratic life. Monea Castle Ruins showcase 17th-century Plantation architecture and the impact of the Irish Rebellion of 1641.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including the 'Derrygonnelly & Boho loop' and 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail'. For hikers, there are easy trails like the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop' near Castle Coole. Running enthusiasts can enjoy routes such as the 'Lough Coole and Castle Coole running loop'. Explore more options in the cycling, hiking, and running guides for the area.
Are there any castles that are free to visit?
Yes, Monea Castle Ruins are free to visit and open to the public from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. While the grounds of Castle Coole have an entrance fee, exploring the exterior and surrounding parklands is a worthwhile experience.
What are the opening hours for the castles?
Enniskillen Castle is open from 9:30 am to 5 pm (Monday to Friday) and from 11 am to 5 pm on weekends. Monea Castle Ruins are open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. For specific details on other sites like Castle Coole, it's advisable to check their official websites for current operating hours and any potential entrance fees.
Can I visit the castles in winter?
Some castles, like Enniskillen Castle, operate year-round, though hours may vary. Monea Castle Ruins are accessible during daylight hours on weekdays. It's always best to verify specific winter opening times directly with each castle before planning your visit, as some may have reduced hours or closures.
Are there any castle ruins to explore?
Yes, Monea Castle Ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into 17th-century history, built in a distinct Scottish style. Another ruin is Necarne Castle, though it is currently closed to urban explorers due to its dilapidated state.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in this region?
Visitors appreciate the rich historical narratives, from Irish rebellions to aristocratic life, and the diverse architectural styles. The opportunity to explore well-preserved estates and ancient ruins, often set within beautiful natural landscapes, is highly valued by the komoot community.
Are there walking trails associated with the castles?
Yes, many castles are situated within scenic areas perfect for walks. For instance, Castle Coole is set in a 1,200-acre wooded estate with beautiful parklands, ideal for leisurely strolls. You can find specific walking routes, such as the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop' near Castle Coole, in the easy hikes guide for the area.
Most popular routes around Car Island
Most popular attractions around Car Island
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Car Island:
