Top 5 Castles around Rossigh
Best castles around Rossigh are situated in County Fermanagh, a region known for its historical sites and natural landscapes, particularly around Lough Erne. Rossigh serves as an access point to this area, which features a variety of historical castles. The region offers insights into Irish history and architecture, with several notable castles located within a short distance. These sites provide opportunities to explore ancient ruins and historical narratives.
Best castles around Rossigh
- The most popular castles is Old Castle Archdaleโฆ
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Tully Castle Ruins
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Necarne Castle
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Monea Castle Ruins
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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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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.
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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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This fortified house and bawn are set on Tully Point and were built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve by Rory Maguire and the inhabitants massacred. It was not lived in again. A visitorโs centre, located in a restored farmhouse, houses an exhibition telling local stories relating to the castle. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tully-castle-p675521)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore near Rossigh?
The area around Rossigh, within County Fermanagh, offers a diverse range of castles. You can find 17th-century Plantation-era fortified houses like Tully Castle Ruins and Monea Castle Ruins, 15th-century Gaelic strongholds such as Enniskillen Castle, and even magnificent 18th-century Neo-classical mansions like Castle Coole. These sites provide insights into various historical periods and architectural styles.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Rossigh?
Yes, several castles in the region are suitable for families. Tully Castle Ruins and Monea Castle Ruins are noted as family-friendly. Enniskillen Castle, with its two museums, also offers an engaging experience for all ages. Castle Coole's extensive parklands are great for children to explore.
Which castles offer historical insights into the Plantation era?
Several castles near Rossigh provide a window into the 17th-century Plantation era. Tully Castle Ruins, built in 1612 by Sir John Hume, is a prime example, with a visitor's center detailing local stories. Old Castle Archdale, built in the 1600s, and Monea Castle Ruins, built in 1616 in a Scottish style, also date from this period and offer rich historical context.
Can I find hiking trails near these castles?
Absolutely. Many castles are situated within or near areas with walking and hiking opportunities. For example, you can find easy hikes around Old Castle Archdale and Necarne Castle. There are also easy routes like the 'Tully Castle Ruins loop from Heron Island' near Tully Castle Ruins. You can explore more options in the Easy hikes around Rossigh guide.
What cycling routes are available near the castles?
The region offers various cycling routes that pass by or near several castles. For road cycling, you can find routes like the 'Boa Island and Pettigo loop from Old Castle Archdale' or the 'Enniskillen Castle โ Enniskillen Castle loop from Irvinestown'. Touring cyclists might enjoy the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' or the 'Tully Castle Ruins โ Lough Melvin loop'. Discover more in the Road Cycling Routes around Rossigh and Cycling around Rossigh guides.
What is the best time to visit the castles around Rossigh?
The Fermanagh Lakelands, where Rossigh is located, are beautiful year-round. However, late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offers the most pleasant weather for exploring outdoor ruins and estate grounds. During these months, visitor centers and attractions typically have extended opening hours. Some castles, like Monea Castle Ruins, are free to visit and open year-round during weekdays.
Are there any castles with museums or visitor centers?
Yes, Enniskillen Castle houses both the Fermanagh County Museum and The Inniskillings Museum, offering extensive exhibits on local and military history. Tully Castle Ruins also has a visitor's center in a restored farmhouse that tells local stories related to the castle.
What are the parking options for visiting these castles?
Parking availability varies by site. For example, Necarne Castle offers free parking. Larger sites like Castle Coole and Enniskillen Castle typically have dedicated parking facilities, though charges may apply. It's advisable to check specific castle websites for detailed parking information before your visit.
Can I visit castles that are part of larger estates or parks?
Yes, several castles are located within extensive estates or forest parks, offering more than just the castle itself. Old Castle Archdale is situated within a large forest. Castle Coole is set within a 1,200-acre wooded estate, and Crom Castle is part of a 1,900-acre National Trust property, both providing beautiful parklands and wildlife to explore.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Rossigh?
Visitors appreciate the rich history and architectural variety of the castles. Many enjoy wandering the crumbling walls of sites like Old Castle Archdale, imagining life centuries ago. The tranquil settings, especially at places like Crom Castle Estate with its ancient yew trees, are also highly valued. The combination of historical exploration and natural beauty is a significant draw.
Are there any castles that were used during World War II?
Yes, Necarne Castle, once known as Irvine Castle, was in use as late as WWII as a military hospital. Additionally, the broader Castle Archdale area, including the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, served as a major base for flying boats during WWII, housing up to 2,500 RAF personnel.
Are the castle sites generally accessible for visitors?
Accessibility varies by site. Many of the older ruins, like Old Castle Archdale, are perched on cliffs or within forests, which may involve uneven terrain. However, sites like Tully Castle have visitor centers that are typically accessible. Modern attractions like Enniskillen Castle and National Trust properties such as Castle Coole often provide better accessibility features. It's recommended to check individual castle websites for specific accessibility information.
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