Top 5 Castles around Drumcaw
Best castles around Drumcaw are found in the surrounding areas, offering a glimpse into historical architecture and events. The region features a mix of castle ruins and fortified houses, often set within natural landscapes like forests or on strategic hilltops. These sites provide insights into the area's past, including 17th-century plantations and rebellions. Exploring these locations allows visitors to connect with the historical significance of the Drumcaw location.
Best castles around Drumcaw
- The most popular castles is Old Castle Archdaleβ¦
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 visitorβs 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 historical sites and castles can I explore around Drumcaw?
Around Drumcaw, you can explore a variety of historical sites, including 17th-century plantation castles, fortified houses, and medieval remains. These range from well-preserved ruins to sites with visitor centers, offering a glimpse into the region's past events like the Irish Rebellion of 1641.
Are there any family-friendly castles to visit near Drumcaw?
Yes, several castles around Drumcaw are suitable for families. Tully Castle Ruins and Monea Castle Ruins are noted as family-friendly. Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings also offer historical insights in a setting that can be enjoyed by all ages, sometimes hosting exhibitions.
What are some of the most historically significant castles in the Drumcaw area?
The region boasts several historically significant castles. Old Castle Archdale, built in 1615, was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed by fire. Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house, was attacked and burned in 1641. Monea Castle Ruins, built in a distinct Scottish style during the Plantation era, also saw action during the 1641 rebellion.
Can I find any castles with scenic views or natural surroundings near Drumcaw?
Yes, many castles are set within beautiful natural landscapes. Old Castle Archdale is situated on a forest clifftop, offering impressive views. While not open to the public, the estate around Castlewellan Castle (mentioned in regional research) features a lake and extensive trails, perfect for outdoor activities and scenic walks. Dundrum Castle, also nearby, provides panoramic views from its hilltop position.
Are there walking or hiking trails near the castles around Drumcaw?
Yes, there are numerous walking and hiking opportunities. For instance, Old Castle Archdale is located within a large forest, offering trails. You can find specific hiking routes like the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. For more details on these and other trails, refer to the Hiking around Drumcaw guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles in the Drumcaw area?
Beyond exploring the castles themselves, the area around Drumcaw offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on trails near Old Castle Archdale, Necarne Castle, and Monea Castle Ruins. Road cycling routes are also available, with options starting from Irvinestown that can take you past historical sites. Check the Running Trails around Drumcaw and Road Cycling Routes around Drumcaw guides for detailed routes.
Is there a visitor center or additional information available at any of the castle sites?
Yes, at Tully Castle Ruins, there is a visitor's center located in a restored farmhouse. It houses an exhibition that tells local stories related to the castle, providing deeper historical context for your visit.
Are any of the castles around Drumcaw free to visit?
Yes, Monea Castle Ruins are free to visit and are generally open from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. It's always a good idea to check for any changes to opening hours before your visit.
What is the history behind <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/649300" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Necarne Castle</a>?
Necarne Castle, once known as Irvine Castle, has a varied history. It served as a military hospital during WWII before falling into ruin. While it is now a ruin and closed to urban explorers, its past as a significant site, including its connection to the town of Irvinestown, makes it an interesting historical landmark.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the castles and historical sites in this region?
Visitors appreciate the opportunity to connect with the area's rich history, exploring sites like Old Castle Archdale and Tully Castle Ruins. The natural settings, such as the forest surrounding Old Castle Archdale, and the panoramic views from locations like Dundrum Castle, are also highly valued. The komoot community has shown appreciation for these sites with numerous upvotes and photos, highlighting their diverse historical experiences.
Are there any castles around Drumcaw that played a role in World War II?
Yes, Necarne Castle (then known as Irvine Castle) was used as a military hospital during WWII. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings were part of a major base for flying boats during WWII, housing up to 2,500 people, including RAF fighters.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Drumcaw?
While specific seasonal considerations for each castle aren't detailed, visiting during spring or autumn generally offers pleasant weather for exploring ruins and walking trails. Summer provides longer daylight hours, but can be busier. Winter visits are possible, especially for sites like Monea Castle Ruins which are open year-round, but be prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions.
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