Top 5 Castles around Coolgarran
Best castles around Coolgarran are found within County Fermanagh, an area characterized by its rich history and the expansive Lough Erne. This region features a landscape dotted with historical estates and significant castle ruins. The castles here offer insights into the Plantation era and earlier Gaelic strongholds. Visitors can explore various sites that reflect centuries of regional history and architectural styles.
Best castles around Coolgarran
- The most popular castles is Enniskillen Castle, a historical site that is a 15th-centuryβ¦
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
Highlight β’ Historical Site
In β¦
Tip by
Old Castle Archdale
Highlight β’ Forest
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
Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
Highlight β’ Monument
Tip by
Necarne Castle
Highlight β’ Historical Site
Tip by
Monea Castle Ruins
Highlight β’ 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
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.
2
0
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
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
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
Built in the 16th century, Enniskillen Castle has many stories to tell βΒ 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
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore around Coolgarran?
The area around Coolgarran, particularly within County Fermanagh, offers a diverse range of historical castles. You'll find 15th-century Gaelic strongholds like Enniskillen Castle, as well as numerous 17th-century Plantation-era castles and ruins such as Old Castle Archdale, Tully Castle, and Monea Castle. These sites reflect centuries of regional history and various architectural styles.
Which castles are particularly good for families?
Several castles around Coolgarran are family-friendly. Enniskillen Castle, with its two museums, offers interactive displays and events suitable for all ages. Monea Castle Ruins are freely accessible and set in an idyllic landscape, providing a quiet historical experience. Castle Archdale Country Park, home to Old Castle Archdale, also offers walking trails and water sports, making it a great day out for families.
Are there any castles with significant historical museums?
Yes, Enniskillen Castle is a prime example. This 15th-century fortress houses both the Fermanagh County Museum and the Inniskillings Museum, offering deep insights into Fermanagh's local and military history through extensive exhibitions.
Where can I find well-preserved examples of Plantation castles?
Monea Castle is considered one of the finest and best-preserved Plantation castles in Fermanagh. Built around 1618, it stands on a rocky bluff and displays clear Scottish architectural influences with its tall, rectangular building and distinctive round towers. Tully Castle also exemplifies Scottish-influenced defensive architecture from the Plantation era.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
Many castles are situated within or near areas offering outdoor activities. For instance, Old Castle Archdale is within Castle Archdale Country Park, which has walking and cycling trails, boating, and water sports. You can find various routes for hiking, running, and road cycling around Coolgarran, including trails like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. For more details on routes, visit the Hiking around Coolgarran guide.
Are there dog-friendly options for visiting castles or nearby areas?
While specific castle interiors may have restrictions, the extensive parklands and outdoor areas surrounding many castles are generally dog-friendly. Castle Archdale Country Park, where Old Castle Archdale is located, offers numerous walking trails suitable for dogs. Always check specific site regulations for any restrictions, especially regarding leads.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Coolgarran?
The Fermanagh Lakelands, where these castles are located, are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer milder weather, longer daylight hours, and lush green landscapes, ideal for exploring ruins and enjoying outdoor activities. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, while winter can offer a more atmospheric and quieter experience, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Always check specific opening times before your visit.
Are there any castles that offer a glimpse into the lives of the Anglo-Irish aristocracy?
Yes, Castle Coole, located near Enniskillen, is a magnificent neo-classical mansion built for the Earls of Belmore. Managed by the National Trust, it offers tours of its opulent interiors and sprawling 1,500-acre parkland, providing a detailed insight into the lavish lifestyle of the Anglo-Irish aristocracy of the 18th century.
What facilities are available at Castle Archdale Country Park?
Castle Archdale Country Park, home to Old Castle Archdale, is a large recreational area. It offers walking and cycling trails, boating and water sports facilities on Lower Lough Erne, birdwatching opportunities, and a visitor's centre. The park also features the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, which sometimes host exhibitions about the area's WWII history.
Can I visit castle ruins that are freely accessible?
Yes, Monea Castle is a remote ruin set in an idyllic landscape and is freely accessible to the public, offering a quiet, historical experience. Tully Castle also allows visitors to explore its ruins, including the bawn and corner towers, with a visitor's centre nearby.
Are there any castles that were involved in the Irish Rebellions?
Many castles in the region have a history intertwined with the Irish Rebellions. Old Castle Archdale was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641. Tully Castle was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve in 1641, and Monea Castle was also attacked during the 1641 rebellion. These sites provide a tangible link to the region's turbulent past.
Most popular routes around Coolgarran
Most popular attractions around Coolgarran
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Coolgarran:
