Top 5 Castles around Thornhill Glebe
Best castles around Thornhill Glebe offer a journey through centuries of regional history, featuring structures from the 16th to 18th centuries. This area is home to significant historical sites, including well-preserved castles and evocative ruins. Visitors can explore landmarks that played roles in historical events, showcasing diverse architectural styles. The landscape provides a backdrop for these historical sites, inviting exploration.
Best castles around Thornhill Glebe
- The most popular castles is Enniskillen Castle, a historical site that tells stories from…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
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Castle Coole
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Necarne Castle
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Monea Castle Ruins
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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.
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Run past the beautiful Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th century manor house set in a gorgeous 1,200 acre wooded landscape park.
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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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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.
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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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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.
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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.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical periods do the castles around Thornhill Glebe represent?
The castles in the Thornhill Glebe area span several significant historical periods. You can explore the 16th-century Enniskillen Castle, which played a role in Irish rebellions, the 18th-century neoclassical mansion Castle Coole, and the 17th-century Plantation-era Monea Castle Ruins, built in a distinct Scottish style.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Thornhill Glebe?
Yes, several castles in the area are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle offers a museum experience, while Castle Coole provides extensive parklands for exploration. The Monea Castle Ruins are also free to visit and offer a glimpse into the past.
What are the opening hours for the castles?
Enniskillen Castle is typically open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM Monday to Friday, and 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends. The Monea Castle Ruins are free to visit and generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday to Friday. For Castle Coole, you can visit the mansion and its grounds, with entrance to the grounds costing £5 per adult.
Are there any castle ruins that are free to visit?
Yes, the Monea Castle Ruins are free to visit. These 17th-century Plantation-era ruins offer a historical experience without an entrance fee.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the castles?
Around Castle Coole, you'll find a magnificent 1,200-acre wooded estate with beautiful parklands dotted with oak, ash, and beech trees. Some areas are used for grazing cattle and sheep. Enniskillen Castle is situated on the banks of the River Erne, providing scenic waterside views.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The Thornhill Glebe area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, including loops around Lough Erne and Enniskillen Castle. There are also running trails, such as the Lough Coole and Castle Coole loop, and hiking options like the Ancient Chestnut Tree loop. For more details, explore the Road Cycling Routes, Running Trails, and Hiking around Thornhill Glebe guides.
Are there hiking trails near the castles?
Yes, there are several hiking trails. Near Castle Coole, you can enjoy easy loops like the Ancient Chestnut Tree loop or the Lough Coole loop. There are also easy hiking routes around Enniskillen Castle. You can find more information in the Hiking around Thornhill Glebe guide.
What is the history of Enniskillen Castle?
Enniskillen Castle, built in the 16th century, has a rich history involving Irish rebellions against English rule, sieges, and even protection from French invasion. It was founded by Hugh 'The Hospitable' Maguire and belonged to the Maguire family for centuries. After being decommissioned as an army barracks in the 1950s, it was refurbished and now serves as a heritage center and museum dedicated to the region's history.
What is unique about Castle Coole?
Castle Coole is an outstanding example of an 18th-century neoclassical mansion in Ireland. Set within a vast 1,200-acre wooded estate, it was originally built as a summer retreat for the Earls of Belmore. Visitors can explore the grand house and its extensive parklands, offering a glimpse into aristocratic life and impressive architecture.
Can I visit Necarne Castle?
Necarne Castle is a ruin that was once known as Irvine Castle. While it has a history, including serving as a military hospital during WWII, it is now closed to urban explorers and is monitored by CCTV. The route nearby is primarily for walking, with a notable horse farm in the vicinity.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Thornhill Glebe?
While specific seasonal considerations are not detailed for all castles, visiting during spring or summer generally offers pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor grounds of places like Castle Coole and the Monea Castle Ruins. Indoor attractions like the museum at Enniskillen Castle are accessible year-round.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles in this region?
Visitors appreciate the diverse historical experience offered by the castles, ranging from 16th-century strongholds to 18th-century mansions and 17th-century ruins. The opportunity to delve into Irish history, explore grand estates, and enjoy the surrounding natural landscapes, such as the River Erne near Enniskillen Castle and the wooded parklands of Castle Coole, is highly valued.
Most popular attractions around Thornhill Glebe
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