Top 8 Castles around Ross Inner
Best castles around Ross Inner are found in a region rich in history, featuring a landscape of lakes, forests, and historical sites. This area is home to various fortifications, from medieval tower houses to neoclassical mansions, reflecting centuries of architectural and cultural evolution. The castles here offer insights into past conflicts, noble estates, and daily life from different eras. Exploring these sites provides a direct connection to the region's heritage and natural surroundings.
Best castles around Ross Inner
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Last updated: June 28, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
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Old Castle Archdale
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Tully Castle Ruins
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Castle Coole
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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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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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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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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore around Ross Inner?
The Ross Inner region offers a diverse range of historical fortifications. You can find medieval tower houses like Enniskillen Castle, fortified ruins such as Tully Castle Ruins and Old Castle Archdale, and neoclassical mansions like Castle Coole. These sites reflect centuries of architectural and cultural evolution in the area.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit in Ross Inner?
Yes, several castles around Ross Inner are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle, Tully Castle Ruins, and Castle Coole are all categorized as family-friendly. Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings also offer family-friendly historical insights.
What historical periods do the castles in Ross Inner represent?
The castles in Ross Inner span several significant historical periods. You can explore 15th and 16th-century tower houses like Enniskillen Castle, 17th-century fortifications such as Old Castle Archdale and Tully Castle Ruins, and the grand 18th-century neoclassical mansion of Castle Coole. These sites offer insights into Irish rebellions, Williamite Wars, and the lives of noble families.
Can I learn about local history at these castles?
Absolutely. Enniskillen Castle functions as a heritage center and museum, detailing the region's history from Irish rebellions to sieges. Tully Castle Ruins has a visitor's centre in a restored farmhouse that tells local stories related to the castle's attack and burning in 1641. Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings sometimes host exhibitions on its role as a major flying boat base during WWII.
Are there walking or hiking opportunities near the castles?
Yes, the area around Ross Inner offers various walking and hiking routes. For example, you can find routes like the 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' or the 'Castle Archdale loop' which are easy hikes. For a more moderate challenge, consider the 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Ross Inner guide.
What natural features can I expect to see near the castles?
Many castles in the Ross Inner region are set amidst beautiful natural landscapes. Enniskillen Castle is on the banks of the River Erne. Old Castle Archdale is situated on a forest clifftop within a large coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. Castle Coole is set within a 1,200-acre wooded estate with oak, ash, and beech trees.
Can I cycle near the castles in Ross Inner?
Cycling is a great way to explore the area. The 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail' passes through the region, offering routes like the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' and longer, more challenging options such as the 'Enniskillen Castle – Old Castle Archdale loop'. More cycling routes can be found in the Cycling around Ross Inner guide.
What is unique about <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/2666981" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Old Castle Archdale</a>?
Old Castle Archdale is a 17th-century castle ruin perched on a forest clifftop. It was destroyed by fire during the Williamite Wars and offers a poignant glimpse into a turbulent past. Its location within a large forest also makes it a scenic spot for exploration.
What is the significance of <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/785565" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Castle Coole</a>?
Castle Coole is a magnificent 18th-century neoclassical mansion, considered one of the finest in Ireland. It was built as a summer retreat for the Earls of Belmore and is set within a stunning 1,200-acre wooded estate. Visitors can explore the mansion and grounds to understand the opulent lifestyle of its former inhabitants.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Ross Inner?
Visitors appreciate the rich history and diverse architecture of the castles, from medieval strongholds to grand neoclassical estates. The picturesque settings, often alongside rivers or within forests, are also highly valued. The opportunity to learn about past conflicts and daily life, combined with outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, makes for a comprehensive experience. The komoot community has shared 10 photos and given 8 upvotes for these castles, highlighting their appeal.
Are there any castles that were never re-inhabited after destruction?
Yes, Tully Castle Ruins is a notable example. This fortified house and bawn were attacked and burned on Christmas Eve in 1641 by Rory Maguire, and its inhabitants massacred. It was never lived in again after this event, providing a stark historical experience.
What is the history of <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/3014390" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Enniskillen Castle</a>?
Enniskillen Castle is a 16th-century tower house with a long history, founded by the Maguire family. It played a role in Irish rebellions against English rule and endured sieges. After being decommissioned as an army barracks in the 1950s, it was restored and now serves as a heritage center and museum, open to the public.
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