Top 5 Castles around Lisbane
Best castles around Lisbane serve as gateways to historically significant sites within Northern Ireland. The area, particularly around Strangford Lough, features several tower houses located on islands. These sites offer insights into the region's past and scenic landscapes. Lisbane provides access to these historical landmarks, set amidst natural beauty.
Best castles around Lisbane
- The most popular castles is Sketrick Castle, a castle and historical site situated on Sketrick Island near Whiterock. This large tower house, built in the mid…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Sketrick Castle
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Castle Ward Tower (Winterfell Filming Location)
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Audley's Castle
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Mahee Castle
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Castle Ward
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Wikipedia (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%27s_Castle https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Audley%E2%80%99s_Castle Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Audley's Castle, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/audleys-castle-p707501 Official tourism website for Northern Ireland (Visit Game of Thrones - Filming Locations, 2022-10-08): https://discovernorthernireland.com/blog/read/2020/06/visit-game-of-thrones-filming-locations-b147 “… Within the Castle Ward demesne, you can make your way over to Audley's Field where Robb Stark meets Talisa after the battle at Oxcross. …“ #GoT #BattleOfOxcross #WarOfTheFiveKings
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National Trust (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_SVBg9R8U Wikipedia (Castle Ward, 2023-12-24): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castle_Ward “… The most interesting aspect of Castle Ward is that of its dual architecture, representing the differing tastes of Lord Bangor and his wife, Lady Ann Bligh. While the entrance side of the building is done in a classical Palladian style with columns supporting a triangular pediment, the opposite side is Georgian Gothic with pointed windows, battlements and finials. …”
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Great place for a run along the coastline.
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Best known for its role as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property located in Strangford. With its distinctive blend of classical and gothic styles, the castle and its estate grace the picturesque shores of Strangford Lough. Tours of the castle and estate are available year-round. For more information, visit: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/castle-ward
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Sketrick Castkle is a historic landmark situated on Sketrick Island near Whiterock. The castle dates back to the 12th century and the grounds are free to explore.
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Best known for its place as "Winterfell" in Game of Thrones, Castle Ward is an 18th-century National Trust property in Strangford. With two unique styles of classical and gothic, the castle & its estate is located in a beautiful location near the shore of Strangford Lough. Tours are available year round of the castle and estate.
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This tower-house, said to have been built in 1570 by an English soldier, Captain Browne, is badly ruined but is still of considerable interest. Rectangular and fairly small in ground plan, it was entered by a door in the north-west wall which has a draw bar socket and a murder-hole. To the left of the door was a stair to the next floor. There are two ground floor rooms, the larger with a semi-circular vault built on plank centring and the smaller with a pointed vault built on paired wicker mats. The smaller room, once thought to be a secure boat bay, may be just a storeroom (compare nearby Sketrick). There were two storeys above, but the upper parts are ruined. Part of the bawn wall survives to the south-west, cut into the hill.
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This large tower house was built in the mid 15th century and was actively involved in warfare during the 16th century. It would have originally been four storeys high with a boat bay and subterranean passage. There were four chambers at ground level, the largest had a vault built on wicker centring and two ovens. The small unlighted room could have been a lock up or treasury. The tower-house was relatively complete until half of it collapsed in a storm in 1896. Part of the bawn wall survives to the north and east of the castle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of historical sites are the castles around Lisbane?
The castles around Lisbane are primarily tower houses, many of which are ruins, offering a glimpse into Northern Ireland's rich past. For example, Sketrick Castle and Mahee Castle are both historic tower houses located on islands within Strangford Lough, dating back to the 12th and 16th centuries respectively.
Are there any castles near Lisbane known for their connection to popular culture?
Yes, Castle Ward Tower is famously known as a filming location for 'Winterfell' in Game of Thrones. Audley's Castle, also within the Castle Ward estate, was used as a filming location for the series as well.
What natural features can I expect to see when visiting castles near Lisbane?
Many castles in the area, such as Sketrick Castle and Mahee Castle, are situated on islands within Strangford Lough, offering stunning coastal views and opportunities to observe local wildlife like seals and otters. Castle Ward also provides scenic views of the lough.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit around Lisbane?
Yes, several castles are considered family-friendly. Sketrick Castle, Castle Ward Tower, and Castle Ward are all tagged as family-friendly. Castle Ward, in particular, offers trail walks and various activities suitable for families.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Lisbane?
The best time to visit is generally during the milder months, from spring to autumn, when the weather is more conducive for exploring ruins and enjoying the scenic outdoor settings. However, the castles are accessible year-round, and a visit in winter can offer a quieter, atmospheric experience.
Are there any accessible castles for visitors with mobility challenges near Lisbane?
Yes, Castle Ward is noted as being wheelchair accessible, offering facilities and trail walks that can accommodate visitors with mobility challenges.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The area around Lisbane offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes like the Castle Ward Farm Trail or the Sketrick Island loop near Sketrick Castle. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Lisbane or the general hiking trails around Lisbane.
Are there specific hiking trails that include castle visits?
Yes, you can combine hiking with castle visits. For instance, the 'Sketrick Island loop' includes Sketrick Castle. There are also trails within the Castle Ward estate, such as the Castle Ward Farm Trail, which offer scenic walks. You can find more details in the easy hikes around Lisbane guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles around Lisbane?
Visitors frequently appreciate the historical significance and the stunning natural settings of these castles. Many enjoy the picturesque coastal views, the peaceful atmosphere, and the opportunity to explore ancient ruins. The connection to 'Game of Thrones' at Castle Ward Tower is also a major draw.
Are there any hidden gem castles in the Lisbane region?
While not entirely 'hidden,' Mahee Castle, though ruined, offers a tranquil and historically rich experience, especially when combined with a visit to the nearby Nendrum Monastic site. Its island setting provides breathtaking views away from more crowded spots.
Where can I find parking for castles like Sketrick Castle or Mahee Castle?
Parking is generally available near these sites. For Sketrick Castle, you can find parking near the causeway to Sketrick Island. For Mahee Castle, parking is typically available on Mahee Island, often near the Nendrum Monastic site which is close by.
Are dogs allowed at the castles around Lisbane?
Many outdoor areas around the castles, especially those with walking trails, are dog-friendly. For example, the trails at Castle Ward are generally welcoming to dogs. It's always best to keep dogs on a lead and check specific site regulations before visiting.
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