Attractions and Places To See around Drumnacross - Top 14
Best attractions and places to see around Drumnacross offer a mix of historical landmarks and natural features. The area is characterized by its ancient castles, historical sites, and diverse natural landscapes including forests and wetlands. Visitors can explore a rich past and varied outdoor environments within this region.
Best attractions and places to see around Drumnacross
- The most popular attractions is Old Castle Archdale, a forest and historical site situated on Castle Hill within a 520-hectare forest. Built in…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Tully Castle Ruins
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment
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Necarne Castle
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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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Drumskinny Stone Circle is one of five in the area. It dates back to 2000BC and is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions or astronomical observations. There are 39 stones that make up the circle which are all placed around a small cairn.
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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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Drumskinny Stone Circle is one of five stone circles located in the area. Although its exact purpose isn't known, it is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions, or astronomical observations. The circle is made up of 39 stones placed around a small round cairn. Entrance to the site is free.
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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 historical sites can I visit around Drumnacross?
Drumnacross is rich in history, featuring several notable sites. You can explore the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, built in the 1600s and set within a large forest. Another significant ruin is Necarne Castle, which served as a military hospital during WWII. Don't miss Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house with a visitor's center telling local stories, or the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, a former WWII RAF base that sometimes hosts exhibitions.
Are there any ancient monuments or archaeological sites in the area?
Yes, you can visit the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment. This site dates back to 2000 BC and is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions, or astronomical observations. It features 39 stones arranged around a small cairn.
What natural attractions are there near Drumnacross?
The Drumnaph Nature Reserve, located on the edge of the Sperrins, is a significant natural attraction. It boasts diverse habitats including ancient woodland, wetlands, bog, and meadows, with the Grillagh River flowing through it. It's a haven for wildlife and offers graded walking trails.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in Drumnacross?
Several attractions are suitable for families. Tully Castle Ruins and the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings are marked as family-friendly. The Drumnaph Nature Reserve also offers easy walking trails suitable for all ages, where you might spot rare breed cows and sheep.
What kind of walking trails are available in Drumnaph Nature Reserve?
Drumnaph Nature Reserve offers a variety of walking trails. These include the easy 1 km Ruachan Trail (approx. 20 minutes), the easy 1.5 km Loch Bran Trail (approx. 30 minutes), and the moderate 4 km Rath Trail (approx. 80 minutes). These trails allow visitors to explore the diverse habitats and enjoy picnics.
What outdoor activities can I do near Drumnacross attractions?
You can enjoy various outdoor activities. For hiking, explore routes like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. Cyclists can try the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' or routes around Castle Archdale. Find more options in the hiking guide, running guide, and cycling guide for Drumnacross.
Are there any easy walking trails around Drumnacross?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. Within Drumnaph Nature Reserve, the Ruachan Trail (1 km) and Loch Bran Trail (1.5 km) are easy options. Additionally, hiking routes like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' are rated as easy.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Drumnacross?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty. Many enjoy wandering the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale and imagining its past, or exploring the fortified Tully Castle Ruins with its local stories. The Drumnaph Nature Reserve is also highly regarded for its peaceful trails and diverse wildlife.
Can I find viewpoints or scenic spots in the Drumnacross area?
Yes, Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520-hectare forest, offering scenic views from its clifftop location. The Drumnaph Nature Reserve also provides picturesque settings with its ancient woodland and river landscapes.
Is there public transport available to reach attractions around Drumnacross?
While specific public transport routes to every attraction may vary, many sites are accessible by car, often with parking available. For detailed information on reaching individual sites, it's advisable to check local transport schedules or the specific attraction's website.
Are there any dog-friendly walks near Drumnacross?
Many of the outdoor areas and trails around Drumnacross are suitable for dogs, provided they are kept under control. The Drumnaph Nature Reserve's walking trails are generally dog-friendly. When visiting historical sites, it's best to check their specific policies regarding pets.
What is the best time of year to visit Drumnacross for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months generally offer the most favorable weather for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of Drumnacross. However, the Drumnaph Nature Reserve and forest trails can also be enjoyed during autumn for their seasonal colors, and some trails are suitable for winter walks, weather permitting.
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