Attractions and places to see around Inisway feature a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. The region is characterized by ancient castles, significant historical ruins, and natural formations like caves and waterfalls. Visitors can explore sites that reflect centuries of history, from 17th-century fortifications to early Christian monuments. The area offers diverse points of interest for those interested in history and outdoor exploration.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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"continual slur on Irish caving" It's actually only a few hundred metres is accessible and it's total length is thought to be 2km. No where near the longest cave in Ireland. Consider a trip in only if well equipped with a good light and helmet. Alternatively/also consider visiting McKenzies back lounge just down the road. A much drier watering hole. ;)
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In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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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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Pollnagollum Cave (meaning Hole of the Dove) is the longest cave system in Ireland. The cave system is complex and fascinating and is fed by a tumbling waterfall that topples off a limestone cliff. Watch your stepping here as rocks can be unstable and slippery, and don't forget your camera for some awesome shots.
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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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Inisway is rich in history. You can explore the ancient ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle with a past tied to the Irish Rebellion of 1641. Another significant site is Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house also burned during the 1641 rebellion, which has an on-site visitor's centre. Don't miss Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, featuring ancient religious stones with unique carvings.
Absolutely! A prominent natural feature is Pollnagollum Cave and Waterfall, known for its impressive waterfall and complex cave system. While exploring Old Castle Archdale, you'll also find yourself within a vast 520-hectare forest, offering scenic views from its clifftop location.
The area around Inisway offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including options for road cycling and general cycling, with tours like the 'Boa Island and Pettigo loop' or the 'Carrick Lough loop'. For those who enjoy running, there are trails such as the 'Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Road Cycling Routes around Inisway, Running Trails around Inisway, and Cycling around Inisway guides.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Tully Castle Ruins is considered family-friendly and includes a visitor's centre that tells local stories. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, with their historical significance from WW2, can also be an engaging visit for families, sometimes hosting exhibitions.
The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings played a crucial role during World War II, serving as a major base for flying boats and housing up to 2,500 RAF personnel. These buildings were central to the wartime operations in the area, and exhibitions are sometimes held there to highlight this important historical period.
Yes, you can delve into early Christian history at Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones. The graveyard features several notable stones, including the 'Bishops stone' and a large slab with cup-shaped hollows, believed to have been reused as an early Christian cross slab, showcasing ancient religious practices and artistry.
Old Castle Archdale is unique for its historical depth and picturesque setting. Built in the 1600s, it's situated on a forest clifftop within a 520-hectare forest. Its history includes being captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed during the Williamite Wars, offering a tangible link to centuries of regional conflict and change.
While Pollnagollum Cave is fairly accessible, it is not wheelchair accessible. Visitors should be cautious as rocks can be unstable and slippery, and it's advisable to be well-equipped with a good light and helmet if planning to venture into the cave system.
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. The ancient castles and religious sites offer a deep dive into the region's past, while natural features like caves and waterfalls provide stunning landscapes for exploration. The opportunity to wander crumbling castle walls and imagine life centuries ago is a common highlight.
Yes, Tully Castle Ruins features a visitor's centre located in a restored farmhouse. This centre provides an exhibition that shares local stories and historical context related to the castle, enhancing the visitor experience.
Yes, Old Castle Archdale is situated on a forest clifftop, offering excellent viewpoints over the surrounding area. The combination of ancient ruins and natural elevation provides picturesque vistas.
Inisway's castles, such as Old Castle Archdale and Tully Castle Ruins, are deeply connected to the Irish Rebellion of 1641. Both castles were attacked and burned during this period, playing a significant role in the region's turbulent history. Old Castle Archdale also saw its final destruction during the Williamite Wars.


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