Attractions and Places To See around Roosky - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Roosky include historical sites, natural features, and cultural landmarks. This village, situated on the River Shannon, offers opportunities for outdoor pursuits and insights into Irish heritage. The area provides a blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty, making it a destination for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Roosky
- The most popular attractions is Old Castle Archdale, a historical castle situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare forest. Built in 1615, it was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed by fire in 1689.
- Another must-see spot is Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house and bawn set on Tully Point. It was attacked and burned in 1641 and not lived in again.
- Visitors also love Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, a historical site featuring several ancient stones, including the notable Bishops stone and a bullaun stone. These stones offer a glimpse into early Irish writing and religious practices.
- Roosky is known for its historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural points of interest. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, enjoy the River Shannon, and discover local heritage.
- The attractions around Roosky are appreciated by the komoot community, with 13 photos and 12 upvotes contributing to their popularity.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
Highlight • Forest
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Tully Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
A visitor’s centre, located in a restored farmhouse, houses an exhibition telling local stories relating to the castle.
(discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tully-castle-p675521)
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Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones
Highlight • Monument
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.
megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
Highlight • Monument
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Pollnagollum Cave and Waterfall
Highlight • Cave
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Tips from the Community
"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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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Roosky?
Roosky and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle with a dramatic past, or the Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house burned in 1641. Further historical insights can be found at Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, featuring ancient Ogham and bullaun stones. Within the village, the historic Roosky Bridge connects two counties and has played a role in significant Irish events.
Are there opportunities for outdoor activities and nature exploration in Roosky?
Absolutely. The River Shannon is central to Roosky, offering excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and scenic walks along its banks. You can also explore Lough Bofin, a lough with historical significance. The wider Shannon region, including Lough Ree, Lough Derg, and Lough Erne, provides stunning scenery and further exploration for nature enthusiasts.
What kind of walking and hiking trails are available near Roosky?
The area around Roosky features peaceful walking trails through boggy areas, forests, and along lakeside shores. A short and easy 1.4 km trail traces the River Shannon at the Roosky Lock. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Castle Archdale loop' or the 'Blackslee Waterfall loop', which are part of the hiking guide for Roosky.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities in the Roosky area?
Yes, Roosky offers several family-friendly options. The Tully Castle Ruins are considered family-friendly, and a visitor's centre there tells local stories. Nearby, the Shannon River Adventure Centre provides various activities, and the Hayden Equestrian Centre offers horseback trekking. Lough Key Forest & Activity Park, though slightly further afield, is another excellent choice for families.
Where can I experience local culture and traditional Irish village life in Roosky?
To experience local culture, visit one of Roosky's lively pubs such as The Weir Lodge, Reynolds, The Rooskey Inn, or Cox's. Tegi's Tea Room offers a welcoming stop for refreshments. If your visit aligns, the annual Rooskey Heritage Festival, usually held in July, celebrates local heritage with live music, displays, and watersport demonstrations.
What are some unique historical landmarks beyond the main attractions?
Beyond the more prominent sites, you can discover Cloonmorris Church and its 5th-century Ogham Stone, offering a glimpse into ancient Irish writing. Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, built in 1844, is a significant religious site. The Old Church of Ireland Graveyard is being transformed into a memorial garden, and the Old Cloudland Dancehall stands as a relic of the showband era.
Can I go cycling near Roosky's attractions?
Cycling is a popular activity around Roosky. You can find various routes, including the 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop' or the 'The Big Tree – Carrickreagh Forest loop'. For more cycling options and detailed routes, refer to the cycling guide for Roosky.
What is the best time of year to visit Roosky for outdoor activities?
The summer months are particularly vibrant in Roosky, with the harbor and marina bustling with pleasure cruisers. This period is ideal for boating, fishing, and enjoying the walking trails. The Rooskey Heritage Festival also takes place in July, adding to the summer appeal. However, the peaceful walking trails can be enjoyed in spring and autumn for a quieter experience.
Are there any hidden natural gems or scenic viewpoints to discover?
While not explicitly hidden, the River Shannon itself offers numerous scenic viewpoints, especially around the Roosky Lock. For a unique natural feature, Pollnagollum Cave and Waterfall provides a dramatic landscape, though caution is advised due to slippery conditions. Exploring the shores of Lough Bofin also offers tranquil natural beauty.
What are some notable nearby attractions that are slightly further afield?
If you're willing to venture a bit further, you can visit Strokestown Park House & Famine Museum for a significant historical and cultural experience. Lough Key Forest & Activity Park offers a wide range of activities and natural beauty, while Boyle Abbey is an impressive 12th-century Cistercian Monastery. The Arigna Mining Experience provides insight into Ireland's mining heritage.
What kind of running trails are available around Roosky?
Roosky offers several running trails for different fitness levels. You can find routes like the 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Castle Archdale Marina loop' or the 'Blackslee Waterfall loop'. For a comprehensive list of running options, check out the running trails guide for Roosky.
Most popular attractions around Roosky
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