Top 6 Castles around Rossahilly
Best castles around Rossahilly are found within the broader County Fermanagh region, an area characterized by its rich history and natural landscapes. Situated near Lough Erne, the region offers a blend of historical sites and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore a variety of castles, from medieval strongholds to grand 18th-century estates. This area provides opportunities to delve into Northern Ireland's past while enjoying the surrounding natural environment.
Best castles around Rossahilly
- The most popular castles is Enniskillen Castle, a…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Castle Coole
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Necarne Castle
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Monea Castle Ruins
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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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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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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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Like many other castles in the area, Monea Castle was built during the Plantation in the 17th century, when settlers from Great Britain colonised lands in Ireland. The Scottish Reverend Malcolm Hamilton built the castle in 1616 in a distinctly Scottish style. The castle was attacked and occupied during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and was lived in by the family of colonel Gustav Hamilton until 1704. A few decades later, a fire destroyed much of the castle, leaving it ruined as it is today. The ruins are free to visit and open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
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Built in the 16th century, Enniskillen Castle has many stories to tell – from Irish rebellions against English rule to sieges and protection from the threat of French invasion. In the 1950s, the castle was decommissioned as an army barracks and opened as a heritage centre. Today, you can visit the museum to learn about the region's history. The castle is open from 9.30am to 5pm (Monday to Friday) and from 11am - 5pm on weekends.
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Castle Coole is a late 18th century neoclassical mansion in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. The house is situated on a 5 km² wooded estate. Unfortunately, I could not visit it, because it was already too late. The interior design and decor should be impressive.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of historical castles can I explore around Rossahilly?
The Rossahilly area, within County Fermanagh, offers a diverse range of castles. You can find 16th-century fortresses like Enniskillen Castle, 17th-century Plantation castles such as Monea Castle Ruins and Tully Castle, and grand 18th-century Neo-classical mansions like Castle Coole. This variety allows you to experience different architectural styles and historical periods.
Which castles offer insights into the Plantation era in County Fermanagh?
For insights into the Plantation era, you should visit Monea Castle Ruins and Tully Castle. Monea Castle, built by Malcolm Hamilton by 1618, is considered one of the best-preserved Plantation castles with strong Scottish influences. Tully Castle, built by Sir John Hume, also dates from the early 17th century and features a visitor's center detailing local stories from that period.
Are there any castles with museums or cultural exhibits near Rossahilly?
Yes, Enniskillen Castle is home to both the Fermanagh County Museum and the Inniskillings Museum. These museums offer a deep dive into Fermanagh's history, culture, and natural heritage, making it an ideal place to understand the region's past.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Rossahilly?
Many castles in the area are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle, Castle Coole, and Monea Castle Ruins are all listed as family-friendly. They offer historical exploration, open grounds for children to enjoy, and often educational exhibits.
Can I bring my dog to the castle grounds around Rossahilly?
While specific dog policies vary, many castle estates in the region offer extensive parklands suitable for walks. For example, Castle Coole has sprawling parklands ideal for walks, and Necarne Castle's estate offers pleasant walking opportunities within its parkland and woodland. It's always best to check individual castle websites for their specific dog-friendly policies before visiting.
What walking opportunities are available at the castles near Rossahilly?
Several castles offer excellent walking opportunities. Castle Coole features extensive parklands, including a lake walk around Lough Coole. The estate of Necarne Castle provides pleasant woodland and parkland walks. Tully Castle offers scenic grounds with views across Lough Erne, and Enniskillen Castle allows for scenic walks along the water's edge.
Are there hiking or cycling routes near the castles around Rossahilly?
Yes, the area around Rossahilly and its castles is well-suited for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore routes like 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' or 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail' or various loops starting from Enniskillen. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Rossahilly and Cycling around Rossahilly guides.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or natural beauty near these castles?
The castles are often set in beautiful natural surroundings. Castle Coole is within a sprawling wooded estate with a lake walk. Tully Castle offers scenic views across Lower Lough Erne and its islands. Belle Isle Castle, situated on a private estate across eight islands on Upper Lough Erne, provides stunning views and extensive gardens.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Rossahilly?
The best time to visit the castles around Rossahilly is generally during the spring (April-May) and summer (June-August) months. The weather is milder, and the longer daylight hours allow for more extensive exploration of both the castles and their surrounding parklands. Autumn (September-October) can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though the weather may be cooler.
How long should I plan for a visit to these castles?
The duration of your visit depends on the castle. For a comprehensive visit to Enniskillen Castle, including its museums, allow 2-3 hours. Exploring Castle Coole with a guided tour and a walk around its grounds could take 2-4 hours. For ruins like Monea Castle Ruins or Tully Castle, 1-2 hours might suffice, especially if you combine it with a walk in the surrounding area.
Are there facilities like parking or cafes near the castles?
Most major castles like Enniskillen Castle and Castle Coole offer dedicated parking facilities. While some smaller ruins might have limited amenities, larger sites often have visitor centers, and sometimes cafes or shops. The towns of Enniskillen and Irvinestown, close to many of these castles, offer a wider range of cafes, pubs, and accommodation options.
What are some unique architectural features of the castles in the Rossahilly area?
The castles in this region showcase distinct architectural styles. Enniskillen Castle features a unique Watergate with corbelled conical-roof turrets inspired by Scottish architecture. Castle Coole is a magnificent 18th-century Neo-classical mansion with an Ionic portico and Doric colonnaded wings. Monea Castle Ruins and Tully Castle exhibit strong Scottish influences typical of Plantation-era fortified houses, with features like corner turrets and bawn walls.
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