Attractions and places to see around Carranboy offer a range of historical sites and natural landscapes in County Fermanagh. The region features ancient castles, priory ruins, and forest areas. Visitors can explore sites with historical significance, including structures dating back to the 17th century. The area provides opportunities to engage with local heritage and explore the Fermanagh countryside.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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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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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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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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The Carranboy area in County Fermanagh is rich in historical sites. You can visit the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle built on a clifftop that was burnt out in 1689. Another significant ruin is Necarne Castle, once known as Irvine Castle, which served as a military hospital during WWII. Don't miss Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house and bawn with a visitor's centre telling local stories, attacked and burned in 1641.
Yes, several attractions around Carranboy are suitable for families. Tully Castle Ruins offers a visitor's centre that can engage younger visitors with local stories. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, part of the wider Castle Archdale estate, are family-friendly and sometimes host exhibitions about their WWII history.
The area around Carranboy offers various walking and hiking opportunities. You can explore trails around Old Castle Archdale, which is set within a large forest. For more structured routes, consider the easy hikes available, such as the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Carranboy guide.
Absolutely! For beginners or those seeking a relaxed walk, there are several easy hiking trails. Options include 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island', 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle', and the 'Castle Archdale loop'. These trails are generally well-suited for an enjoyable outdoor experience. Discover more easy routes in the Easy hikes around Carranboy guide.
For runners, Carranboy provides a selection of trails. You can find routes like the 'Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick' or the 'Necarne Castle (Castle Irvine) – Necarne Castle loop from Irvinstown'. These trails vary in difficulty, offering options for different fitness levels. More running routes are detailed in the Running Trails around Carranboy guide.
Many outdoor areas and trails in County Fermanagh, including those around Carranboy, are dog-friendly. While specific rules may vary by site, generally, dogs are welcome on leads in forest parks and walking trails. It's always best to check for any specific signage at individual attractions, but the natural landscapes offer great opportunities for walks with your canine companion.
The Carranboy area is characterized by its Fermanagh countryside, featuring significant forest areas, particularly around Old Castle Archdale. The region is known for its green landscapes and the presence of historical sites nestled within natural settings, offering a blend of history and scenic beauty.
Yes, the area includes significant religious and ancient sites. You can visit Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones. This site features a graveyard with several interesting stones, including the noted 'Bishops stone' and a large slab with cup-shaped hollows, suggesting its reuse as an early Christian cross slab.
Visitors to Carranboy's attractions appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. They enjoy exploring the crumbling walls of ancient castles like Old Castle Archdale, imagining life hundreds of years ago. The historical significance of sites like Necarne Castle and Tully Castle Ruins, along with their scenic settings, are highly valued by the komoot community, who have shared numerous photos and upvotes.
Yes, parking is generally available at the main attractions. For instance, Necarne Castle offers free parking. When planning your visit, it's advisable to check specific location details, but most historical sites and trailheads in the area provide designated parking facilities.
The best time to visit Carranboy for outdoor activities is typically during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is generally milder and more conducive to exploring historical sites and enjoying walks or hikes in the Fermanagh countryside. Winter walks are also possible, but be prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions.
While the main attractions like the castles are well-known, exploring the extensive forest areas around Old Castle Archdale can lead to discovering quieter paths and scenic viewpoints. The various loop trails and easy hikes often take you through less-trafficked parts of the Fermanagh countryside, offering a chance to find your own hidden gems amidst the natural landscape.
While specific cafes might not be directly adjacent to every ruin, the nearby towns and villages such as Irvinestown and Lisnarick, which are close to attractions like Necarne Castle and the Castle Archdale area, offer options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation where you can find refreshments.


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