Attractions and Places To See around Lenaghan - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Lenaghan include a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and unique monuments. The region, likely situated near County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, offers diverse points of interest for exploration. Visitors can discover ancient castles, significant historical ruins, and distinctive natural formations. The area provides opportunities to engage with both the historical past and the natural environment.
Best attractions and places to see around Lenaghan
- The most popular attractions is Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Castle Caldwell Ruins
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Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery
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Tully Castle Ruins
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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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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Built in the 17th century, Castle Caldwell was part of the Ulster Plantation, a province of Ireland colonised by British settles throughout King James I era. The castle had a number of inhabitants after that and fell into ruin towards the 1800s. Although access to the castle is now forbidden due to its dangerous state of repair, the surrounding park and forest can be explored freely. Keep your eyes peeled for the ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard.
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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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Built in the 17th century by Francis Blennerhasett of Norfolk, Castle Caldwell was once part of Ulster Plantation, a province of Ireland colonised by British settlers during the reign of King James I. The castle had various inhabitants over the centuries until it fell into ruin towards the end of the 1800s. Today, Castle Caldwell lies within Castle Caldwell Forest Park, a nature reserve on the banks of Lower Lough Erne. Although access to the castle is forbidden due to its ruinous state, you can visit the surrounding park for free. Look out for the ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard too.
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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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This fortified house and bawn are set on Tully Point and were built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve by Rory Maguire and the inhabitants massacred. It was not lived in again. A visitor’s centre, located in a restored farmhouse, houses an exhibition telling local stories relating to the castle. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tully-castle-p675521)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique ancient monuments can I visit around Lenaghan?
Lenaghan is home to the fascinating Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery. These two pre-Christian, Iron Age stone figures, standing about 70cm high, are located in the small, isolated Caldragh graveyard on Boa Island. They are unique for their Janus-faced carvings, representing a Celtic cernunnos-like god of vegetation and fertility.
Are there historical castles or ruins to explore near Lenaghan?
Yes, the area offers several historical castle ruins. You can wander the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle perched on a cliff within a thick forest. Another option is Castle Caldwell Ruins, also from the 17th century, where you can explore the surrounding park and forest, including a ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard. Additionally, Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house attacked and burned in 1641, offers a visitor's centre with local stories.
What natural parks and features can I discover around Lenaghan?
The region boasts several beautiful natural areas. Gortin Glen Forest Park is known for its scenic trails, lush woodlands, and a five-mile forest drive offering views of waterfalls and sika deer. You can also visit Barnes Gap, an area of exceptional natural beauty formed by a glacial overflow cutting through the southern Sperrin Mountains. For a unique experience, the Creggan Wood Walk takes you through a distinctive bogland environment with diverse plant life via a gravel path and raised boardwalk.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Lenaghan area?
Absolutely. Tully Castle Ruins is considered family-friendly and includes a visitor's centre. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, which served as a major WWII flying boat base, sometimes host exhibitions that can be engaging for families. Gortin Glen Forest Park, with its scenic drives, trails, and cafe, also provides a great day out for all ages.
What kind of hiking opportunities are available near Lenaghan?
Lenaghan offers a variety of hiking trails. For easy walks, consider the Cliffs of Magho loop or the Castle Archdale loop. If you're looking for more challenging routes, the Cliffs of Magho via Old Man's Head is a difficult 17.4 km hike, while the Blackslee Waterfall loop offers a moderate 9.2 km option.
Can I find mountain biking trails around Lenaghan?
Yes, there are several mountain biking trails in the vicinity. You can explore the Scarplands Cycle Trail, a moderate 37.7 km route. For a more challenging ride, consider the Tully Castle to Cliffs of Magho viewpoint and Ballintempo Forest loop, which spans over 66 km. There are also easier options like the Horse Hill, Castle Hill and Necarne Castle loop.
What cultural heritage sites are located near Lenaghan?
While Lenaghan itself is rich in natural and historical sites, the nearby County Monaghan offers several cultural heritage gems. These include the Patrick Kavanagh Centre in Inniskeen, the Carrickmacross Lace Gallery showcasing a 200-year-old craft, and the Carrickmacross Workhouse, which tells an emotive story of Irish history. You can find more information on these sites at Monaghan Tourism.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Lenaghan?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth and natural beauty of the area. The unique Janus Stones offer a glimpse into ancient history, while the various castle ruins like Old Castle Archdale allow for an immersive experience of past eras. The expansive forest parks and scenic natural formations also provide a tranquil escape and opportunities for exploration.
Are there any cafes or refreshment options near the attractions?
Yes, Gortin Glen Forest Park features a cafe at its center, making it a convenient stop for refreshments while exploring the park's trails and scenic drives.
Are there any easy walks suitable for all abilities near Lenaghan?
Yes, for those seeking easier walks, the Cliffs of Magho loop (4.5 km) and the Castle Archdale loop (4.2 km) are both rated as easy. Another accessible option is the Tully Castle Ruins loop from Heron Island, which is just over 2 km.
What is the best time of year to visit Lenaghan's attractions?
The natural attractions like Gortin Glen Forest Park and Creggan Wood Walk are particularly beautiful during spring and autumn when the foliage is vibrant. Historical sites like the castle ruins can be visited year-round, but warmer, drier months (late spring to early autumn) generally offer more comfortable conditions for outdoor exploration and hiking.
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