Attractions and Places To See around Knockroe Archdall - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see around Knockroe Archdall include historical castles and ancient religious sites set within natural landscapes. This region offers a glimpse into centuries of history, from 17th-century fortifications to early Christian stones. Visitors can explore ruins nestled in forests and discover sites with significant archaeological interest. The area provides opportunities to engage with local heritage and natural surroundings.
Best attractions and places to see around Knockroe Archdall
- The most popular attractions is Old Castle Archdale, a forest and historical site that sits on a forest clifftop. Built in 1615, the castle was destroyed by fire and abandoned in 1689 after the Williamite Wars.
- Another must-see spot is Necarne Castle, a historical castle. This ruin was once known as Irvine Castle and served as a military hospital during WWII.
- Visitors also love Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house and bawn built for Sir John Hume. The castle was attacked and burned in 1641 and was not inhabited again.
- Knockroe Archdall is known for its historical castles, ancient religious sites, and forest exploration. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ruined fortifications to significant early Christian monuments.
- The attractions around Knockroe Archdall are appreciated by the komoot community, with 12 upvotes and 13 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: August 17, 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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Necarne Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
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Tips from the Community
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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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Castle Archdale?
The area around Castle Archdale is rich in history. You can visit the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, built in 1615 and abandoned after being burned in 1689. Another significant ruin is Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house attacked and burned in 1641. Don't miss Necarne Castle, which served as a military hospital during WWII. The Castle Archdale Country Park also features an exhibition detailing the site's history, including its role in World War II.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Castle Archdale area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Tully Castle Ruins is noted as family-friendly, offering a glimpse into history with a visitor's centre. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings within the Country Park sometimes host exhibitions that can be engaging for all ages. The wider Castle Archdale Country Park provides ample space for outdoor activities and exploration.
What outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, are available near Castle Archdale?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore easy trails like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' or 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the easy hikes, running trails, and cycling guides for the region.
Can I find easy walking trails around Castle Archdale?
Absolutely. There are several easy walking trails, particularly within Castle Archdale Country Park and Necarne Woods. Popular easy routes include the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' (4.6 km), 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' (5.2 km), and the 'Castle Archdale loop' (4.3 km). These trails offer scenic views and are suitable for a relaxed stroll. For more options, refer to the easy hikes guide.
What is the significance of Castle Archdale during World War II?
Castle Archdale played a crucial role during World War II as a major RAF base. It housed up to 2,500 service members and was a vital station for Catalina and Sunderland flying boats. These aircraft were instrumental in protecting Atlantic shipping from German U-boats. The RAF Museum within Castle Archdale Country Park commemorates this history, and the marina now occupies the site of the former flying boat base.
Are there any ancient religious sites or unique stones to see?
Yes, the area features significant ancient religious sites. The Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones in the graveyard contain several interesting artifacts, including the 'Bishop's Stone' and a large slab with cup-shaped hollows, believed to be a reused early Christian cross slab. Additionally, White Island, accessible by boat from the marina, features 9th-century Celtic carved figures.
Where can I find information about the natural environment and wildlife in Castle Archdale Country Park?
Castle Archdale Country Park offers an exhibition that details the area's flora, fauna, and geology. This is an excellent resource for learning about the local natural environment and the wildlife you might encounter during your visit. The park's location on the eastern shore of Lough Erne also provides opportunities to observe various bird species and aquatic life.
Is there parking available at the main attractions?
Yes, for attractions like Necarne Castle, free parking is available. Castle Archdale Country Park also provides parking facilities for visitors exploring its various features and historical sites.
What do visitors enjoy most about the historical sites in this region?
Visitors particularly enjoy the immersive historical experience. For instance, at Old Castle Archdale, people appreciate wandering the crumbling walls and imagining life centuries ago, especially given its dramatic history of capture and destruction. The detailed stories and exhibitions at sites like Tully Castle Ruins and the RAF Museum in Castle Archdale Country Park also provide a deep connection to the past.
Are there any running trails suitable for different skill levels?
Yes, the area caters to various running abilities. You can find moderate trails like 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Castle Archdale Marina loop from Lisnarrick' (6.9 km) or 'Necarne Castle (Castle Irvine) – Necarne Castle loop from Irvinestown' (11.8 km). For a more challenging run, consider the 'Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick' (16.1 km). Explore more options in the running trails guide.
Can I visit White Island from Castle Archdale?
Yes, White Island is accessible by boat from the marina within Castle Archdale Country Park. This island is home to unique 9th-century Celtic carved figures, offering a fascinating cultural and historical excursion.
What kind of cycling routes are available for touring bicycles?
The region offers diverse cycling routes. The 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' is an easy 18.6 km route. For moderate challenges, you can try 'Old Castle Archdale – Castle Archdale Marina loop from Kesh' (19.8 km) or 'Boa Island Road loop from Kesh' (30.6 km). These routes allow you to explore the scenic landscapes by bike. More details can be found in the cycling guide.
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