10 Best Castles In Northern Ireland To Visit

There are over 40 castles in Northern Ireland, and each one has a lot to tell about the area’s 2,000-year-old history. Set against the dramatic landscapes of a formerly called Ulster, these castles are among the must-visit sites in Northern Ireland. From Disney-like castles to ruins to those that appeared on TV and movies, each Northern Ireland castle has a unique character. 

Here’s a quick guide of some of the best castles in Northern Ireland for a glimpse of this beautiful country’s colorful history. 

10 Best Castles In Northern Ireland To Visit

1. Belfast Castle, Northern Ireland

It’s difficult to miss the pretty castle built on the slopes of a hill when in the Northern Ireland capital. When in a car or bus along the M2, you can see this fairytale castle as you cruise through Belfast. Originally built in the 12th century, the Scottish Baronial structure that we see today was from a reconstruction done in 1870. 

Located in Cavehill Country Park, Belfast Castle provides unobstructed stunning views of the city as well as the Belfast Lough.

Now a popular events venue, the castle houses two restaurants and is open to the public. When visiting, don’t miss a stroll around the Cat Garden and have fun spotting the ‘hidden cats’ in shrubs, sculptures, and even on tiled floors. 

2. Castlewellan Castle

Built-in 1856 and overlooking a lake. Castlewellan is another must-see Scottish Baronial structure. It is on the edge of the Mourne Mountains and offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Northern Ireland.

The castle is set in lush surroundings that have a 12-kilometer trail network where hikers can enjoy views of the surrounding countryside. 

Today, Castlewellan Castle is known as a Christian conference center and retreat house. It is not always open to the public. Visitors can still admire it from the hiking trails, which also provide a view of the Mourne Mountains. 

3. Dunluce Castle, Country Antrim

 

The dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle date back to 1500 and were erected by the MacQuillan family. It was eventually taken over by the MacDonnell Clan who still owns it today.

Located in the town of Bushmills, in stunning, County Antrim, the medieval castle is accessed via a bridge. This bridge connects the mainland to the coastal outcrop where the castle ruins are located. 

Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, the iconic Dunluce Castle is one of the most photographed castles in Northern Ireland. There are no rooms to visit or exhibits to look at here.

The ruins themselves and the glass-encased artifacts built into the remaining walls are the main attractions, along with the breathtaking views surrounding the area. 

4. Dunseverick Castle, Northern Ireland

Dunseverick Castle is in one of the most incredible locations in Northern Ireland. It is another castle built on the slopes of a cliff along the Causeway Coastal Route.

The original structures of Dunseverick date as far back as the Viking era. There is even a legend that the castle was visited by Ireland’s Patron Saint, Patrick.  

Now in ruins, the Dunseverick Castle area is known as one of Ireland’s best cliff path walks. The trail starts at  Dunseverick Harbour, where you can walk along the shore and pass the castle ruins. The path continues to Hamilton’s s seat, while  Benbane Head; ends in the northernmost part of Northern Ireland’s mainland. 

5. Kilwaughter Castle, Country Antrim

Still, in CountyAntrim, Kilwaughter Castle was a castle fortress that served the area during centuries of battle and conflict. It was originally a four-story tower house with bartizan turrets back in the 1600s.

By 1806 however, the castle no longer needed its defense features. Renovation and extension took place, which turned the castle into the English mansion that we see today. 

This remodeling was done by John Nash, who also worked on Regent Street in London as well as Buckingham Palace. The castle is now mostly in ruins, with just its outer walls remaining. 

6. Enniskillen Castle, County Fermanagh

Situated in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland, Enniskillen Castle was built in the 16th century. However, there was also an old fortress built on its site in the early 15th century by Hugh Maguire but was destroyed by the number of battles and sieges that took place over the years. 

This well-preserved Castle by the River Erne is now an official heritage site. It houses the Fermanagh County Museum,  the Regimental Museum of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers, and the 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards.

7. Gosford Castle, Northern Ireland

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Gosford Castle is now one of the most popular castles in Northern Ireland, thanks to its prominent appearance in the HBO series, “Game of Thrones“.

In the series, the centuries-old castle was the house of Tully, where many dark events took place. situated in the vast Forest Park, this is also among the biggest castles on the island of Ireland. 

Designed in the Norman Revival style by London architect Thomas Hopper, Gosford Castle is on 11-hectare grounds with four walking trails that visitors can explore. Apart from its appearance in ” Game of Thrones”, much of the castle has been converted to private residences. 

8. Glenarm Castle, County Antrim

Glenarm dates back to the 13th century when it was built by Randal, 1st Earl of Antrim. It is located in one of the oldest estates in Northern Ireland and is now owned by the McDonnells. 

The Palladian-style Glenarm Castle is one of the most visited in Northern Ireland, and the estate offers plenty of activities for its visitors.

A must experience is a stroll around the gorgeous Walled Garden, a bit of a leg workout in the Woodland Walks, and relaxing with a cup of tea and treats in the Tea Room. 

9. Monea Castle, County Fermanagh

The 509-year old Monea Castle was originally built by English invaders to protect themselves from the furious locals in County Fermanagh

Known as one of the best-preserved plantation structures in the area, the castle follows the traditional castle and bawn style. It has a walled enclosure, corner towers, and tall attics. Recognized as a State Care Historic Monument, the castle and its surrounding area is a popular site for walks and picnics. 

10. Tully Castle, Northern Ireland

 

A beautiful Northern Ireland castle with a sordid past, Tully Castle remains to be an important historic site. It has seen some of the most horrid events throughout its 500-year old history. 

Today, Tully Castle is a popular place to visit during European Heritage Open Days. A must-see is a garden that was  a7th Century replica, where visitors can have a feel of the era.

The farmhouse in the area houses a visitor’s center where there is an exhibition of fascinating local stories about the castle.

 

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