Castles in Northern Ireland

Perched on cliff tops, nestled in glens, or hidden in forested corners, the castles of Northern Ireland are not just relics; they’re storytellers. With centuries of battles, sieges, love stories, and political intrigue woven into their stone walls, these fortresses span the breadth of human history. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun and educational day out, a couple in search of dramatic backdrops, or a solo explorer on a heritage trail, Northern Ireland’s castles are as varied as they are captivating.

Table of Contents

A Brief History of Northern Ireland’s Castles

Castles in Northern Ireland were primarily built during the Norman invasion in the late 12th century, as strongholds to control and defend territory. Over the centuries, these castles evolved from simple motte-and-bailey structures to formidable stone keeps and romantic manor houses. Many witnessed the upheaval of Gaelic chieftains, Tudor conquests, and the Plantation of Ulster, while others were caught in the crossfire of the Irish Confederate Wars and later, the Williamite War.

Today, these castles remain a visual timeline of the region’s complex past, some still standing proudly, others in hauntingly beautiful ruins.

Castle Highlights Across Northern Ireland

Here’s a taste of the most iconic and enchanting castles you can visit:

Dunluce Castle (County Antrim)

Perched on a basalt cliff overlooking the Atlantic, Dunluce is Northern Ireland’s most photographed ruin. Once the seat of the MacDonnell clan, it was abandoned in the 17th century. Accessible via a bridge, its dramatic setting is perfect for moody photos and Game of Thrones fans (it doubled as House Greyjoy).

Carrickfergus Castle (County Antrim)

One of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland. Built in 1177 by John de Courcy, this coastal Norman fortress has withstood sieges from Scots, English, and French forces. Great for families with interactive exhibits, guided tours, and scenic walks along the harbour.

Enniskillen Castle (County Fermanagh)

A riverside gem that now houses two museums: the Fermanagh County Museum and the Inniskillings Museum. Perfect for those seeking both history and a scenic picnic spot by Lough Erne.

Castle Ward (County Down)

A quirky 18th-century mansion with Gothic and Classical sides—reflecting its owners’ disagreements. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognise it as Winterfell. Offers bike hire, archery experiences, and vast parkland to explore.

Hillsborough Castle (County Down)

The official royal residence in Northern Ireland, this elegant Georgian mansion isn’t a military castle, but it offers richly decorated rooms, political significance, and stunning gardens. Great for culture lovers.

Shanes Castle (County Antrim)

A romantic ruin with Lough Neagh views and ghost stories aplenty. Privately owned but open during events. A favourite for photographers and folklore enthusiasts.

Narrow Water Castle (County Down)

A classic tower house near the scenic town of Warrenpoint. Built in the 16th century and carefully restored, it showcases the transition from medieval defence to more domestic elegance.

Harry Avery’s Castle (County Tyrone)

A rare example of a Gaelic stone castle, named after Henry Aimhreidh O’Neill. Though in ruin, its twin towers and elevated position offer atmospheric views.

Kinbane Castle (County Antrim)

A hidden gem perched on a headland near Ballycastle. Its dramatic cliffside location and secluded nature make it a rewarding stop for adventurous travellers and photographers.

Dundrum Castle (County Down)

Overlooking Dundrum Bay, this 13th-century Norman castle offers sweeping coastal views and a peaceful forest park. Ideal for a family picnic or quiet wander.

Killyleagh Castle (County Down)

Claimed to be the oldest inhabited castle in Ireland, this fairytale-like building with conical towers is privately owned but viewable from the outside. Occasionally opens for events.

Monea Castle (County Fermanagh)

One of the best-preserved Plantation castles in Northern Ireland, surrounded by countryside and a short drive from Enniskillen. A quiet but atmospheric site.

Glenarm Castle (County Antrim)

A working estate and one of the oldest in Northern Ireland. Famous for its beautifully maintained walled garden and summer events.

Tully Castle (County Fermanagh)

Overlooking Lough Erne, this 17th-century castle was tragically burned during the 1641 Rebellion. The ruins are surrounded by a peaceful walking trail and visitor centre.

Crom Castle (County Fermanagh)

A stunning lakeside estate with walking trails, historic architecture, and nature galore. Offers holiday accommodation for those wanting to immerse themselves in the landscape.

Bright Castle and Inch Abbey (County Down)

These smaller sites are ideal for quiet exploration and local picnics. Inch Abbey’s ruined Cistercian monastery also featured in Game of Thrones.

How to Explore Them: Travel Tips and Advice

Getting Around

By Car: Essential for visiting rural or remote castles. Roads are well-maintained, and signage is generally clear.
Public Transport: Trains and buses link major towns like Belfast, Derry~Londonderry, and Enniskillen, but castles like Dunluce or Shane’s are best accessed by car or tour.
Guided Tours: Consider themed tours for Game of Thrones, history, or ghost-hunting. Handy for solo travellers or those without a car.

Accessibility & Family Friendliness

Many castles have uneven terrain and limited wheelchair access, especially ruins. However, Carrickfergus and Hillsborough offer good accessibility.
Facilities like toilets, cafés, and playgrounds vary; check in advance. Some sites offer kids’ trails or dress-up activities.

Best Times to Visit

Spring (April–May): Blossoming gardens and mild weather.
Summer (June–August): Peak visitor season. Great for outdoor events but arrive early to avoid crowds.
Autumn (September–October): Quiet with stunning foliage. Ideal for photographers.
Winter (November–March): Atmospheric but some castles close or reduce hours.

Suggested Itineraries

1-Day Coastal Highlights (Car Recommended)

Start in Belfast
Carrickfergus Castle (30 mins): Morning tour and harbour walk
Dunluce Castle (1.5 hrs): Midday cliffside exploration
Kinbane Castle (20 mins): Short hike and photo session
Bushmills/Portrush: Late lunch and visit the Giant’s Causeway
Return to Belfast or stay overnight along the coast

3-Day Castle & Countryside Loop

Day 1: Belfast to County Down

Hillsborough Castle tour
Castle Ward archery and cycle trails
Killyleagh Castle exterior and Strangford Lough views
Stay in Strangford or Downpatrick

Day 2: Mourne Mountains & South Down

Explore Tollymore Forest Park (near Castle Ward)
Visit Dundrum Castle and nearby beaches
Inch Abbey and Bright Castle walkabout
Stay in Warrenpoint or Newry

Day 3: Fermanagh Lakes Loop

Monea Castle and Lough Navar viewpoint
Tully Castle and Crom Estate walking trails
Enniskillen Castle visit and riverside dinner
Return to Belfast or stay overnight in Enniskillen

Where to Eat & Stay

Family-Friendly Picks

Sleepy Hollow, Newtownabbey, Near Belfast and Carrickfergus, offers kid-friendly menus.
Causeway Hotel, Bushmills: Family rooms, near Dunluce and the Causeway.

Cosy for Couples

The Cuan, Strangford: Near Castle Ward, perfect for a romantic getaway.
Bishop’s Gate Hotel, Derry: Elegant, central, ideal for exploring the Walled City and nearby castles.

Budget & Solo Traveller Options

YHA Bushmills: Hostel vibes with friendly staff.
Guesthouses in Enniskillen or Armagh: Affordable and central.

Seasonal Events & Special Experiences

Spring/Summer: Reenactments at Carrickfergus and Castle Ward; outdoor theatre at Hillsborough; Glenarm Castle Garden Show.
Autumn: Halloween ghost tours at Dunluce and Shane’s Castle.
Winter: Festive light trails at Hillsborough Castle; Crom Estate Christmas markets.
Game of Thrones Locations: Castle Ward, Inch Abbey, and Shane’s Castle offer themed events year-round.

Broader UK Travel Tie-Ins

Exploring castles in Northern Ireland opens doors to similar adventures across the UK. Like the windswept ruins of Tintagel in Cornwall or Caernarfon in Wales, NI’s castles form a crucial part of the UK’s heritage story. Heritage tourism is booming, and castle hopping, whether by road trip, rail pass, or themed tour, is a great way to experience culture, nature, and history in one go.

Why not combine your NI journey with a visit to Scotland’s Eilean Donan, England’s Bamburgh Castle, or Wales’ Pembroke Castle? The possibilities are endless.

Your Next Step: Explore the Interactive Castle Map

Use our interactive map below to browse castles by region, discover hidden gems, and plan your custom route. Click on each castle icon to reveal photos, visiting info, and directions.

Final Thoughts

Northern Ireland’s castles are more than just bricks and battlements; they’re time machines, each with a unique tale to tell. Whether you’re watching the sunset at Dunluce, hearing echoes of royal debates in Hillsborough, or roaming ruins that whisper legends, your journey into the past begins here.

So grab your map, charge your camera, and step into the stories of Northern Ireland’s unforgettable castles.