Who built Lough Oughter Castle?
Who built Lough Oughter Castle? – Lough Oughter Castle, also known as Tully Castle, is a large tower house located on an island in Lough Oughter in County Cavan, Ireland. It was built sometime between 1220 and 1280 by the Maguire clan who were the ruling family of Fermanagh and surrounding area at the time.
The castle was built as a defensive stronghold and was strategically located on an island in the lake to provide further protection. It is one of the few surviving examples of Norman architecture in Ireland and has been cited by historians for its architectural significance.
The castle passed through generations of Maguire descendants until 1653 when it fell into the hands of English settlers who altered the castle from its original design.
In the 19th century, the castle was restored by architect William Weir and is now maintained by Ireland’s Office of Public Works. It remains open to the public for visitors to explore the history and heritage of Lough Oughter Castle.
How to get to Lough Oughter Castle
Lough Oughter Castle is a fascinating medieval castle located in County Cavan, Ireland. It is situated on an island in the middle of Lough Oughter and can be accessed by taking a small boat from the nearby village of Dowra. The most convenient way to reach Dowra is by car, however bus services from Dublin and Belfast also serve the area. Once in Dowra, visitors can take a boat to reach the castle and explore its picturesque ruins.
The castle is surrounded by beautiful countryside that makes for a perfect day out for families or groups of friends looking to explore Irish history and culture. As well as being able to view the ruins from the water, visitors can disembark and explore the castle grounds. The castle is open to the public daily from 9 am – 5 pm and it’s recommended to plan a visit in advance as there are limited boats available for hire.
Visiting Lough Oughter Castle is a unique experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories of Ireland’s medieval past. Make sure to pack a camera and picnic lunch to make the most of your visit!
More About Lough Oughter
Lough Oughter is a beautiful lake located in County Cavan, Ireland. It is part of the River Erne system and is known for its scenic beauty and rich wildlife. The lake stretches from Belturbet to Ballyconnell near the border with Northern Ireland. There are several islands on the lake including Inishmore, Inishbofin, Inishluther and Orra. Lough Oughter is home to many species of birds, plants and animals including otters, kingfishers, woodcocks, pike, eels and various species of ducks. There are also several archaeological sites located on the lake such as a crannóg and a souterrain. Visitors to the lake can enjoy fishing, canoeing, sailing and other water activities as well as walking and cycling around the surrounding countryside. The lake also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year including traditional Irish music sessions, boat races and more. Lough Oughter is truly a place to explore, relax, and enjoy nature.
Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, Lough Oughter is the perfect destination to explore. From its breathtaking scenery to its rich wildlife, there is something for everyone at this beautiful Irish lake. So why wait? Start planning your next trip today!
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