Parke’s Castle, located on the scenic shores of Lough Gill in County Leitrim, is a beautifully restored 17th-century plantation castle managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW). Built on the site of a 16th-century O’Rourke tower house, it offers a fascinating blend of history, architecture, and stunning natural surroundings.
The castle, originally known as Newtown Castle, was a stronghold of Brian O’Rourke, Lord of West Breifne, until his execution for treason in London in 1591. After his lands were confiscated, English planter Robert Parke built the current fortified manor house around 1630–1635, incorporating stones from the demolished O’Rourke tower house. The castle prospered during the Cromwellian period but fell into disrepair after the tragic drowning of two of Parke’s children in Lough Gill in 1677. Restored in the 1970s and 1980s using traditional Irish oak and craftsmanship, it became a National Monument and opened to the public in 1990.
- Architectural Features: The castle features defensive elements like round flanker towers, a postern gate, a sally port, and a moat (historically filled with waste, now dry due to lower lake levels). The courtyard contains the foundations of the original O’Rourke tower house, uncovered in 1971, and a reconstructed 17th-century forge with a thatched roof, demonstrating tools like pickaxes and horseshoes. A 12th-century sweathouse, a medieval “spa” where heated rocks created a sauna-like environment, is another highlight. The banqueting hall, family room, and battlements offer insights into plantation-era life, with the spiral staircase designed for right-handed defense (contrary to claims of Parke’s left-handedness).
- Exhibits: A permanent exhibition in the courtyard displays 17th-century artifacts, including replica period costumes and furniture. Information boards and a short audio-visual presentation, “Stone by Stone,” detail the castle’s history and restoration, available in multiple languages, including German.
- Guided and Self-Guided Tours: Hourly guided tours, led by knowledgeable staff like Siobhan and Dara, bring the castle’s history to life with enthusiasm and local insights. Reviews praise the guides’ ability to engage diverse groups, including children, with tailored commentary. Self-guided tours are available with a printed guide for a more leisurely pace. The audio-visual film provides regional context, though it’s not specific to the castle. A visit typically takes 45–60 minutes.
- Scenic Setting: Located on a promontory overlooking Lough Gill, the castle offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding countryside, especially at sunset. The serene, unspoiled setting is ideal for photography and relaxation, with the nearby Rose of Innisfree Tour Boat offering lake tours (30–60 minutes, departing at 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM in high season) for a unique perspective.
- Family-Friendly Features: The castle is a hit with families, with guides adept at engaging young children (e.g., offering challenges to find items). The compact size suits short attention spans, and the open courtyard is safe for exploration. The nearby village of Dromahair, with its riverside walk to Creevelea Friary, adds to the family-friendly appeal.
- The ground floor, including the courtyard and forge, is accessible for visitors with disabilities, with toilets, a car park, and coach parking available. Some outdoor areas, like the battlements and upper floors, involve stairs and uneven surfaces, limiting access for those with mobility issues.
- Practical Details: Fivemile Bourne, Co. Leitrim, on the R286, 12 km east of Sligo town and 7 km northwest of Dromahair (Eircode: F91 DK81). It’s a 25-minute drive from Sligo and about 2 hours from Dublin. A Local Link bus (Route 563) from Sligo to Dromahair stops at the castle.
- Operating Hours: Open seasonally from March 28 to October 2, daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (last admission 5:15 PM). Free entry is offered on the first Wednesday of each month.
- Admission: €5 for adults, €3 for seniors, €2 for children/students, and €13 for families (two adults, two children). Guided tours are included in the price, making it a great value.
- Nearby Attractions: Close to Glencar Waterfall (13 km), Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery (18 km), Sligo Abbey (12 km), and Benbulben (15 km), the castle is part of a rich tourism circuit. Dining options include Montmartre (8.8 km), Vintage Lane Cafe (11.1 km), or the Riverbank Restaurant in Dromahair.
- Atmosphere: Reviews highlight the castle’s compact yet evocative nature, with superb restoration (e.g., Liscannor slate roofing and oak timbers) and a peaceful lakeside setting. The lack of crowds enhances its charm as a “hidden gem” for what Tourism Ireland marketing department calls the “culturally curious” and nature lovers.
- Sise and Expectations: Some visitors note the castle’s small scale compared to larger sites like Bunratty, but its detailed restoration and engaging tours compensate. The audio-visual film’s regional focus may disappoint those expecting castle-specific content.
- Weather Considerations: Outdoor areas like the battlements and sweathouse are exposed, so rain gear is advised. Indoor exhibits ensure a worthwhile visit in poor weather.
- Historical Context: The castle’s plantation-era origins, tied to English colonization and the displacement of the O’Rourke clan, may evoke complex emotions. Guides address this sensitively, balancing Irish and planter perspectives.
What’s New:
- The castle will maintain its seasonal schedule (March 28–October 2), with no announced changes to hours or admission. The OPW’s ongoing commitment to heritage sites suggests consistent maintenance and staffing, with job postings seasonal guides indicating robust tour offerings.
- As part of Leitrim Tourism and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, Parke’s Castle is being promoted alongside attractions like Glencar Waterfall and the Rose of Innisfree boat tour., enhanced marketing efforts may increase visitor numbers, leading to more frequent guided tours or updated interpretive materials to align with regional branding.
- Community and Educational Events: The castle’s success with diverse groups, such as playschool visits, suggests potential for new family-oriented or educational events, like themed workshops or children’s activities tied to the castle’s history (e.g., medieval crafts or storytelling about the O’Rourkes). Such initiatives would align with the OPW’s goal of engaging diverse audiences.
Visitor Expectations:
- Access and Crowds: The castle’s remote location and seasonal hours limit overcrowding, but summer visitors should book guided tours in advance to secure spots, especially with growing regional tourism.
A visit to Parke’s Castle promises a exploration of a 17th-century plantation castle, with meticulously restored features like the forge, sweathouse, and banqueting hall, set against the stunning backdrop of Lough Gill. Hourly guided tours, a small exhibition, and family-friendly elements make it a rewarding 1-hour stop, enhanced by the serene lakeside setting. For the latest details, visit www.heritageireland.ie
