McDermott’s Castle: Everything You Need to Know
Majestic, historic, and lakeside – these three words truly capture the charm of McDermott’s Castle. It feels like stepping into a magical story straight out of ancient Ireland.
As you admire the ruins of this old castle, the soft, cool breeze from Lough Key sweeps over you, calming your mind and making the moment unforgettable.
This incredible castle proudly stands on a tiny island surrounded by the peaceful waters of Lough Key in County Roscommon, Ireland.
Lough Key is home to more than thirty wooded islands, making it the perfect spot for adventure. Exploring the castle ruins here feels like uncovering a piece of history while surrounded by natural beauty.
Let’s dive deeper into this amazing landmark and explore the stories it has to tell.
A Journey Through Time: The History of McDermott’s Castle
McDermott’s Castle is so old it feels like stepping back in time! The first historical mention of this castle dates all the way back to 1184, during an era when Ireland was divided into many small kingdoms.
The castle was built by the McDermott clan, who ruled the area for over five centuries. Can you imagine that kind of legacy? Since the island is small—only about 0.57 acres—the family also had another residence on the mainland near Moylurg Tower.
Sadly, during World War II, a lightning strike caused a fire that burned down much of the castle.
McDermott’s Castle was not just a home but also a fort. It played a critical role in battles between rival clans and during English invasions. Despite its strategic location, the castle couldn’t escape ruin.
By the 17th century, the land fell into English hands during the time of Cromwell. In the 18th century, the castle became a place of leisure for the royal family. Later, in the 19th century, Welsh architect John Nash acquired the island, leaving his mark on its design. Finally, in the 20th century, the castle returned to Irish ownership.
Each stone of McDermott’s Castle holds a piece of history, and walking around it feels like traveling through centuries of stories.
Legends and Lore: The Tragic Tale of Úna Bhán
McDermott’s Castle isn’t just about history—it’s also wrapped in a tale of love and heartbreak. The story of Úna Bhán is one of Ireland’s most tragic legends.
Úna, the beautiful daughter of McDermott, fell deeply in love with Tomás Láidir, a nobleman from a rival clan. But their love faced a huge obstacle—her father disapproved, believing Tomás wasn’t worthy of his daughter.
Because of this, Úna and Tomás had to keep their love a secret. Every night, Tomás would swim across Lough Key to meet her at the castle. But fate took a cruel turn. During one of these crossings, tragedy struck, and Tomás drowned in the lake’s cold waters.
Heartbroken by the loss of her love, Úna also passed away, overcome with grief.
Legend says their spirits still wander the ruins of McDermott’s Castle, their love and sorrow echoing through time, forever tied to this enchanting place. Some visitors even claim to feel a presence—a reminder of a love story that refuses to fade.
Explore Further Sights: Lough Key Forest Park
If you’re visiting McDermott’s Castle, don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Lough Key Forest Park. Spanning a breathtaking 800 hectares, this park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and adventure.
Located about 40 km north of Roscommon town and just 3 km east of Boyle, it’s often called one of the most beautiful parks in Ireland.
The park offers so many unique spots to discover. You can climb the observation tower for stunning views, sit on the whimsical wishing chair, or wander through the underground tunnels. The Trinity Bridge and Bog Garden are also must-visit places, each adding a little magic to your journey.
Lough Key Forest Park is the perfect complement to your trip to McDermott’s Castle, offering a mix of history, nature, and fun that’s hard to resist.
Bonus Information About McDermott’s Castle
- Famous Appearance: McDermott’s Castle was featured in the Emmy award-winning television sitcom Moone Boy, adding a touch of modern fame to its rich history.
- A Poet’s Dream: In 1890, the renowned poet W.B. Yeats visited the island and fell in love with the castle. He even dreamed of buying it to establish an art center, though, sadly, his vision was never realized.
- Activities Year-Round: Boating and kayaking are popular ways to reach Castle Island, and these activities are available all year long. The serene waters of Lough Key make the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself.
- A Final Resting Place: After marveling at the ruins of McDermott’s Castle, visitors often head to Trinity Island, believed to be the resting place of Úna Bhán, adding a heartfelt touch to the adventure.
- A Must-Visit Destination: McDermott’s Castle is more than just a historical site—it’s an experience. Its timeless beauty and deep connection to Ireland’s heritage make it a place you’ll never forget. Just stepping onto the island feels like walking into a storybook, where history, legend, and nature collide.
Visitor Experience of McDermott’s Castle
Visiting McDermott’s Castle on Castle Island is like stepping into a storybook where history, legend, and nature come alive. Here’s what you can expect and why it’s worth the trip:
A Stunning Sight
The castle sits majestically on a tiny island in Lough Key, surrounded by tranquil waters and lush greenery. Even though it’s overgrown with ivy and in ruins, the sand-colored stone walls, turrets, and empty windows still hold their charm. It’s a perfect spot for capturing breathtaking photos, especially on sunny days. If you have a drone, you can snap stunning aerial shots of the castle and its surroundings.
Rich History and Legends
McDermott’s Castle has a long, fascinating history dating back to the 12th century when it served as the stronghold of the McDermott clan. You can almost feel the whispers of its past as you explore the area. Don’t forget to delve into the legend of Úna Bhán, the chieftain’s daughter whose love story has captivated visitors for centuries. For those interested in archaeology, recent excavations revealed medieval buildings, high-status Gaelic artifacts, and ancient fortifications dating back to the early medieval era.
A Day of Adventure: McDermott’s Castle
Lough Key Forest Park, adjacent to the castle, is perfect for a full day of exploration. With over 30 wooded islands and attractions like the observation tower, underground tunnels, and the picturesque Trinity Bridge, there’s no shortage of things to do. Boat tours and kayaking offer year-round access to Castle Island, making it easy to experience this historic gem.
Practical Tips for McDermott’s Castle
- Parking Fee: The park offers convenient parking for €4.
- Best Time to Visit: Sunny days are ideal for picnics and exploring.
- What to Bring: A camera or drone for capturing the stunning scenery, and comfortable shoes for exploring the surrounding park.
Nearby Attractions of McDermott’s Castle
Don’t miss Trinity Island, believed to be Úna Bhán’s final resting place. Other nearby islands feature ruins of churches, towers, and even unmarked graves, adding an extra layer of mystery and beauty to the area.
A Glimpse Into the Past
While much of McDermott’s Castle is in a “perilous state,” the ruins still reflect the grandeur of its heyday. Imagine what it would be like if this historic gem were fully restored! No wonder it’s recognized as a National Monument of Ireland and holds a special place in Irish heritage.
McDermott’s Castle offers a magical mix of history, romance, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Ireland. Whether you’re drawn by its legends, intrigued by its past, or simply want to enjoy a peaceful day by the lake, this destination has something for everyone.
Wanna stay in a Castle? Then read How to Rent a Castle in Ireland.
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