Clough Oughter Castle

Heritage

Clough Oughter Castle can be seen clearly from Rann Point as it stands alone in the middle of the vast and uninterrupted beauty of Lough Oughter. The circular Anglo-Norman tower is situated on a small man-made island that was built by the Anglo-Norman de Lacy family in the early 13th Century when they tried to conquer the local Irish Chieftains. It’s rather amazing to imagine the efforts of those at the time of building. To create an island is no mean feat, and some great engineers must have been on hand!

Conservation began on this site in 1987, as it was recognised as a place of great importance. The beautiful structure is protected under the National Monuments Act.

The site has been described as “magical” and “like something plucked straight out of a fairytale”.

On a bright sunny day, you’ll have the chance to spot some purple rushes, stunning yellow water lilies and graceful white swans, all enjoying the waters that surround the castle. You also may be lucky to spot a Great Blue Heron, which often visits this site.