Enniskillen Castle, situated beside the River Erne in County Fermanagh, was built almost 600 years ago by Gaelic Maguire chieftains.
The chieftain at the time, King Thomas Maguire, (Thomas the Great) ruled from Lisnaskea in the south-eastern part of the county.
His younger brother, Hugh ‘The Hospitable’ Maguire, was deputy chieftain and he is credited with building Enniskillen Castle, locating it in a strong defensive position beside the River Erne.
The original castle, a small square tower-house, guarded one of the few passes into Ulster and defended Fermanagh from attack, particularly from the neighbouring O’Rourke and O’Donnell clans.
Guarding one of the few passes into Ulster, it was strategically important throughout its history.
In the 17th century it became an English garrison fort and later served as part of a military barracks.
It is now a fantastic military museum and well worth seeing on any tour of Ireland.
It is a regular stopping point with Ireland Luxury Tours.
1. Lauren
January 1, 2010The Enniskillen Castle museum is full of fantastic uniforms and weapons. It is well worth seeing!
2. Desmond
January 3, 2010When in Enniskillen dont fail to visit Devenish Island
The boat trip on lough Erne is fantastic and the island is well worth seeing
3. Desmond
January 3, 2010Enniskillen is good town to do some shopping
Most of shops are owned and oprrated by local people,who always have time chat,there are also supermarkets such as Tesco Asda and M&S plus a very large shopping Mall