Parkes Castle, County Leitrim

Parke's castle is situated in an idyllic location on the shores of Lough Gill in County Leitrim. Originally, it all started with a tower house. It's foundation can still be seen in the courtyard.
When the Spanish Armada was shipwrecked at Grange, Captain Francisco de Cuéllar found refuge at O’Rourke’s Castle. He eventually made his way back to Spain, where he wrote about the kindness and hospitality he received from O’Rourke. Once the English learned of this, they sent forces to destroy the tower, captured O’Rourke, and later executed him.

After these events, the original tower was demolished by Captain Robert Parke, who reused the stone to build a three‑storey fortified manor house on the site.

The castle has been lovingly restored by the OPW, and one of its standout features is the impressive Irish oak roof, crafted using traditional 17th‑century techniques. Inside, a recreated family room offers a glimpse into how Captain Robert Parke and his household would have lived, adding a vivid sense of history to the experience.
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Just beyond the castle, the landscape opens toward Lough Gill, one of Sligo’s most scenic and storied lakes. Its wooded shores, tranquil waters, and small islands — including the famous Lake Isle of Innisfree — add a beautiful natural backdrop to the area’s rich history. The combination of heritage and landscape makes this corner of Sligo a rewarding place to explore.

There is also a museum on the grounds that showcases vernacular buildings from the North West. The displays offer a fascinating insight into how people once lived in rural Ireland, highlighting traditional craftsmanship, everyday tools, and the rhythms of life in past centuries.

In the yard, you’ll find several restored stone buildings — one converted into a traditional blacksmith’s workshop and another repurposed as visitor facilities. There’s also an old water well, and within the gardens, close to the shores of Lough Gill, you can discover a small sweathouse tucked into the landscape.
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The castle is well worth a visit and offers plenty to keep children entertained. And on a clear day, the views across Lough Gill are absolutely stunning, adding a beautiful natural backdrop to the historic setting.