Coole Castle - Castle in Northern Ireland • Go-to-Ireland.com

Coole Castle is a neo-classical Northern Irish castle built in the 18th century. Located in the medieval village of Enniskillen, this imposing manor-like castle is set in an idyllic estate in the heart of the Irish countryside!

History of Coole castle

A summer residence for the Marquis of Belmore

Coole Castle was built between 1789 and 1798 for Armar Lowry-Corry, 1st Marquess of Belmore and a senior member of Parliament at the time. A wealthy heir and landowner, he financed the castle’s construction through the sale of some of his land scattered across Ireland.

It was for the astonishing sum of £57,000 (equivalent to £20 million today) that he built his future summer residence. Set in wooded grounds, Armar Lowry-Corry is looking forward to the change of scenery and comfort the château will provide…

In 1800, the signing of the Act of Union enabled the owner to leave Dublin permanently and set up full-time business at the château. On his death, Armar Lowry-Corry sold the property to his son, who in turn sold it to his heirs.

In 1951, the 7th Marquess of Belmore decided to sell the castle to the National Trust, following the deaths of his 2 cousins (5th and 6th Marquesses of Belmore), and the exorbitant inheritance costs.

The National Trust opens the castle to the public during the summer months, and allows tours of the estate all year round. Restoration work began in 1980 and continued until 1988. (In fact, Queen Elizabeth is making an official visit to celebrate the completion of the work).

Since then, the château has been open to the public.

Visit the Coole castle

A tasteful manor house

Coole Castle and the entire estate can be visited at any time of year for £5 per person. During a guided tour, you can explore the different rooms and configurations of the château, from its kitchens to its bedrooms and reception rooms.

The furnishings and decor are period, reflecting the former owners’ great taste for the neo-classical style. Everything about it is imposing, subtle, and crafted by renowned artisans.

The most exceptional room in the château is the master bedroom, decorated in a flamboyant style, with carmine silk draperies, engravings and fine gilding… It’s a busy piece, but it’s stylish and rich!

As for the rest of the property, don’t hesitate to take a stroll around the estate: spread over 5km², the land is wooded and dotted with small lakes and rivers of unrivalled charm. An opportunity to enjoy the peace and quiet of the wild Irish countryside!