Moygara Castle, Connacht Travel Guide

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Explore the historic ruins of Moygara Castle in County Sligo, a 16th-century Gaelic stronghold with impressive towers and a rich O'Gara clan legacy.

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Moygara Castle

Moygara Castle, located near Gorteen in County Sligo, is a late 16th-century Gaelic castle associated with the O'Gara clan. The castle's ruins feature a large square bawn with angled residential towers and a gatehouse, offering a glimpse into the region's rich history.

A brief summary to Moygara Castle

Gorteen, Moygara, Co. Sligo, IE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Moygara Castle.

Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best light for photography.
Check the local weather forecast before your visit, as the area can be quite changeable.
Explore the nearby walking trails to fully experience the stunning Sligo countryside.
Wear appropriate footwear, as the castle grounds can be mucky, especially after rain.

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Explore Moygara Castle on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Moygara Castle, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

To reach Moygara Castle by car, navigate to Gorteen, County Sligo. From Sligo town, head south on the N4. After approximately 25 km, take the exit toward the R294 toward Ballymote. Continue on the R294 for about 10 km until you reach Gorteen. Follow the signs for Moygara Castle, located approximately 2 km from the village center. The castle is situated at Moygara, Gorteen, Co. Sligo.
Public Transport

To reach Moygara Castle via public transportation, take a bus from Sligo town to Ballymote. Bus Éireann provides bus service several times a day. From Ballymote, take a taxi or arrange a local shuttle service to Moygara Castle, approximately 8 km away. Bus ticket from Sligo to Ballymote is approximately €10. Taxi fares may vary.

Discover more about Moygara Castle

Nestled in the rolling countryside of southern County Sligo, Moygara Castle stands as a testament to the region's Gaelic heritage. Dating back to the late 16th and early 17th centuries, this castle was once the stronghold of the O'Gara clan, who ruled the area around Lough Gara.The castle's design is distinguished by its large square bawn, measuring approximately 51 meters by 51 meters, with residential towers at each of the four corners. A gatehouse, now in ruins, once stood along the western side, providing access to the castle grounds. While the castle is now in ruins, the remaining structure showcases the ingenuity of its builders, with intricate stonework and a strategic layout. Gun loops located along the walls and towers, along with a fireplace in one of the towers, are still visible.Over the centuries, Moygara Castle has witnessed its share of conflict. It was attacked in 1538 by O'Donnell and again in 1581 by mercenary Scots, who burned the buildings. In 1654, Fearghal O'Gadhra, the last owner of the castle, was evicted by Cromwell's army. Today, the castle is on privately owned land. The Moygara Castle Research and Conservation Group has been working since 2005 to highlight the castle's importance and work towards its conservation.