Donegal Self Catering
Bookmark and Share

Holiday Cottages, Apartments & Houses to Rent in County Donegal, Ireland
Donegal Self Catering

Céad Míle Fáílte

Welcome

Bienvenue

Willkommen

Check Availability

Location:
Arrive:
Depart:
Heritage -> Inishowen
<-<-Back
  Burt Castle : Inishowen


Address :
Burt

Surrounding Area :
None Given
Description :

Burt Castle is probably the best known castle in the north-west because of it prominent position on a hilltop clearly visible from the Derry-Letterkenny road. There is no path or road to the site of the castle and it is on private land. It is possible to get close to it by taking one of the roads leading off of the main Derry-Letterkenny road.

It was built in the sixteenth century during the reign of Henry the VIII. A medallion found near the castle was dated 1525 and a coin of 1547 was found nearby. In 1587 two brothers, Richard and Henry Hovenden were in command here and they were ordered to resist the Spanish Armada.
When the O'Dohertys lost Elagh Castle, they took refuge here. Sir Cahair O'Doherty was in charge in 1601 and it was later garrisoned by Hugh Boy O'Doherty. When Sir Cahair began his rebellion against the crown the English attacked it but were beaten back. After the defeat of Sir Cahair it fell into the hands of the Chichester family. It is recorded that it was in ruin in 1833 and has suffered further damage since.

The walls are built of rough rubble and the keep is three stories. There are two circular watch towers which offer superb views of the surrounding countryside. Both have openings for muskets. A stair within one of the towers is in good condition and can be used to the top story, where there is a small vaulted chamber.



Notes :

There is no path or road to the site of the castle and it is on private land

Contact Details :
None Given
^Top
Web Design © OSD 2005 - 2012 Content © Donegal Self Catering Association 2005 - 2012
C/O Donegal Self Catering, Tirhomin, Milford Co. Donegal   |   Tel: +353 (0) 87 619 02 40  

Cottages in Donegal

Special Offers in Donegal

Heritage in Donegal

Accomodation in Donegal

Activities in Donegal

Self Catering in Donegal

Places To Go in Donegal

Houses in Donegal