Aileach Castle

The Department's description

Exterior description and setting

On a prominent outcrop of rock nests the remains of a ruinous stone turret the height of which is approximately 4500mm from the top of the rock. The outer stonework of the curve appears to be random rubble schist but gives the impression of being built in concentric courses. While the stones don’t appear shaped they have been carefully chosen to give the impression of coursing. Generally the stones are about 150mm with some smaller and some larger, the depth of 2 or 3 courses. Approximately 900mm from the top there is a continuous band of larger stones. The inner core of the turret is a mass of stone, all smallish. On the side opposite the curved walling there is some regularity of stone building but it is possibly an attempt to prevent collapse of the stonework. Near the top a scraggy tree has managed to grow and the top has a wig of grass.

The
setting of the ruin is magnificent, set on a rocky outcrop on rising ground with a fine view of Grianan of Aileach. Also to be seen is Inch Castle ruins which was of similar construction to Aileach Castle.

Access to the site is along a laneway of approximately 30 metres from the Upper Galliagh Road, possibly the gable of a dwelling.

Historical information

Aileach is thought to be of 15th cent. and contemporary with Burt and Inch Castle. It was a castle of the O’Doherty clan of Inishowen but built by the overlord Neachtán O’Donnell. It was occupied by O’Doherty during the period of Docwra’s sojourn in the area. Sir John O’Doherty began part demolition of the castle sometime after Docwra’s 1st expedition in the area. The castle was restored by Docwra to Sir Cahir O’Doherty son of Sir John. The castle became ruinous after the death of Sir Cahir in 1608. Burt Castle on which Aileach was based consisted of a square keep with diagonally opposite ¾ engaged turrets. One of these turrets contained a stairway, the other a latrine. There is a sketch of the turret run in Colbay’s O.S. Memoir which is probably taken from a sketch drawn by an English lieutenant in the 18th c which is in the manuscript library of Trinity College, Dublin.

The ruin is presently in the ownership of a nearby farmer.
The monument record no. is LDY No. 14A:3.

References

Primary Sources
1. Sketch of Ruin Manuscript Library Trinity College Dublin
2. Owner of Land 1999

Secondary Sources
1. O.S. Memoir Parish of Templemore, Londonderry 1837 ed. PP 234, 235, 236.
2. Peter Hutchinson, Guide National Monuments Ireland P.63.
3. H.C. Swan Romantic Stories and Legends of Donegal P42
4. B Bonner That Audacious Traitor PP 176, 191.

Criteria for listing: architectural interest

Not listed

Criteria for listing: historic interest

Not listed