Doe Castle

Doe Castle, or Caisleán na dTuath, is a striking 15th-century fortress located near Creeslough in County Donegal, Ireland. Perched on a small peninsula in Sheephaven Bay, the castle is surrounded on three sides by water, with a rock-cut moat fortifying its landward side—a testament to its strategic design .​

The castle is conveniently situated near several villages along the Mulroy Drive:​

  • Creeslough: Approximately 3.5 km away, about a 5-minute drive.​

  • Carrigart: Approximately 6 km away, about a 10-minute drive.​

  • Downings: Roughly 10 km away, around a 15-minute drive.​

These short distances make Doe Castle an accessible and worthwhile stop when exploring the Drive.

Origins and the MacSweeney Era

Constructed around 1420, Doe Castle was initially associated with the O'Donnell family but soon came under the control of the MacSweeney clan, a branch of Scottish gallowglass mercenaries. For nearly two centuries, it served as the seat of the MacSweeney Doe chieftains, with at least 13 chiefs residing there .​

The castle played a role in significant historical events. In 1588, MacSweeney chief Eoghan Óg II provided refuge to survivors of the Spanish Armada. Later, in 1601, the last chief, Maolmhuire an Bhata Bhui, joined Red Hugh O’Donnell at the Battle of Kinsale.

Shifting Ownership and Military Significance

Following the Battle of Kinsale, Doe Castle was seized by the English Crown. In 1613, it was granted to Sir John Davies, the Attorney General for Ireland, and subsequently sold to Captain John Sandford in 1614 .​

During the Irish Confederate Wars, the castle's strategic importance was evident. In 1642, Owen Roe O’Neill used Doe Castle as his base upon returning from Europe to lead the Ulster Army . The castle changed hands multiple times throughout the 17th century, reflecting the turbulent nature of the era.​

Architectural Features

Doe Castle exemplifies the Scottish tower house style, featuring a four-storey tower with walls approximately eight feet thick. The surrounding bawn walls, complete with flankers, provided additional defense. A notable feature is the moat, hewn directly into the bedrock, enhancing the castle's defensibility .​

Restoration and Present Day

After falling into disrepair, Doe Castle was designated a national monument in 1934 and came under the care of the Office of Public Works. Restoration efforts have preserved much of its original structure, including the main tower dating back to the 1420s. Today, visitors can explore the castle grounds and view interpretive panels detailing its rich history.​

Legends and Cultural Significance

Local folklore enriches Doe Castle's history. One tale recounts the tragic love story of Eileen MacSweeney and a young O’Boyle chieftain, ending in heartbreak and haunting. Such stories contribute to the castle's mystique and cultural heritage.

Doe Castle remains a symbol of Ireland's complex history, blending architectural prowess with tales of love, war, and resilience.​