The current structure dates to 1861, but it occupies the site of an earlier mansion built in 1751, which itself was likely a rebuilding of a 17th century house. Evidence of this earlier dwelling survives in the form of a date stone built into the wall at the southeast corner of an outbuilding in the yard behind the castle. The inscription, carved in false relief, displays the initials WH and IM alongside the date 1621, offering a tangible link to the site’s early modern origins.

Archaeological monitoring carried out in December 2006 during redevelopment works revealed fascinating details about the castle’s evolution. When archaeologist Christopher J. Farrimond and his team removed the accumulated soil and rubble from collapsed portions at the rear of the castle, they exposed floor levels that told an unexpected story. Rather than dating to the Victorian era as one might expect, these floors appeared to be from the 20th century, when the building served as a hotel. The redevelopment plans thoughtfully preserved many of the historic features, including the restoration of the 1861 castle’s south elevation, which had fallen into disrepair, the 1911 building elevations, and what may be a 17th century long range to the rear of the castle building.

Whilst no previously unrecorded archaeological features or artefacts emerged during the monitoring, the site remains a compelling example of architectural continuity in County Donegal. The castle’s various incarnations; from possible 17th century house to Georgian mansion, Victorian castle, and 20th century hotel; reflect centuries of adaptation and reuse, with each era leaving its mark on this picturesque location beside Lough Eske.