First mentioned in 1587 when the lands were granted to Sir John O’Doherty, the castle served as the chief stronghold of the O’Doherty clan. A detailed illustration from 1601 shows it at its most impressive; a formidable fortress with thick defensive walls, two casemates, and five pieces of artillery, strategically positioned on a hill that was nearly surrounded by sea on three sides, with a bog protecting the fourth approach.

The castle’s ownership changed hands repeatedly during the early 17th century, reflecting the political upheavals of the period. English forces occupied it from 1601 to 1602, but it was returned to Cahir O’Doherty when peace was restored. However, after Cahir’s rebellion in 1608, the castle was captured and the estate eventually leased to Thomas Chichester as part of the Ulster Plantation. By 1611, Chichester had rebuilt the castle and constructed a substantial stone house within its bawn walls, along with two timber houses outside the fortifications. The property passed to Sir Charles Chichester and likely remained inhabited until around 1690.

Time hasn’t been kind to Burt Castle; parts were demolished in the early 19th century, and by 1833 the structure had lost its roof. Further damage occurred around 1890 when many of the windows were destroyed. Today, visitors can explore what remains of this once mighty fortress, including remnants of the 16th and 17th century house at nearby Grange. These ruins stand as physical reminders of a pivotal period in Irish history, when ancient Gaelic lordships gave way to English colonial rule, forever changing the landscape and culture of Ulster.