The site is almost completely surrounded by water, with only a narrow connection to the mainland that’s been cleverly defended by a substantial earthen bank and a wide, deep ditch that curves from the northeast through the east to the southeast. This strategic positioning would have made the castle nearly impossible to approach without being spotted by defenders.

The centrepiece of the fortification is its impressive motte, a circular earthen mound that rises 4 to 5 metres high in the southeastern portion of the site. With a base diameter of roughly 28 metres tapering to a 12 metre wide flat summit, this steep-sided mound would have originally supported a wooden tower or keep where the lord and his household lived. The motte is separated from the rest of the castle complex by a shallow ditch on its northeastern side, beyond which lies the bailey; essentially the castle’s courtyard where daily life unfolded.

The bailey itself is divided into two distinct courts by a low stone wall, with the outer court connecting to what appears to be a rectangular depression that likely served as a boat slip. This would have allowed the castle’s inhabitants direct access to Lough Ramor for fishing, transport, and potentially escape if needed. Whilst no traces of buildings remain visible within the bailey today, these areas would have once bustled with wooden structures including stables, workshops, kitchens, and accommodation for soldiers and servants. The site stands as a well-preserved example of how the Normans adapted their castle-building techniques to Ireland’s lake-dotted landscape.