Known as Cloonacastle, this Anglo-Norman fortification consists of two distinct parts: a circular mound approximately 20 metres in diameter, though its southern section has been destroyed over time, and a D-shaped bailey measuring roughly 35 metres east to west that adjoins the motte to the south.

The bailey is defined by a steep scarp standing 1.7 metres high, particularly pronounced from the northeast to southwest sections. A defensive ditch, or fosse, about 2 metres wide runs alongside an outer bank that curves from the southeast to northwest, providing additional protection to the fortification. The current field boundary that curves from east-northeast to east-southeast likely follows the original line of this defensive bank, offering a glimpse of the castle’s medieval footprint in the modern landscape.

Archaeological records indicate that a castle structure once crowned the top of the motte, typical of these Norman defensive works that appeared across Ireland following the Anglo-Norman invasion of the 12th century. The entire monument takes advantage of the natural defences provided by the hillock’s steep slopes, a common feature in motte and bailey design that combined artificial earthworks with natural topography to create formidable defensive positions. Today, whilst the stone structures have long since vanished, the earthworks remain clearly visible, offering visitors a tangible connection to Ireland’s medieval past.