The motte itself is a circular, grass-covered mound with a flat top measuring approximately 25 metres east to west and 22 metres north to south. The base extends to 39 metres at its widest point, and the structure is defined by scarps that range from 1.5 metres high on the western side to over 5 metres where the mound blends into the natural slope on the eastern, northern, and southern sides.

Attached to the motte is a crescent-shaped bailey that stretches 48 metres from north to south and 23 metres from east to west. This defensive enclosure is marked by scarps and, on the western side, a substantial bank and fosse system. The bank has a base width of 7 metres, standing 0.6 metres high on the interior and 1.9 metres on the exterior, whilst the accompanying fosse measures 7 metres across at the top with an external depth of 1 metre.

This type of fortification was typical of the Anglo-Norman period following their arrival in Ireland in the 12th century. The motte would have originally supported a wooden tower or keep, serving as the last line of defence, whilst the bailey provided a protected area for buildings such as stables, workshops, and living quarters. The strategic positioning on elevated ground with natural rock outcrops would have given the castle’s defenders clear views across the surrounding landscape, making it an effective military and administrative centre for the Norman lords who sought to control this part of Meath.