Aileach Castle, Near Elagh House, 33 Upper Galliagh Road, Londonderry, BT48 8LW

On a prominent outcrop of rock nests the remains of a ruinous stone turret the height of which is approximately 4500mm from the top of the rock. The outer stonework of the curve appears to be random rubble schist but gives the impression of being built in concentric courses. While the stones don’t appear shaped they have been carefully chosen to give the impression of coursing. Generally the stones are about 150mm with some smaller and some larger, the depth of 2 or 3 courses. Approximately 900mm from the top there is a continuous band of larger stones. The inner core of the turret is a mass of stone, all smallish. On the side opposite the curved walling there is some regularity of stone building but it is possibly an attempt to prevent collapse of the stonework. Near the top a scraggy tree has managed to grow and the top has a wig of grass. The setting of the ruin is magnificent, set on a rocky outcrop on rising ground with a fine view of Grianan of Aileach. Also to be seen is Inch Castle ruins which was of similar construction to Aileach Castle. Access to the site is along a laneway of approximately 30 metres from the Upper Galliagh Road, possibly the gable of a dwelling.