Castleblayney is situated to the east of the county close to the Armagh border. The population of this town is around 3000. The town was founded on the site of an early Christian Church and the local Hanratty chieftains originally controlled the area. The town was built by Blayney family. The Courthouse, Market House and Church of Ireland church too included in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Hope Castle was named after Henry Hope, owner of one of the largest uncut diamonds in the world. He bought the estate in 1870 and it is now part of Lough Muckno Leisure Park that incorporates a Water-ski Centre, group activities, conference facilities, restaurant and bar. The leisure complex also has a splendid 9-hole golf course and forest trails with lakeside picnic areas. This town encourages the Western music. The town has musical links with Big Tom and Paddy Cole. Musical nights are arranged in many pubs.
