Attractions and Places To See around Cloghmore - Top 8
Attractions and places to see around Cloghmore include historical sites, natural landscapes, and unique sculptures. This region offers a variety of points of interest for exploration. Visitors can discover ancient ruins, serene loughs, and distinctive artistic installations. The area provides opportunities for those interested in history, nature, and local culture.
Best attractions and places to see around Cloghmore
- The most popular attractions is Garaidh Den Drum (Spike) Sculpture, a man-made monument known as Spike, a spear thrower. This large…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
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Garaidh Den Drum (Spike) Sculpture
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Clones Round Tower
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Carnmore Lough
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Lough Corry
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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This is an extraordinarily wild and scenic part of Northern Ireland. The lough appears on your right as you travel down Carnmore Road against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest.
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Garaidh Den Drum is known as Spike and is a spear thrower. He is on the hill facing Roddy and waiting to catch you out. A large spike at the split in the path is a sure sign that Garaidh is close by. (https://travel2ireland.ie/the-giants-of-the-drumlins-monaghan-forest-trail/)
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This mountain lake in Doon Forest is reputed for good brown trout fishing. Anglers can wade on one side of the shore. This lough provides excellent fishing from a boat also.
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The round tower in Clones was originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey. Although it would once have stood at 75 feet (23 m), the top part is now missing. Nonetheless, it is still a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. There would once have been four storeys, including a bell storey. St Tierney's graveyard, which surrounds the tower, is also an interesting place to explore with many 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique attractions to explore around Cloghmore?
The Cloghmore area offers a mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and distinctive art. You can visit the ancient Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery with a rich history, or discover the intriguing Garaidh Den Drum (Spike) Sculpture, a man-made monument known as Spike, a spear thrower.
Are there any historical sites or ancient ruins to visit?
Yes, the area is rich in history. You can explore Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century, originally founded in the 6th century. Nearby, you'll also find the Clones Round Tower, a prominent feature on Clones' skyline, originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey.
What natural landscapes and viewpoints can I find near Cloghmore?
For natural beauty, visit Carnmore Lough, an extraordinarily wild and scenic part of Northern Ireland, appearing against a backdrop of coniferous forest. Another beautiful spot is Lough Corry, a mountain lake in Doon Forest known for brown trout fishing.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Cloghmore area?
Yes, both Clones 'Wee' Abbey and the Garaidh Den Drum (Spike) Sculpture are considered family-friendly attractions. The abbey offers an interesting historical exploration with its crumbling walls and graveyard, while the sculpture provides a unique point of interest within a forest setting.
What kind of outdoor activities or routes can I do near these attractions?
The Cloghmore area is great for cycling. You can find various routes, such as the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Clones - Newbliss - Scotshouse' or the 'Clones 'Wee' Abbey – Clones Round Tower loop from Clones'. For more options, explore the Cycling around Cloghmore guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Cloghmore guide.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for beginners or casual strolls?
While specific walking trails for beginners aren't detailed for the immediate attractions, many of the cycling routes around Cloghmore offer easy options that can be adapted for walking. For example, the 'Creighton Hotel – Clones 'Wee' Abbey loop from Clones' is an easy cycling route that could provide a pleasant walk. Always check the terrain and distance before heading out.
What is the best time of year to visit Cloghmore attractions?
The Cloghmore area, with its historical sites and natural loughs, is generally pleasant to visit from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder, making it more comfortable for exploring outdoor attractions like the loughs and abbey ruins. Winter visits are possible but may involve colder, wetter conditions.
Can I go fishing in any of the loughs?
Yes, Lough Corry in Doon Forest is reputed for good brown trout fishing. Anglers can wade on one side of the shore, and it also provides excellent fishing from a boat.
What makes Clones 'Wee' Abbey a significant historical site?
Clones 'Wee' Abbey is significant because it's a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century, with its origins as early as the 6th century. It suffered destruction multiple times, including during the Protestant Reformation, yet its crumbling walls and interesting graveyard remain, offering a tangible link to centuries of Irish history.
Where can I find panoramic views in the Cloghmore area?
While not explicitly a dedicated viewpoint, Carnmore Lough offers an extraordinarily scenic vista, with the lough appearing against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest. The area around the lough provides a sense of wild, natural beauty.
Are there any unique art installations or sculptures to see?
Yes, the Garaidh Den Drum (Spike) Sculpture is a unique man-made monument. Known as Spike, it represents a spear thrower and is marked by a large spike at a path split, indicating Garaidh's presence in the area.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Cloghmore?
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and natural beauty. The ancient ruins of Clones 'Wee' Abbey and the Clones Round Tower offer a glimpse into the past, while the serene loughs like Carnmore Lough provide peaceful, scenic experiences. The unique Garaidh Den Drum (Spike) Sculpture also adds an element of intrigue.
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