Attractions and Places To See around Cleenagh - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Cleenagh include historical sites, natural reserves, and ancient ruins. This region, located near Lough Erne, offers a mix of cultural heritage and natural landscapes. Visitors can explore significant historical monuments and expansive estates. The area provides opportunities for discovering hidden gems and engaging with local history.
Best attractions and places to see around Cleenagh
- The most popular attractions is Old Crom Castle Ruins, a viewpoint that is set on the shores of…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
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Crom Estate Castle Ruins
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Clones Round Tower
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Old Crom Castle Ruins
Highlight • Viewpoint
Wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels and many rare …
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Crom Castle Boathouse
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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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Managed by the National Trust, the Crom Estate is a large nature reserve of woodlands, lake, castle ruins and islands. It is an important habitat for pine martens, bats, deer, red squirrels and butterflies. There is a coffee shop at the estate and if you fancy something different you can hire a boat to explore the lough. For more details check out the website https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/crom
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The Crom Castle estate boathouse sits on the shore of Lough Erne below the main castle. The views out on onto the water from the boathouse are splendid, the perfect spot to pull up a picnic blanket and enjoy some relaxation.
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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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Set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Crom is one of Ireland's most important nature conservation areas. Wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels and many rare species including butterflies can all be found on the estate. Also inhabiting the surrounding area are all eight species of native bats and an outstanding array of rare lichens. The 2,000 acre demesne contains ancient woodland, tranquil islands, estate cottages and Old Crom Castle, all linked by the breathtakingly beautiful landscape designed by W.S.Gilpin in the 19th century. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/crom-estate-p675551)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Cleenagh?
Cleenagh is rich in history. You can explore the ancient Old Crom Castle Ruins, set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne, or the nearby Crom Estate Castle Ruins, managed by the National Trust. Don't miss Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined 12th-century monastery, and the prominent Clones Round Tower, dating back to the 10th century.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Cleenagh area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Both the Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins offer expansive grounds for exploration and wildlife spotting. The Clones 'Wee' Abbey also provides an interesting historical visit for all ages. Additionally, the Crom Castle Boathouse offers splendid views and is a great spot for a family picnic by the lake.
What natural features can I see around Cleenagh?
The region is known for its natural beauty, particularly around Lough Erne. The Crom Estate, home to both Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins, is an important nature conservation area. Here you can find ancient woodlands, tranquil islands, and a diverse range of wildlife including wild deer, red squirrels, pine martens, and various rare species. The Crom Castle Boathouse offers stunning views of Lough Erne itself.
Are there easy walking trails near Cleenagh's attractions?
Yes, particularly around the Crom Estate. You can find several easy hiking routes, such as the Crom Estate Trail, which is just over 4 km long. Other easy options include loops around the Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins, ranging from 3.4 km to 7.2 km. For more details, explore the hiking guide for Cleenagh.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond exploring the historical sites, Cleenagh offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the Kingfisher Cycle Trail, or shorter loops around Clones. There are also running trails, including moderate loops around Old Crom Castle and Dummys Lough. For detailed routes, check out the cycling guide, running trails guide, and hiking guide for Cleenagh.
What is the best time to visit Cleenagh attractions?
The best time to visit Cleenagh's outdoor attractions is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder and drier, making it more pleasant for exploring historical sites, walking trails, and enjoying the natural landscapes around Lough Erne.
Are there any viewpoints to enjoy scenic vistas?
Yes, the Old Crom Castle Ruins offer a fantastic viewpoint overlooking Upper Lough Erne. Additionally, the Crom Castle Boathouse provides splendid views out onto the water, perfect for relaxation and photography.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Crom Estate?
Crom Estate is a significant nature conservation area. Visitors often spot wild deer, red squirrels, and pine martens. The estate is also home to all eight species of native bats and an outstanding array of rare lichens, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Can I hire a boat at Crom Estate?
Yes, if you're looking for a different way to explore Lough Erne, you can hire a boat at Crom Estate. This allows you to experience the lake and its surroundings from the water. For more details, it's best to check the National Trust website for Crom Estate.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Cleenagh?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The ancient ruins like Old Crom Castle Ruins and Clones 'Wee' Abbey offer a glimpse into the past, while the expansive Crom Estate provides opportunities for wildlife spotting and enjoying tranquil lakeside views. The overall peaceful atmosphere and the chance to connect with both history and nature are highly valued.
Is there parking available at the main attractions?
While specific parking details for each site are not provided, major attractions like Crom Estate typically offer designated parking facilities for visitors. For smaller sites like Clones 'Wee' Abbey and Clones Round Tower, parking may be available nearby in the town of Clones.
Are the attractions around Cleenagh generally accessible?
Many of the historical sites, such as the ruins and abbeys, are outdoor and may involve uneven terrain. However, areas like Crom Estate, managed by the National Trust, often have maintained paths and facilities that cater to a wider range of visitors. It's advisable to check specific accessibility information for each site if you have particular requirements.
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