Best attractions and places to see around Devenish Island are found within Lower Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. This island is known for its historical and cultural sites, offering insights into early Christian Ireland. Accessible by boat, the island provides a serene environment for exploration. It features well-preserved monastic ruins and natural surroundings.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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Along the Beech Trail, you'll discover some of the oldest trees on the estate, including Oak and the sprawling limbs of this Horse Chestnut, forming a natural arch over the path.
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In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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Devenish Monastic Site is generally considered to be the most important of Lough Erne's many island church settlements. Devenish was founded in the 6th century by St Molaise. It was raided by Vikings in 837 and burned in 1157, but in the Middle Ages flourished as the site of a parish church and St Mary's Augustinian Priory. There are extensive low earthworks on the hillside, but the earliest buildings are St Molaise's House (a very small church) and the fine round tower close by, both with striking Romanesque decorations from the 12th century. Teampull Mór, the lower church, dates from the early 13th century and has a beautifully moulded south window. It was extended to the east in about 1300, while later additions include a residential wing to the north and the Maguire Chapel to the south, with 17th century heraldic slabs. St Mary's Augustinian Priory on the hilltop dates from the middle 15th and early 16th centuries, with church, tower and small north cloister. In its graveyard stands an unusual, intricately-carved cross of the middle 15th century. - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devenish_Island - https://web.archive.org/web/20120224043140/http://www.culturenorthernireland.org/article.aspx?art_id=746
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In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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The magnificent Enniskillen Castle is situated in the heart of Enniskillen on the banks of the River Erne. The castle was founded in the 15th century by Hugh 'The Hospitable' Maguire and belonged to the Maguire family for centuries. Between 2007 and 2013 a massive refurbishment took place so that the castle could be opened to the public. Today you can explore the castle grounds and learn about this landmarks rich history.
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Run past the beautiful Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th century manor house set in a gorgeous 1,200 acre wooded landscape park.
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Castle Coole is one of the most magnificent Neo-classical houses in Ireland set in a 1,200 acre (490 ha) wooded estate. Built in the 18th century, the grand mansion was home to the Earls of Belmore. The 7th Earl Belmore gave the manion to the National Trust in 1951. The house was originally constructed as a summer retreat and cost £57,000, the equivalent of around £20 million today. It is set amongst beautiful parklands dotted with oak, ash and beech trees. Some of the land is given to local farmers to graze their cattle and sheep. You can visit the mansion and its grounds for an insight of how life would once have been for its wealthy inhabitants and their staff. Entrance to the grounds costs £5 per adult.
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Built in the 16th century, Enniskillen Castle has many stories to tell – from Irish rebellions against English rule to sieges and protection from the threat of French invasion. In the 1950s, the castle was decommissioned as an army barracks and opened as a heritage centre. Today, you can visit the museum to learn about the region's history. The castle is open from 9.30am to 5pm (Monday to Friday) and from 11am - 5pm on weekends.
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Beyond the island itself, you can visit Enniskillen Castle, a 16th-century fortress on the River Erne that now houses a museum. Another significant historical site is Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, featuring ancient religious artifacts and notable carved stones. Additionally, Castle Coole, an 18th-century neoclassical mansion, offers insights into the region's past.
The area is rich in natural beauty, with Lower Lough Erne providing a picturesque backdrop. You can discover the Ancient Chestnut Tree, a natural monument forming an arch over a path within a forest, part of the estate's oldest trees.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle offers an engaging museum experience. The Ancient Chestnut Tree provides a lovely natural spot for a family stroll. Castle Coole, with its extensive grounds, is also a great place for families to explore.
Devenish Island is accessible only by boat. You can take a ferry or water bus across Lower Lough Erne, which is part of the experience, offering beautiful views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
On Devenish Island itself, there are walking trails that allow you to explore its ancient ruins and enjoy scenic picnic spots overlooking the lake. For more extensive options, you can find various hiking routes nearby, including easy and moderate trails. Explore more options on the Hiking around Devenish Island guide.
Yes, there are numerous cycling opportunities. You can find road cycling routes, including moderate to difficult loops like the 'Boa Island loop' or 'View of Enniskillen Castle loop'. For touring bicycles, options range from moderate to difficult, such as 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail'. Discover more routes on the Road Cycling Routes around Devenish Island guide and the Cycling around Devenish Island guide.
The Devenish Monastic Site, founded in the 6th century by Saint Molaise, is a significant historical and spiritual center. You can explore its well-preserved ruins, including the iconic 12th-century Round Tower, St. Molaise's House, Teampall Mór (The Great Church), and St. Mary's Augustinian Priory. Various intricately carved stone crosses are also scattered throughout the site. For a virtual preview, you can visit virtualvisittours.com.
The island's tranquil environment and natural beauty are best enjoyed during milder weather, typically from spring through early autumn. This period offers pleasant conditions for boat trips across Lough Erne and exploring the outdoor monastic site and walking trails.
The journey to Devenish Island across Lower Lough Erne offers stunning natural surroundings and opportunities to spot local wildlife such as herons and otters. The top of the Round Tower on Devenish Island, if accessible, provides panoramic views of the island and the lough.
Enniskillen Castle, built in the 16th century, has a rich history of Irish rebellions and sieges. It now serves as a heritage center and museum, where visitors can learn about the region's past. It's situated directly on the banks of the River Erne.
Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones is notable for its graveyard containing several interesting stones. These include the 'Bishops stone,' a large slab with cup-shaped hollows, and a holed stone, all offering a glimpse into early Christian practices and art.


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