Attractions and Places To See around Gortleet - Top 8
Best attractions and places to see around Gortleet, a residential area within Letterkenny, County Donegal, Ireland, include historical sites, natural landscapes, and viewpoints. While Gortleet itself is primarily residential, its location provides access to various points of interest in the surrounding region. Visitors can explore a mix of historical ruins, expansive estates, and scenic loughs. The area offers opportunities to discover local heritage and natural habitats.
Best attractions and places to see around Gortleet
- The most popular attractions is Old…
Last updated: July 6, 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
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Wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels and many rare …
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Carnmore Lough
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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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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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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
Where is Gortleet located, and what kind of area is it?
Gortleet is a residential area and road within Letterkenny, County Donegal, Ireland. While Gortleet itself is primarily residential, its location provides convenient access to various historical sites, natural landscapes, and scenic loughs in the surrounding region.
What natural features and scenic viewpoints can I explore near Gortleet?
You can discover several natural features and viewpoints. Carnmore Lough offers a scenic view in a wild part of Northern Ireland, set against a backdrop of coniferous forest. The areas around Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are also significant nature conservation sites with woodlands, lakes, and diverse wildlife.
Are there any historical landmarks or sites to visit near Gortleet?
Yes, the region offers several historical sites. You can visit Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century, and the nearby Clones Round Tower, originally built around the 10th century. Additionally, the ruins of Old Crom Castle and Crom Estate Castle Ruins provide a glimpse into the area's past.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Gortleet?
Many attractions near Gortleet are suitable for families. Both Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are tagged as family-friendly, offering expansive natural areas to explore. Clones 'Wee' Abbey, with its historical significance and interesting graveyard, can also be an engaging visit for families.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Gortleet offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking, running, and cycling routes. For hiking, explore trails like the Crom Estate Trail or the Old Crom Castle Ruins loop. Running enthusiasts can find routes such as the Old Crom Castle (Ruins) loop. Cyclists can tackle longer routes like the Kingfisher Cycle Trail or The Crom Estate & Newtownbutler loop. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, running guide, and cycling guide for Gortleet.
Are there hiking trails near the attractions around Gortleet?
Yes, there are several hiking trails available. For example, near the Crom Estate, you can find easy routes like the Crom Estate Trail, or loops connecting Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins. These trails offer opportunities to explore the natural beauty and historical sites of the area. More hiking options are detailed in the Hiking around Gortleet guide.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see at Crom Estate?
Crom Estate is a significant nature conservation area. It is home to wild deer, pine marten, and red squirrels. You might also spot rare species of butterflies, all eight species of native bats, and an outstanding array of rare lichens within its 2,000-acre demesne.
What is the best time to visit the attractions around Gortleet?
The best time to visit the attractions around Gortleet, particularly for outdoor activities and enjoying the natural landscapes, is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This allows for comfortable exploration of historical sites and natural reserves.
Are there any facilities like cafes or shops near the attractions?
At Crom Estate Castle Ruins, which is managed by the National Trust, there is a coffee shop available. For broader amenities, the nearby town of Letterkenny, where Gortleet is located, offers various shops, cafes, and accommodation options.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Gortleet?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The ancient ruins like Clones 'Wee' Abbey and the expansive, wildlife-rich landscapes of Crom Estate are frequently highlighted. The scenic viewpoints, such as Carnmore Lough, are also popular for their tranquil and wild settings.
Can I hire a boat to explore the lough at Crom Estate?
Yes, if you're looking for a different way to experience the area, you can hire a boat to explore the lough at Crom Estate. This offers a unique perspective of the estate's islands and natural surroundings.
Is there public transport available to reach attractions from Gortleet?
While Gortleet is a residential area within Letterkenny, public transport options within County Donegal and to specific attractions may vary. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider driving for more direct access to some of the more remote historical sites and natural parks in the surrounding region.
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