Attractions and Places To See around Kilready - Top 4
Best attractions and places to see around Kilready include a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural landmarks. The region offers opportunities to explore ancient ruins, tranquil lake shores, and significant historical monuments. With 4 notable places to visit, Kilready provides diverse points of interest for those exploring its heritage and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Kilready
- The most popular attraction is Old Crom Castle Ruins, a viewpoint set on the shores of Upper…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
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Old Crom Castle Ruins
Highlight • Viewpoint
Wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels and many rare …
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Crom Estate Castle Ruins
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Clones Round Tower
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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 in Kilready?
Kilready is rich in history. You can explore the ancient Old Crom Castle Ruins, a significant historical site set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne. Another notable historical location is Crom Estate Castle Ruins, a large nature reserve with woodlands and castle ruins. Don't miss Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery from the 12th century, and the nearby Clones Round Tower, which dates back to the 10th century.
Where can I experience nature and wildlife in Kilready?
For nature and wildlife, the Old Crom Castle Ruins area on Upper Lough Erne is a vital conservation site, home to wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels, and rare butterflies. Similarly, Crom Estate Castle Ruins is a large nature reserve with diverse wildlife, woodlands, and a lake, managed by the National Trust.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Kilready?
Yes, several attractions in Kilready are suitable for families. Both Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are considered family-friendly, offering space to explore historical sites and natural landscapes. Clones 'Wee' Abbey also welcomes families to explore its ruins and interesting graveyard. The Crom Castle Boathouse provides a lovely spot for a family picnic by Lough Erne.
What outdoor activities can I do near Kilready's attractions?
Kilready offers various outdoor activities. You can find several cycling routes, including the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail' and loops around the Crom Estate. For road cycling, there are routes like the 'Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop'. Running enthusiasts can explore trails such as the 'Old Crom Castle (Ruins) loop' and 'Castle Saunderson Demesne loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Kilready, Road Cycling Routes around Kilready, and Running Trails around Kilready guides.
Are there any lake-based activities or viewpoints in Kilready?
Absolutely. The region is characterized by Lough Erne. The Old Crom Castle Ruins offer a stunning viewpoint directly on the shores of Upper Lough Erne. The Crom Castle Boathouse also provides splendid views out onto the water, perfect for relaxation. At Crom Estate Castle Ruins, you can even hire a boat to explore the lough.
What are the access details for Clones 'Wee' Abbey and Clones Round Tower?
Clones 'Wee' Abbey is free to visit and accessible at any time, allowing you to explore its crumbling walls and graveyard. The Clones Round Tower is located within St Tierney's graveyard, which is also open for exploration, featuring many 17th and 18th-century gravestones.
Are there facilities like coffee shops near the Crom Estate attractions?
Yes, at the Crom Estate Castle Ruins, there is a coffee shop available for visitors. This provides a convenient spot to relax and refuel during your visit to the estate.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Kilready?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of history and nature. The tranquil settings of the Crom Estate, with its ancient woodlands and lakeside views, are highly valued. The historical significance of sites like Clones 'Wee' Abbey and Clones Round Tower, offering glimpses into centuries past, also receive positive feedback. The opportunity to see diverse wildlife, such as deer and rare butterflies, adds to the appeal of the natural areas.
Can I explore the Crom Estate by boat?
Yes, at the Crom Estate Castle Ruins, you have the option to hire a boat to explore Lough Erne, offering a unique perspective of the estate and its surrounding islands.
Are there any lesser-known historical spots in Kilready?
While the main attractions are well-known, the detailed history of sites like Clones 'Wee' Abbey, with its multiple destructions and rebuilds, and the story behind the 10th-century Clones Round Tower and its surrounding St Tierney's graveyard, offer deeper historical insights that might be considered lesser-known aspects for many visitors.
What kind of wildlife can be found at the Crom Estate?
The Crom Estate is a haven for wildlife. You can spot wild deer, pine marten, and red squirrels. It's also home to many rare species, including various butterflies and all eight species of native bats. The estate's ancient woodlands and natural habitats support an outstanding array of rare lichens as well.
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