Attractions and Places To See around Drumralla - Top 5

Drumralla is rich in history. You can explore the ancient ruins of Old Crom Castle Ruins, located within a 2,000-acre demesne on Upper Lough Erne. Another significant historical site is Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century, which is free to visit and features an interesting graveyard. Additionally, the Clones Round Tower, originally built around the 10th century, is a prominent historical landmark.

Yes, the area offers beautiful natural landscapes and viewpoints. The Old Crom Castle Ruins provide scenic views over Upper Lough Erne. You can also visit the Crom Estate Castle Ruins, which is part of a large nature reserve with woodlands and a lake. For stunning lake views, the Crom Castle Boathouse offers a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Crom Estate is an important nature conservation area. It is home to wild deer, pine martens, red squirrels, and many rare species of butterflies. All eight species of native bats can also be found here, along with an outstanding array of rare lichens. The estate's ancient woodlands and tranquil islands provide a rich habitat for this diverse wildlife.

Many attractions around Drumralla are suitable for families. Both the Old Crom Castle Ruins and the Crom Estate Castle Ruins are family-friendly, offering space to explore historical sites and natural surroundings. The Clones 'Wee' Abbey is also a fascinating historical stop for all ages, and the Crom Castle Boathouse is a great spot for a family picnic by the lake.

Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. The Crom Estate offers trails like the easy-rated Crom Estate Trail. You can find more details and other routes, including loops around the Old Crom Castle Ruins and the Crom Castle Boathouse, in the Hiking around Drumralla guide.

For those interested in running, Drumralla offers several trails. You can find routes such as the moderate Old Crom Castle (Ruins) loop or the Dummys Lough loop. Explore more options in the Running Trails around Drumralla guide.

Road cycling enthusiasts can find various routes around Drumralla. Options include the easy Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop from Clones, or the Clones Round Tower – Clones 'Wee' Abbey loop. For more detailed information and other routes, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Drumralla guide.

Known locally as the "Wee Abbey," Clones 'Wee' Abbey is a ruined monastery with a long history. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century, though it was destroyed by fire multiple times. It suffered further during the suppression of monasteries in the 16th century and lay in ruin by the 17th century, though solitary monks resided there until the 18th century. Today, visitors can explore its crumbling walls and the surrounding graveyard.

Yes, the Crom Estate, which includes the Crom Estate Castle Ruins, has a coffee shop on site. This provides a convenient spot for visitors to refresh themselves while exploring the nature reserve.

Yes, if you're looking for a different way to experience the lough, you can hire a boat at Crom Estate to explore Upper Lough Erne. This offers a unique perspective of the area's natural beauty and islands.

The Clones Round Tower, originally part of the abbey, was built around the 10th century. Although its top section is now missing, it remains a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. It once stood at 75 feet and had four storeys, including a bell storey. The surrounding St Tierney's graveyard also contains interesting 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.

Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The tranquil setting of the Crom Estate, with its ancient woodlands and lake views, is highly valued. The historical insights offered by sites like Clones 'Wee' Abbey and the Clones Round Tower also provide a rich cultural experience. The opportunity to explore castle ruins and enjoy scenic viewpoints like the Crom Castle Boathouse are frequently highlighted.