Attractions and Places To See around Davy'S Island - Top 15
Attractions and places to see around Davy'S Island include a rich blend of Early Christian history, archaeological sites, and natural beauty. Located in Lower Lough Erne, this island is known for its monastic heritage and serves as an important nature reserve. Visitors can explore ancient ruins and discover evidence of prehistoric activity. The island is only accessible by water, with boat trips often available from Castle Archdale Marina.
Best attractions and places to see around Davy'S Island
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Last updated: July 6, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Tully Castle Ruins
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Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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Necarne Castle
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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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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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During WW2 Castle Archdale was a major base for flying boats and housed up to 2,500 people. Buildings such as these would have been a central location for the RAF fighters who lived here. Sometimes exhibitions are held in these courtyards to display some of the key historical notes of the use of this area during the war.
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Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle was built in the 1600s and was the main castle on this former estate before its successor took it's place in the 1800s, Castle Archdale.
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Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop. It is named 'old' to distinguish it from its successor, the 18th century Castle Archdale. The castle was built by an Englishman from Suffolk who had been granted the estate in 1612 after paying 5 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence for the 1000 acres of land. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641 the castle was captured by Rory Maguire as part of the uprising to retake his lands that had been lost in 1607. The heir to the castle was saved by his nurse however the other children were killed. After the castle was returned to the family it was repaired and lived in until 1689. The castle saw its end during the Williamite Wars when the castle was burnt out and abandoned.
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This fortified house is on Tully Point and built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked by John Maguire and burned on Christmas Eve with all its inhabitants massacred. After that it was not lived in again. There is a visitors centre in a restored farmhouse that has an interesting exhibition telling a number of stories relating to the castle. To visit the castle be sure to step off the bike as it is on foot only!
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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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Perched atop a cliff and surrounded by thick forest, it's easy to imagine how life would have been hundreds of years ago as you wander the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale. Built in 1615 by Englishman John Archdale, the castle was captured by the Irish in the Irish Rebellion of 1641. The castle was inhabited until 1689, when it was destroyed by fire and abandoned.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of Davy's Island?
Davy's Island is renowned for its rich Early Christian monastic heritage. It was once home to Lisgoole Abbey, taken over by Augustinian Canons in the 12th century. Archaeological discoveries in 2023 also suggest potential prehistoric activity, indicating its significance predates the Christian era. The island features the ruins of a 12th-century Romanesque church and an almost circular graveyard.
How can I access Davy's Island?
Davy's Island is only accessible by water. Boat trips are typically available, often in conjunction with visits to nearby White Island, and can be arranged from Castle Archdale Marina.
What natural features and wildlife can I expect to see on Davy's Island?
Beyond its historical sites, Davy's Island is an important nature reserve. It provides a habitat for various wildlife, including birds such as Lapwings, Curlews, Snipe, and hosts a unique inland colony of breeding Sandwich Terns. The island is situated in Castle Archdale Bay, offering scenic views of Lough Erne.
Are there other historical castles or ruins to visit near Davy's Island?
Yes, several historical sites are nearby. You can explore Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle built on a forest clifftop, which was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed. Another option is Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house and bawn built for Sir John Hume, which was attacked and burned in 1641. Also, consider Necarne Castle, a historical site that served as a military hospital during WWII.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Davy's Island?
The area around Davy's Island offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, including the 'Boa Island and Pettigo loop from Old Castle Archdale', and touring bicycle routes like the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop'. For hikers, there are easy trails such as 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. You can find more details on these activities on the respective guide pages for road cycling, general cycling, and hiking around Davy's Island.
Are there any family-friendly attractions near Davy's Island?
Yes, Tully Castle Ruins is considered family-friendly and offers a visitor's centre with an exhibition telling local stories. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, which were a major base during WWII, are also family-friendly and sometimes host exhibitions.
What is the Lough Erne Pilgrim Way and is Davy's Island part of it?
The Lough Erne Pilgrim Way is an initiative designed to raise awareness of the history and heritage of the former island monasteries in the region. Davy's Island, with its significant Early Christian monastic site, is indeed an important part of this broader pilgrim route.
What are the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones?
The Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones are located in a graveyard featuring several interesting stones. These include the 'Bishops stone', a large slab with cup-shaped hollows suggesting it was a bullaun stone reused as an early Christian cross slab, and a holed stone. These artifacts offer a glimpse into the region's ancient religious practices.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Davy's Island?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. Exploring ancient ruins like Old Castle Archdale allows them to imagine life centuries ago, while the natural reserve aspect of Davy's Island itself offers opportunities for wildlife spotting. The komoot community has shared more than 13 photos and given over 12 upvotes, highlighting the visual appeal and historical interest of the area.
Are there any amenities or facilities near Davy's Island, such as cafes or accommodation?
While Davy's Island itself is a nature reserve and historical site with limited facilities, the nearby Castle Archdale Marina, from where boat trips depart, is part of Castle Archdale Country Park. This wider area typically offers amenities such as cafes, pubs, and accommodation options, providing a convenient base for exploring the region.
Can I find easy hiking trails near Davy's Island?
Yes, there are several easy hiking trails in the vicinity. For example, you can enjoy the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' trail, 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle', or the 'Castle Archdale loop', all rated as easy. More details on these and other hiking options can be found on the hiking guide page for the area.
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