Attractions and Places To See around Kilroot - Top 4
Attractions and places to see around Kilroot include a mix of historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. The area, situated on the north shore of Belfast Lough, offers insights into its deep historical and religious roots. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, scenic viewpoints, and significant historical locations. The surrounding region provides access to diverse landscapes, from coastal views to nature reserves.
Best attractions and places to see around Kilroot
- The most popular attractions is Old Crom Castle Ruins,…
Last updated: June 24, 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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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 are there to explore around Kilroot?
The area around Kilroot is rich in history. You can visit the ancient ruins of Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a monastery dating back to the 12th century, and the nearby Clones Round Tower. Further afield, explore the impressive 12th-century Carrickfergus Castle, or the 20th-century Grey Point Fort, which played a role in both World Wars. Closer to Kilroot, you can find the ruins of Kilroot House and its ancient graveyard, an early Christian site.
Are there any natural beauty spots or viewpoints near Kilroot?
Yes, the region offers several scenic spots. You can enjoy panoramic views of Belfast Lough from various elevated points, such as the climb up Creighton's Green Road. The Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are set within a significant nature conservation area on the shores of Upper Lough Erne, offering tranquil islands and ancient woodlands. Helen's Bay Beach, within Crawfordsburn Country Park, provides beautiful sandy shores and views across Belfast Lough.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the attractions?
The area around Kilroot offers various outdoor activities, particularly cycling and running. For cycling, you can find routes like the Kingfisher Cycle Trail or loops around Crom Estate. Road cyclists can explore routes such as the Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop. Runners have options like the Old Crom Castle (Ruins) loop or trails around Dummys Lough. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Kilroot, Road Cycling Routes around Kilroot, and Running Trails around Kilroot guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Kilroot area?
Many attractions around Kilroot are suitable for families. The Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are located within a nature reserve, perfect for exploring woodlands, lakes, and spotting wildlife like deer and red squirrels. The Crom Castle Boathouse offers splendid views and is a great spot for a picnic. Helen's Bay Beach is also a popular family destination for swimming and walks.
What is the significance of Kilroot House and its graveyard?
Kilroot House, though largely a ruin, is historically significant as it once housed figures like Jonathan Swift. Its adjoining graveyard contains an ancient bullaun stone, believed to be an early Christian baptismal font, making it one of the oldest Christian sites in the Belfast Lough area. You can learn more about its history on Atlas Obscura.
Can I explore ancient ruins and religious sites near Kilroot?
Absolutely. You can visit the crumbling walls and ancient graveyard of Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery with roots dating back to the 6th century. Nearby, the Clones Round Tower, originally part of the abbey, stands as a prominent historical landmark. Kilroot itself has an ancient ecclesiastical site with a graveyard and the ruins of Kilroot House.
What wildlife can I expect to see at Crom Estate?
Crom Estate is a significant nature conservation area. Visitors can spot wild deer, pine martens, red squirrels, and various rare species of butterflies. The surrounding area is also home to all eight species of native bats and an outstanding array of rare lichens, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Is there industrial heritage to see in Kilroot?
Yes, Kilroot is home to the Kilroot Power Station, a significant industrial landmark on the north shore of Belfast Lough. It has a notable history, having once been Northern Ireland's last remaining coal-fired power station before converting to gas. The area also has an extensive network of rock salt (halite) mines stretching approximately 30 miles beneath Kilroot and nearby areas.
What are the best places for scenic walks near Kilroot?
For scenic walks, consider Crawfordsburn Country Park, which includes Helen's Bay Beach and offers wooded headlands and meadows. The Crom Estate provides beautiful walks through ancient woodlands and along the tranquil shores of Upper Lough Erne. For a more adventurous experience, The Gobbins Coastal Walk, though a bit further, offers an extraordinary cliff-face journey with unique views.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Kilroot?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical depth and natural beauty of the area. The ancient ruins like Clones 'Wee' Abbey and the well-preserved Carrickfergus Castle offer fascinating glimpses into the past. The tranquil landscapes of Crom Estate, with its wildlife and lake views from spots like the Crom Castle Boathouse, are also highly valued for relaxation and nature observation.
Are there any specific viewpoints that offer great photographic opportunities?
Yes, the Old Crom Castle Ruins, set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne, provide picturesque views, especially with the ancient castle and tranquil waters. The Crom Castle Boathouse also offers splendid views out onto the lough. Additionally, various elevated points around Kilroot, such as those found on the climb up Creighton's Green Road, offer brilliant panoramic views of Belfast Lough.
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