Attractions and Places To See around Bigwood Or Drumkeeran - Top 12

The area is rich in history. You can explore the ancient Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, which are pre-Christian, Iron Age stone figures located in a small graveyard. Another significant site is Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle ruin perched on a forest clifftop. Don't miss the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment, a 4,000-year-old site believed to have been used for ceremonies or astronomical observations. Additionally, the Drumkeeran Heritage Centre offers a glimpse into the area's past with a reconstructed Irish cottage and farmyard, and Creevelea Friary is also nearby.

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment offers an engaging historical experience with free entry. Rossmore Point Beacon provides serene lake views with a bench, perfect for a relaxing family stop. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, a former WWII flying boat base, sometimes host exhibitions that can be interesting for all ages. The Drumkeeran Heritage Centre also features a craft shop and coffee shop, making it a pleasant outing for families.

The region boasts beautiful natural landscapes. You can visit Rossmore Point Beacon for tranquil views over Lough Erne. Drumkeeran itself is situated near Lough Allen, offering scenic drives and opportunities for water sports. The village also lies at the foot of Corry Mountain, and Glencar Lake and Waterfall are recommended natural attractions nearby. The area is characterized by extensive forest plantations managed by Coillte, providing lush green scenery.

The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. Lough Allen supports water sports such as angling and swimming. At the marina near Castle Archdale, you can enjoy hydrobiking, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat rentals. For land-based activities, there are opportunities for golfing, riding, walking, and cycling. You can find numerous cycling routes, including those for touring and road cycling, around the region. Explore options like 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail' or 'Boa Island Road loop' by visiting the Cycling around Bigwood Or Drumkeeran guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Bigwood Or Drumkeeran guide.

Yes, the region offers various walking and hiking opportunities, especially around its forested areas and natural features. Old Castle Archdale is located within a 520-hectare forest, providing trails to explore its historical ruins. Corry Mountain also offers walking trails. While specific hiking routes are not detailed for every attraction, the general area around Drumkeeran and its forest plantations are well-suited for walks. You can find more detailed routes in the komoot guides for the region.

The Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery are unique pre-Christian, likely Iron Age, stone figures. They are approximately 70 cm high and stand among modern graves in the isolated Caldragh graveyard. Both figures were originally Janus-faced, meaning they had a face on both the front and back. The simpler figure is more damaged, and it is believed to represent a Celtic cernunnos-like god of vegetation and fertility.

Old Castle Archdale was built in 1615 by Englishman John Archdale on a forest clifftop. It was the main castle on the estate before its 18th-century successor. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641, the castle was captured by Rory Maguire. It was inhabited until 1689 when it was burnt out during the Williamite Wars and subsequently abandoned. The ruins offer a tangible link to 17th-century Irish history.

Yes, entrance to the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is free. This historical site dates back to 2000 BC and features 39 stones arranged around a small cairn, making it an accessible and intriguing visit for those interested in ancient history.

The Drumkeeran Heritage Centre is a cultural site that celebrates the area's history. It features a beautifully reconstructed Irish cottage and farmyard, including a traditional sweat house, pigsty, and old-style garden. Visitors can explore agricultural machinery and artifacts, and there's also a craft shop, coffee shop, and a resource center available.

Rossmore Point Beacon is a scenic viewpoint marked by a distinctive white beacon. It offers serene and expansive views over Lough Erne. There is a bench available, making it an ideal spot to relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy the tranquility of the lake.

Yes, the Bigwood Or Drumkeeran area is popular for cycling. You can find routes like 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail from Enniskillen' (a difficult touring bicycle route) or 'Boa Island Road loop from Kesh' (a moderate touring route). For road cycling, options include 'Boa island to Lough Derg and back' (an easy route). More details and additional routes can be found in the Cycling around Bigwood Or Drumkeeran and Road Cycling Routes around Bigwood Or Drumkeeran guides.