Attractions and places to see around Dromore Big feature a landscape rich in ancient history, religious significance, and natural beauty. The area is characterized by its historical sites, including stone circles and church ruins, alongside scenic viewpoints and lake environments. Visitors can explore a region that blends cultural heritage with diverse natural features, offering insights into past civilizations and picturesque vistas. This makes Dromore Big a destination for those interested in historical exploration and natural landscapes.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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From here over the Lough you can see St Patrick's Purgatory which is an ancient pilgrimage site that is suggested to have not been interrupted for fifteen hundred years, with it continuing in the present day. Its importance in medieval times is clear due to its present on maps all over Europe as early as the 15th century. It was the only Irish site designated on Martin Behaim's world map of 1492.
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It is thought that a church has been sited here since the 6th century. Little is known about St Caireall, but the ruined church was definitely present in 1399 as it was recorded in Archbishop Colton's Visitation of the Derry Diocese. Just up the road is a white painted, tumbling down schoolhouse. It is believed to be built with stones from the church.
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Boa Island is the largest island on Lough Erne. The road cuts through its centre with views of Lusty Beg, Lusty More and Cruninish Islands.
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From here over the Lough you can see St Patrick's Purgatory which is an ancient pilgrimage site that is suggested to have not been interrupted for fifteen hundred years, with it continuing in the present day. Its importance in medieval times is clear due to its present on maps all over Europe as early as the 15th century. It was the only Irish site designated on Martin Behaim's world map of 1492.
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Drumskinny Stone Circle is one of five in the area. It dates back to 2000BC and is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions or astronomical observations. There are 39 stones that make up the circle which are all placed around a small cairn.
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Drumskinny Stone Circle is one of five stone circles located in the area. Although its exact purpose isn't known, it is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions, or astronomical observations. The circle is made up of 39 stones placed around a small round cairn. Entrance to the site is free.
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The area around Dromore Big is rich in history. You can visit the ancient Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment, which dates back to 2000 BC and is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies or astronomical observations. Also, explore the ruins of St Caireall’s Church, believed to have been a church site since the 6th century. Further afield, depending on the specific Dromore location, you might find sites like Dromore Motte and Bailey in County Down, or the remains of O'Brien Castle within Dromore Wood Nature Reserve in County Clare.
Yes, a prominent religious site is St Patrick's Purgatory, an ancient pilgrimage site visible across Lough Erne. It has a history of continuous pilgrimage for over fifteen hundred years and was noted on 15th-century maps. Additionally, the ruins of St Caireall’s Church suggest a long religious history in the immediate vicinity.
For stunning views, drive along Boa Island Road, which cuts through the largest island on Lough Erne, offering perspectives of Lusty Beg, Lusty More, and Cruninish Islands. The wider region also boasts diverse natural landscapes, such as the River Lagan valley near Dromore, County Down, and the extensive Dromore Wood Nature Reserve in County Clare, which features a river, lakes, turloughs, and varied woodland.
Absolutely! The Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is a fascinating historical site that can spark curiosity in all ages. Driving along Boa Island Road offers scenic lake views that families can enjoy together. In Dromore, County Down, Dromore Town Park features a play park for children and a custom-made pump track for cyclists.
There are several cycling opportunities around Dromore Big. For road cycling, you can find routes like the 'Enniskillen Castle – Enniskillen Castle loop' or shorter 'Roadbike loop from Pettigo'. If you prefer touring, consider 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail from Enniskillen' or a 'Boa Island Road loop from Kesh'. You can explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes around Dromore Big and Cycling around Dromore Big guide pages.
Yes, there are various options for walking and hiking. Dromore Town Park in County Down offers tranquil walks along the River Lagan. In County Sligo, the Aughris Cliff Walk provides scenic outdoor activity. For nature enthusiasts, Dromore Wood Nature Reserve in County Clare features two self-guided nature trails, each taking about an hour, and a section of the 140km Mid-Clare Way also passes through the reserve.
The best time to visit Dromore Big and its surrounding attractions is generally during the spring (April-May) and summer (June-August) months. The weather is typically milder and drier, making it ideal for exploring historical sites, enjoying scenic viewpoints, and engaging in outdoor activities like cycling and walking. Autumn (September-October) can also be pleasant with beautiful foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable.
Yes, particularly in areas like Dromore Wood Nature Reserve in County Clare. This reserve is a haven for biodiversity, with diverse habitats including woodlands, lakes, and turloughs, supporting a rich variety of plant and animal life. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching and observing local flora and fauna.
Beyond the immediate Dromore Big area, the broader Dromore regions offer several castle ruins. In County Limerick, you can find the iconic Dromore Castle, a Gothic Revival style ruin. Within Dromore Wood Nature Reserve in County Clare, there are remains of a 17th-century O'Brien Castle, as well as Cahermacrea Castle. Dromore Motte and Bailey in County Down is also a well-preserved Anglo-Norman castle site.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of ancient history and natural beauty. The sense of stepping back in time at sites like the Drumskinny Stone Circle and the historical significance of St Patrick's Purgatory are highly valued. The scenic vistas from places like Boa Island Road, offering expansive lake views, are also a major draw for those seeking picturesque landscapes.
Yes, Dromore Town Park in County Down offers tranquil walks along the River Lagan. Additionally, Dromore Wood Nature Reserve in County Clare provides a peaceful setting with its self-guided nature trails through diverse habitats, perfect for a quiet stroll amidst nature.


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