Best attractions and places to see around Drumreane include a mix of historical sites and natural features within County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. The region is characterized by its rich history, featuring ancient castles and monastic ruins. Visitors can explore significant landmarks and enjoy the diverse landscapes that define this area. Drumreane offers opportunities to discover both cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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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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The Drumreane area is rich in history. You can visit Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle set on a forest clifftop, which played a role in the Irish Rebellion of 1641. Another significant site is Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house and bawn from the same period, known for its plantation-style architecture. Don't miss Necarne Castle, which served as a military hospital during WWII, offering a glimpse into more recent history. Additionally, the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones provide insight into ancient religious heritage.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Tully Castle Ruins offers a visitor's centre with exhibitions telling local stories, and the grounds are interesting for exploration. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, part of the wider Castle Archdale estate, sometimes host exhibitions detailing the area's history during WWII, which can be engaging for all ages. The broader County Fermanagh also features places like Florence Court and Crom Estate with extensive parklands for families to enjoy.
The region around Drumreane is known for its stunning natural beauty. While Drumreane itself is a townland, the surrounding County Fermanagh is dominated by the vast network of Lough Erne, perfect for water activities. You can also explore the Marble Arch Caves, one of Europe's finest show caves with fascinating underground formations, or hike the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven) for panoramic views. Lough Navar Forest also offers diverse landscapes for nature enthusiasts.
There are various walking and hiking trails to suit different abilities. For instance, you can find routes like the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' which is an easy 4.6 km hike, or the 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' which is an easy 5.2 km trail. For more options, including moderate and difficult routes, you can explore the dedicated Hiking around Drumreane guide.
Yes, several easy walking trails are perfect for beginners. Examples include the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' (4.6 km) and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' (5.2 km). The 'Castle Archdale loop' (4.2 km) and 'Castle Archdale Marina – Rossmore Point Beacon loop from White Island' (3.6 km) are also considered easy. These trails offer accessible ways to enjoy the local scenery. Find more details in the Hiking around Drumreane guide.
Beyond exploring historical sites, the area offers a range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop' (16 km) or 'Necarne Castle (Castle Irvine) – Necarne Castle loop' (11.7 km). Cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' (18.6 km). For more detailed information on routes and sports, check out the Running Trails around Drumreane and Cycling around Drumreane guides.
The best time to visit Drumreane for outdoor activities generally aligns with the milder, drier months. Spring (April-May) and Summer (June-August) offer the most pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and exploring the natural features and historical sites. Autumn (September-October) can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though the weather can be more unpredictable. Always check local forecasts before your visit.
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and nature. For example, at Old Castle Archdale, people enjoy imagining life centuries ago while wandering the crumbling walls amidst thick forest. At Tully Castle Ruins, the visitor's centre and the dramatic history of the site are often highlighted. The area's historical castles, ancient ruins, and significant cultural sites are highly valued by the komoot community, with many upvotes and photos shared.
Yes, County Fermanagh offers several unique cultural experiences. You could visit the Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre to see traditional pottery making, or explore the Janus Figure on Boa Island, which features remarkable ancient stone carvings. The Boatyard Distillery on Lough Erne also offers guided experiences and tastings of handcrafted gin, providing a different cultural insight into the region.
For wildlife spotting, the Crom Estate, located on the shores of Upper Lough Erne, is an excellent choice. It's a significant nature conservation area spanning 2,000 acres, home to an abundance of wildlife. Additionally, Castle Archdale Forest features wildfowl ponds and a butterfly garden, offering further opportunities to observe local fauna.
While specific parking details for every attraction are not always listed, many historical sites and natural parks in County Fermanagh, such as Castle Archdale and Necarne Castle, typically offer visitor parking. For example, Necarne Castle has free parking available. It's always advisable to check the specific attraction's website or local signage upon arrival for the most accurate parking information.
Trail lengths around Drumreane vary significantly, catering to different preferences. Easy walks can be as short as 3.6 km, like the 'Castle Archdale Marina – Rossmore Point Beacon loop'. Moderate trails range from about 7 km to 12 km, such as the 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Castle Archdale Marina loop' or the 'Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop'. Longer, more difficult routes can extend up to 16 km or more. You can find detailed distances for various activities in the Hiking around Drumreane, Running Trails around Drumreane, and Cycling around Drumreane guides.


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