Best attractions and places to see around Mullaghmeen include its expansive forest, the highest point in County Westmeath, and various historical sites. Mullaghmeen Forest is known for its diverse tree species, including the largest planted beech forest in Ireland. The area offers a mix of natural landscapes and cultural points of interest, reflecting its rich history and geology. Visitors can explore ancient woodlands, historical ruins, and unique geological formations like turloughs.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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Along the Beech Trail, you'll discover some of the oldest trees on the estate, including Oak and the sprawling limbs of this Horse Chestnut, forming a natural arch over the path.
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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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Devenish Monastic Site is generally considered to be the most important of Lough Erne's many island church settlements. Devenish was founded in the 6th century by St Molaise. It was raided by Vikings in 837 and burned in 1157, but in the Middle Ages flourished as the site of a parish church and St Mary's Augustinian Priory. There are extensive low earthworks on the hillside, but the earliest buildings are St Molaise's House (a very small church) and the fine round tower close by, both with striking Romanesque decorations from the 12th century. Teampull Mór, the lower church, dates from the early 13th century and has a beautifully moulded south window. It was extended to the east in about 1300, while later additions include a residential wing to the north and the Maguire Chapel to the south, with 17th century heraldic slabs. St Mary's Augustinian Priory on the hilltop dates from the middle 15th and early 16th centuries, with church, tower and small north cloister. In its graveyard stands an unusual, intricately-carved cross of the middle 15th century. - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devenish_Island - https://web.archive.org/web/20120224043140/http://www.culturenorthernireland.org/article.aspx?art_id=746
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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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The magnificent Enniskillen Castle is situated in the heart of Enniskillen on the banks of the River Erne. The castle was founded in the 15th century by Hugh 'The Hospitable' Maguire and belonged to the Maguire family for centuries. Between 2007 and 2013 a massive refurbishment took place so that the castle could be opened to the public. Today you can explore the castle grounds and learn about this landmarks rich history.
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Run past the beautiful Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th century manor house set in a gorgeous 1,200 acre wooded landscape park.
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Castle Coole is one of the most magnificent Neo-classical houses in Ireland set in a 1,200 acre (490 ha) wooded estate. Built in the 18th century, the grand mansion was home to the Earls of Belmore. The 7th Earl Belmore gave the manion to the National Trust in 1951. The house was originally constructed as a summer retreat and cost £57,000, the equivalent of around £20 million today. It is set amongst beautiful parklands dotted with oak, ash and beech trees. Some of the land is given to local farmers to graze their cattle and sheep. You can visit the mansion and its grounds for an insight of how life would once have been for its wealthy inhabitants and their staff. Entrance to the grounds costs £5 per adult.
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Built in the 16th century, Enniskillen Castle has many stories to tell – from Irish rebellions against English rule to sieges and protection from the threat of French invasion. In the 1950s, the castle was decommissioned as an army barracks and opened as a heritage centre. Today, you can visit the museum to learn about the region's history. The castle is open from 9.30am to 5pm (Monday to Friday) and from 11am - 5pm on weekends.
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Mullaghmeen Forest is home to Ireland's largest planted beech forest, offering diverse tree species and vibrant woodland flowers in spring. You can reach the summit of Mullaghmeen, the highest point in County Westmeath at 258 meters (846 feet), for magnificent views north across Lough Sheelin and into County Cavan. The forest also features unique geological formations called turloughs, which are disappearing lakes.
Within Mullaghmeen Forest, you can explore several historical points of interest. Along the White Trail, you'll find relic walls of Famine Fields, poignant reminders of past times. The Red Trail leads to a Booley Hut, a historical summer grazing shelter. You can also discover Flax Pits, which show where flax was once harvested for the linen industry, and a Woodland Arboretum.
Yes, Mullaghmeen Forest offers several family-friendly options. The forest has an extensive network of waymarked trails suitable for various fitness levels, including looped walks and a multi-access trail. One notable natural monument is the Ancient Chestnut Tree, a sprawling Horse Chestnut forming a natural arch over a path, which is popular with families. Designated picnic areas also provide a shady haven for visitors.
Beyond exploring Mullaghmeen Forest, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, including easy trails like 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' or the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole'. For cyclists, there are routes such as 'Derrygonnelly & Boho loop from Enniskillen' or sections of 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide and cycling guide for Mullaghmeen.
The region around Mullaghmeen is rich in history. You can visit Enniskillen Castle, a 16th-century fortress with a museum detailing the region's past. Another significant site is Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, featuring ancient carved stones. Further afield, consider Fore Abbey (a 7th-century monastic ruin), Loughcrew Megalithic Centre (Neolithic burial chambers), or Tullynally Castle (a Georgian estate).
Mullaghmeen Forest is beautiful year-round, but spring is particularly vibrant with displays of woodland flowers, notably bluebells. The diverse tree species, especially the beech forest, also make autumn a stunning time to visit with rich fall colors. Summer offers a shady retreat for walks and picnics, while winter provides a serene, quiet experience.
Yes, Mullaghmeen Forest provides car parks for visitors. These facilities are conveniently located to access the various walking trails and picnic areas within the forest.
Mullaghmeen Forest is generally dog-friendly, offering many trails for you and your canine companion to explore. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially given the presence of diverse wildlife such as badgers, foxes, pheasants, rabbits, and various songbirds in the forest.
Mullaghmeen Forest offers an extensive network of waymarked trails suitable for various fitness levels. You'll find looped walks and a multi-access trail, ranging from easy strolls through the forest to more moderate ascents to the summit of Mullaghmeen. The terrain can vary, but many paths are well-maintained for walking.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical depth. The expansive Mullaghmeen Forest itself is a major draw, with its diverse trees and serene atmosphere. Historical sites like Enniskillen Castle and the ancient stones at Killadeas Priory Church offer fascinating glimpses into the past. The Ancient Chestnut Tree is also a popular natural monument.
Yes, the underlying limestone geology in the southeastern corner of Mullaghmeen Forest reveals turloughs. These are fascinating disappearing lakes that periodically fill and empty without apparent in or outflow, offering a unique natural phenomenon to observe.
While Mullaghmeen Forest offers picnic areas and car parks, specific cafes or dedicated public restrooms might be limited directly within the forest. It's advisable to check for facilities in nearby towns or villages before your visit. For more detailed information on visitor facilities, you can consult the Visit Westmeath website.


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