Attractions and places to see around Lissan are primarily centered near the historic Lissan House estate, situated at the foot of the Sperrin Mountains in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. The region features a blend of historical sites, ancient woodlands, and natural landscapes. Visitors can explore a 17th-century country residence, forest trails, and riverside walks along the Lissan Water. The area offers opportunities to experience both cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Last updated: June 23, 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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Beyond Lissan House itself, which dates back to the 17th century and offers insights into the Staples family history, you can visit several other significant historical sites. These include Enniskillen Castle, a 16th-century fortress with a rich past, and Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th-century neoclassical mansion set in extensive parklands. For ancient ecclesiastical history, explore Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, known for its unique historical grave markers, or the Devenish Monastic Site, founded in the 6th century.
Yes, the Lissan House estate spans 260-267 acres of ancient woodland and forestry, offering beautiful forest and riverside walks along the Lissan Water. You can discover the Ancient Chestnut Tree, which forms a natural arch over the path on the Beech Trail. In late spring, the forest floor is covered in bluebells, and wildflower meadows add vibrant color in summer. The estate also features an Ice House and a Turbine House.
The area around Lissan offers various outdoor activities, particularly hiking and running. You can find numerous routes, including easy hikes like the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole' (4.7 km) or the 'Enniskillen Castle loop from Enniskillen' (3.9 km). For running, there are moderate trails such as the 'Castle Coole – Lough Coole loop' (9.1 km). You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for hiking around Lissan and running trails around Lissan.
Absolutely. Lissan House offers several family-friendly activities. Children can enjoy a teddy bear treasure hunt within the historic house and explore a challenging adventure playground on the estate. There's also the Lissan Legends Trail, a family-friendly route where visitors can discover clues and solve puzzles while exploring the wildflower meadow and owl sanctuary.
The grounds and gardens of Lissan House are generally open year-round, making them suitable for walks in any season. The house itself is typically open from Easter to mid-September on weekends, and Thursday to Sunday in July and August. For outdoor activities, late spring (for bluebells) and summer (for wildflower meadows and warmer weather) are particularly scenic.
While specific accessibility details for all attractions vary, Lissan House and its estate offer various paths of differing length and difficulty, some of which may be suitable for easier access. For detailed information on specific accessibility features, it's recommended to check directly with the individual attractions or their official websites, such as Visit Mid Ulster's Lissan House page.
Lissan House itself has a tea room available for refreshments, perfect for a break during your visit to the estate. For other options, you'll find cafes and pubs in nearby towns, offering a chance to relax and refuel after exploring the attractions.
The Lissan House estate grounds and trails are generally dog-friendly, allowing visitors to enjoy walks with their canine companions. However, it's always best to check for any specific restrictions or leash requirements on their official website before your visit.
Lissan House provides parking facilities for visitors to the estate. Specific details regarding parking locations, fees (if any), or capacity can typically be found on the official Lissan House website or by contacting them directly.
Lissan House is ideally located at the foot of the Sperrin Mountains, providing a scenic backdrop to the estate. While the estate itself offers woodland and riverside walks, the proximity to the Sperrins means visitors are close to a larger area of natural beauty, offering further opportunities for scenic drives and more challenging outdoor adventures.
Yes, guided tours of Lissan House are available, particularly during the summer months. These tours offer a deeper dive into the estate's history and the lives of the Staples family, providing context to the original furnishings and interactive exhibits within the house. It's advisable to check their schedule in advance.
One notable natural monument is the Ancient Chestnut Tree, located along the Beech Trail within the Lissan House estate. This Horse Chestnut is one of the oldest trees on the estate and forms a distinctive natural arch over the path, showcasing the area's ancient woodland heritage.


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