Attractions and Places To See around Castle Island - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see around Castle Island include historical sites, ancient trees, and grand estates. This region, centered around Enniskillen, Northern Ireland, offers a blend of rich history and natural landscapes. Visitors can explore centuries-old castles and monastic ruins, alongside serene forests and parklands. The area provides opportunities to delve into local heritage and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Fermanagh Lakelands.
Best attractions and places to see around Castle Island
- The most popular attractions is Enniskillen Castle…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
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Ancient Chestnut Tree
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Castle Coole
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Devenish Monastic Site
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Devenish Island Round Tower
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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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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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Founded by Saint Laisrén mac Nad Froích (aka St Molaise) in the 6th century, the monastic site was built on a pilgrimage route to Croagh Patrick. As you view the Island from Trory Pier you can see the 25 metre tall 12th century round tower standing majestically above the ruined buildings. The tower has wooden floors and can be climbed by the public via a series of ladders. The tower is decorated with 12th century romanesque features, the most unusual feature is a beaded cornice running around the top of tower with head sculpture featured above the bell-storey windows. - http://www.megalithicireland.com/Devenish%20Round%20Tower.html - https://archive.ph/20121224010315/http://www.ni-environment.gov.uk/places/monuments/devenish.shtml#selection-1091.0-1091.30
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Castle Island?
The region around Castle Island, centered in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland, is rich in history. You can visit Enniskillen Castle, a 16th-century fortress on the River Erne that now serves as a heritage center. Another significant site is Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th-century neoclassical mansion set within a vast wooded estate. For ancient monastic history, explore the Devenish Monastic Site, founded in the 6th century, featuring a well-preserved round tower and church ruins.
Are there any natural attractions or unique trees to see?
Yes, the area boasts natural beauty. A notable natural monument is the Ancient Chestnut Tree, one of the oldest trees on the Castle Coole estate. It forms a natural arch over the path along the Beech Trail, offering a picturesque spot for visitors.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, running, and hiking. For cycling, explore routes like the 'Derrygonnelly & Boho loop' or 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail' from Enniskillen. Running enthusiasts can enjoy loops around Lough Coole and Castle Coole, or the 'Enniskillen and Portora Castle running loop'. Hiking options include easy loops like the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop' from Castle Coole. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for cycling, running, and hiking around Castle Island.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Castle Island?
Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle offers an engaging historical experience for all ages. The expansive grounds of Castle Coole, with its wooded parklands and opportunities for walks, are also family-friendly. Additionally, the Ancient Chestnut Tree on the Beech Trail provides a lovely natural spot for families to explore.
What is the significance of the Devenish Monastic Site?
The Devenish Monastic Site is considered one of the most important island church settlements on Lough Erne. Founded by St Molaise in the 6th century, it features a remarkable 12th-century round tower that can be climbed, offering insights into early Christian Ireland. The site also includes ruins of St Molaise's House, Teampull Mór (the lower church), and St Mary's Augustinian Priory, showcasing centuries of religious history.
How long does it take to explore the Castle Coole estate?
The Castle Coole estate spans 1,200 acres, offering various walking paths. A run around Lough Coole and Castle Coole can take about 7.5 km, while a shorter hike like the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop' is around 4.7 km. You can spend anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day exploring the mansion, its gardens, and the extensive wooded parklands, depending on your interest and chosen route.
Can I visit the interior of Enniskillen Castle?
Yes, Enniskillen Castle has been decommissioned as an army barracks and now operates as a heritage center. Visitors can explore the museum to learn about the region's history, including Irish rebellions and sieges. It is generally open from 9:30 am to 5 pm on weekdays and from 11 am to 5 pm on weekends.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Castle Island?
Visitors frequently appreciate the rich history and natural beauty of the area. The historical depth of sites like Enniskillen Castle and Castle Coole, along with the serene landscapes and ancient trees, are often highlighted. The opportunity to delve into local heritage and enjoy scenic walks in places like the Castle Coole estate is also a major draw.
Are there specific trails for easy walks near Castle Island attractions?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For instance, the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop' from Castle Coole is an easy 4.7 km walk. Another easy option is the 'Lough Coole – Ancient Chestnut Tree loop' which is about 2.7 km. These trails allow you to enjoy the natural surroundings and historical estates without strenuous effort. More easy hiking routes can be found in the hiking guide.
What is the best way to experience the Devenish Island Round Tower?
The Devenish Island Round Tower, part of the monastic site, is a 25-meter tall 12th-century structure. You can climb the tower via a series of ladders to experience its interior and observe the 12th-century Romanesque features, including a unique beaded cornice and head sculptures. Viewing it from Trory Pier also offers a majestic perspective of the tower standing above the ruined buildings.
Can I cycle around the attractions near Castle Island?
Absolutely. The area around Castle Island offers various cycling routes. Options range from moderate to difficult, including loops like 'Enniskillen Castle – Old Castle Archdale loop' (82 km) or shorter ones like 'Enniskillen Castle – Enniskillen Castle loop' (31.6 km). These routes allow you to explore the Fermanagh Lakelands and its attractions on two wheels. For detailed routes, consult the cycling guide.
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