Attractions and Places To See around Ardees Upper - Top 14
Best attractions and places to see around Ardees Upper include a variety of natural and historical sites. The region features significant lakes, ancient ruins, and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from tranquil waters to historical monuments and dramatic cliffs.
Best attractions and places to see around Ardees Upper
- The most popular attractions is Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, a man-made monument featuring two pre-Christian stone figures. These unique stone carvings are located in the Caldragh Cemetery on…
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Lough Melvin
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Castle Caldwell Ruins
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Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery
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View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho
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Roogagh Waterfall
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The shimmering waters of Lough Melvin attract anglers from around the world for its beauty and diverse fish. The lake is home to three unique species of trout, as well as salmon, and an endemic species of char, the Melvin charr. If you want to try your hand at fishing, you should purchase a license and consider renting a boat. The lake is 7.5 miles (12 km) long and 1.9 miles (3 km) wide and set amongst the beautiful green countryside along the border of County Leitrim and Country Fermanagh. If you are not into fishing, there's plenty of wonderful flora and fauna to enjoy too.
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The viewpoint at the Cliffs of Magho is sensational. Enjoy panoramic views over Lough Erne and towards the Atlantic Ocean and Blue Stack mountains. Picnic benches, bins, and an information board are provided at the top.
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Built in the 17th century, Castle Caldwell was part of the Ulster Plantation, a province of Ireland colonised by British settles throughout King James I era. The castle had a number of inhabitants after that and fell into ruin towards the 1800s. Although access to the castle is now forbidden due to its dangerous state of repair, the surrounding park and forest can be explored freely. Keep your eyes peeled for the ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard.
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Surrounded by green rolling countryside, Roogagh Waterfall is a pretty nature spot on the outskirts of Garrison village close to Lough Melvin. There's a short walk that leads along the river and through woodland to reach the falls. You can pick up supplies in Garrison to enjoy a packed lunch overlooking the cascading water at one of the numerous picnic benches.
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The shimmering waters of Lough Melvin attract anglers from around the world for its beauty and diverse fish. The lake is home to three unique species of trout, as well as salmon, and an endemic species of char, the Melvin charr. If you want to try your hand at fishing, you should purchase a license and consider renting a boat. The lake is 7.5 miles (12 km) long and 1.9 miles (3 km) wide and set amongst the beautiful green countryside along the border of County Leitrim and Country Fermanagh. If you are not into fishing, there's plenty of wonderful flora and fauna to enjoy too.
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Built in the 17th century by Francis Blennerhasett of Norfolk, Castle Caldwell was once part of Ulster Plantation, a province of Ireland colonised by British settlers during the reign of King James I. The castle had various inhabitants over the centuries until it fell into ruin towards the end of the 1800s. Today, Castle Caldwell lies within Castle Caldwell Forest Park, a nature reserve on the banks of Lower Lough Erne. Although access to the castle is forbidden due to its ruinous state, you can visit the surrounding park for free. Look out for the ruined chapel and overgrown graveyard too.
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Breathtaking views of Lough Earne.
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The two pre-Christian, probably Iron Age stone figures, some 70cm high, stand amongst modern graves in the small, isolated Caldragh graveyard. Both were originally Janus-faced (face on front and back). The simpler figure is more heavily damaged. It is likely to be a Celtic cernunnos-like god of vegetation and fertility.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Ardees Upper?
The area offers several beautiful natural features. You can visit Lough Melvin, a large lake known for its diverse fish species and scenic beauty. Another highlight is the Roogagh Waterfall, a picturesque spot surrounded by green countryside. For breathtaking vistas, head to the View of Lough Erne from Cliffs of Magho, offering panoramic views over Lough Erne and towards the Atlantic Ocean. Additionally, the wider Ardee area includes natural scenery at The Burren and Stephenstown Pond.
Are there any historical sites or ancient monuments to visit?
Yes, Ardees Upper and the surrounding region are rich in history. Don't miss the unique Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, two pre-Christian stone figures on Boa Island. You can also explore the ruins of Castle Caldwell, a 17th-century castle within a forest park. Further afield, consider visiting Ardee Castle and Hatch's Castle in Ardee town, the impressive Monasterboice High Crosses and Monastic Site, or the historic Old Mellifont Abbey.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
There are various outdoor activities to enjoy. For hiking, you can find easy trails like the Rossergole Point Walk or the Cliffs of Magho loop. Cyclists can explore routes such as the Lough Melvin loop for road cycling or the Boa Island loop for touring. You can find more details on these and other routes in the easy hikes, road cycling, and general cycling guides for the area.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Ardees Upper?
Absolutely. Many natural attractions like Lough Melvin, Roogagh Waterfall, and the Cliffs of Magho viewpoint are suitable for families. In the wider Ardee area, the Irish Military War Museum & Family Park offers an engaging experience, and Long Acre Alpacas provides unique animal encounters and farm tours. The Fair Green in Ardee also features a play park for children.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Ardees Upper?
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique historical significance of sites like the Janus Stones and the stunning natural beauty found at locations such as Lough Melvin. The panoramic views from the Cliffs of Magho are frequently highlighted for their breathtaking scenery.
Are there any specific cultural events or festivals in the Ardee area?
Yes, the town of Ardee traditionally hosts the Ardee Baroque Festival in November. This festival celebrates 17th and 18th-century music and features performances by the Irish Baroque Orchestra, offering a unique cultural experience.
Where can I find local shops, pubs, or cafes in the area?
The nearby town of Ardee offers an authentic Irish market town experience. You'll find a variety of local shops, traditional pubs, and cafes and restaurants, many of which pride themselves on sourcing ingredients from local farms.
What are some other notable historical landmarks in the broader Ardee region?
Beyond the immediate Ardees Upper area, you can explore the ancient Newgrange, a significant historic building, or visit Slane Castle, both located in neighboring County Meath. The Jumping Church of Kildemock, with its unique local legend, is also a point of interest near Ardee.
Can I go fishing in the area?
Yes, Lough Melvin is particularly renowned for its fishing opportunities. Its shimmering waters attract anglers from around the world due to its diverse fish species, including three unique species of trout, salmon, and the endemic Melvin charr. Remember to purchase a license if you plan to fish.
Are there any golf courses nearby?
Yes, the Ardee Golf Club offers a parkland course that welcomes visitors. It provides a sporting challenge amidst the scenic Louth countryside.
What is the significance of the River Dee in Ardee?
The town of Ardee itself grew at a ford on the River Dee. This river holds a special place in Irish mythology as the site of an epic battle between the legendary hero Cúchulainn and Ferdia, adding a layer of folklore to the region's history.
Where can I find more information about the Ardee area?
For additional visitor information and to discover more hidden gems of Ardee and Mid-Louth, you can visit the official tourism website: visitlouth.ie.
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