Attractions and places to see around Coles Hill include a variety of historical sites, ancient natural features, and significant religious monuments. The region offers opportunities to explore centuries of history, from medieval castles to early Christian stones. Visitors can discover both man-made heritage and ancient natural landmarks, making it a destination for those interested in history and nature.
Last updated: April 25, 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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The region around Coles Hill is rich in history. You can explore Enniskillen Castle, a 16th-century fortress with a past of rebellions and sieges, now a heritage center and museum. Another significant historical site is Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th-century Neo-classical mansion set within a vast wooded estate. Don't miss the Devenish Monastic Site, an important island church settlement founded in the 6th century, featuring a round tower and ancient church ruins.
Yes, nature enthusiasts will appreciate the Ancient Chestnut Tree, a sprawling Horse Chestnut that forms a natural arch over the Beech Trail. The area also features beautiful parklands, such as those surrounding Castle Coole, dotted with ancient oak, ash, and beech trees.
You can visit Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, where the graveyard contains several notable stones, including the Bishops stone and a large slab with cup-shaped hollows, suggesting its reuse as an early Christian cross slab. The Devenish Monastic Site also offers a glimpse into early Christian history with its ancient churches and round tower.
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 provide ample space for children to explore. Additionally, discovering the Ancient Chestnut Tree along the Beech Trail can be a fun outdoor adventure for families.
The area around Coles Hill offers various outdoor activities. You can find several easy hiking routes, such as the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole' or the 'Lough Coole – Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Enniskillen'. For runners, there are routes like the 'Lough Coole and Castle Coole running loop from Enniskillen'. Cyclists can enjoy road cycling routes, including the 'Bishop's Stone loop from Enniskillen'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the easy hikes, running trails, and road cycling routes guides.
Yes, there are several hiking trails available. For instance, you can take the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole' which is 4.67 km long and rated easy, or the 'Lough Coole – Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Enniskillen' at 2.67 km. The 'Enniskillen Castle – Enniskillen Castle loop from Enniskillen' is a longer easy option at 6.32 km. Explore more options in the easy hikes around Coles Hill guide.
Visitors particularly enjoy the rich history and natural beauty. The historical significance of sites like Enniskillen Castle and Castle Coole, combined with the serene landscapes and unique natural features like the Ancient Chestnut Tree, are frequently highlighted. The blend of man-made heritage and ancient natural landmarks appeals to a wide range of interests.
Absolutely. The region is steeped in history. Enniskillen Castle serves as a heritage center and museum, offering deep insights into the region's past. The Devenish Monastic Site provides a window into early Christian settlements, while Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones showcase ancient religious artifacts and practices.
Yes, the area boasts two notable castles. Enniskillen Castle is a historic 16th-century stronghold that now houses a museum. Additionally, Castle Coole is an impressive 18th-century Neo-classical mansion, offering a glimpse into aristocratic life with its grand architecture and extensive grounds.
The region offers diverse natural landscapes, from the ancient woodlands surrounding Castle Coole, featuring oak, ash, and beech trees, to the unique Ancient Chestnut Tree. The presence of Lough Coole and other loughs (lakes) in the area also suggests scenic waterscapes that can be enjoyed on various routes.
Road cycling is a popular way to explore the region. You can find routes like the 'Bishop's Stone loop from Enniskillen', which is an easy 33.6 km ride. For more challenging options, there are longer routes such as the 'Lough Erne and Ballyshannon loop from Enniskillen' or the 'Lough Melvin – Castle Caldwell Gatehouses loop from Enniskillen'. Discover more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Coles Hill guide.


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