Top 5 Castles around Devenish Island
Best castles around Devenish Island are found in the tranquil setting of Lower Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. This region is known for its rich history, featuring well-preserved monastic ruins and various castles. The area offers a unique opportunity to explore historical sites surrounded by the natural beauty of the Fermanagh Lakelands. Access to some sites is often by ferry, adding to the experience of visiting these landmarks.
Best castles around Devenish Island
- The most popular castles is Enniskillen Castle, a historical site built in the 16th century on the banks of the River Erne. Today, visitors can explore its grounds and museum to learn about the region's history, including Irish rebellions and sieges.
- Another must-see spot is Necarne Castle, an intermediate historical site. Once known as Irvine Castle, it served as a military hospital during WWII before becoming a ruin.
- Visitors also love Monea Castle Ruins, a historical site built in the 17th century during the Plantation. This castle, constructed in a distinct Scottish style, was attacked during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed by fire, leaving it in its current ruined state.
- Devenish Island is known for historical sites, castles, and monastic ruins. Visitors can explore a variety of structures, from 16th-century fortifications to 17th-century plantation castles and ancient monastic settlements.
- The castles around Devenish Island are appreciated by the komoot community, with 8 upvotes and 10 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
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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Castle Coole
Highlight • Castle
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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Necarne Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
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Monea Castle Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
The castle was attacked and occupied during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and was lived in by the family of colonel Gustav Hamilton until 1704. A few decades later, a fire destroyed much of the castle, leaving it ruined as it is today.
The ruins are free to visit and open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
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Tips from the Community
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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The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
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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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Like many other castles in the area, Monea Castle was built during the Plantation in the 17th century, when settlers from Great Britain colonised lands in Ireland. The Scottish Reverend Malcolm Hamilton built the castle in 1616 in a distinctly Scottish style. The castle was attacked and occupied during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and was lived in by the family of colonel Gustav Hamilton until 1704. A few decades later, a fire destroyed much of the castle, leaving it ruined as it is today. The ruins are free to visit and open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
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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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Castle Coole is a late 18th century neoclassical mansion in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. The house is situated on a 5 km² wooded estate. Unfortunately, I could not visit it, because it was already too late. The interior design and decor should be impressive.
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Once called Irvine Castle, hence the town of Irvinestown, it is now a ruin closed to urban explorers, including cctv. It was in use as late as WWII, when it was a military hospital, but it has since lost its roof and been overtaken by plant life.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Devenish Island besides traditional castles?
Devenish Island itself is home to significant and well-preserved monastic ruins, not traditional castles. You can explore the impressive 12th-century Round Tower, St. Molaise's House, the Lower Church, and St. Mary's Augustinian Priory. The graveyard also features intricately carved stone crosses from the 15th century. These sites offer a unique glimpse into early Christian Ireland.
Are there family-friendly castles or historical sites to visit near Devenish Island?
Yes, several sites are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle offers a museum and grounds to explore. Castle Coole, an 18th-century neoclassical mansion, is set within a large wooded estate perfect for walks. The ruins of Monea Castle Ruins are also free to visit and offer a historical experience.
What is the best way to reach Devenish Island and its monastic site?
Devenish Island is located on Lower Lough Erne, and access is typically by ferry or water bus. This journey across the lough adds to the unique experience of visiting the site.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Devenish Island?
The area around Devenish Island offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes like the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole' or 'Lough Coole – Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Enniskillen'. For running, consider the 'Lough Coole and Castle Coole running loop from Enniskillen'. Road cycling routes, such as the 'Boa Island loop from Brewster Park', are also available. You can find more details on these routes in the easy hikes, running trails, and road cycling guides.
Are there any specific viewpoints or natural features to look out for in the Fermanagh Lakelands?
The Fermanagh Lakelands are known for their tranquil beauty. Devenish Island itself is situated on Lough Erne, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding landscape. The 1,200-acre wooded estate of Castle Coole is another beautiful natural feature, dotted with oak, ash, and beech trees.
What is the history behind <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/649300" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Necarne Castle</a>?
Necarne Castle, once known as Irvine Castle, has a varied history. It served as a military hospital during WWII. Today, it stands as a ruin, having lost its roof and been reclaimed by plant life, offering a glimpse into its past.
What is the best time of year to visit the historical sites around Devenish Island?
The Fermanagh Lakelands offer charm throughout the year. Visiting during spring or summer allows for pleasant weather for boat trips to Devenish Island and exploring the outdoor grounds of castles like Castle Coole. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though checking weather conditions is always advisable.
How long should I plan for a visit to Devenish Island's monastic site?
To fully appreciate the rich history and explore the various structures on Devenish Island, including the Round Tower, churches, and priory, you should plan for at least a couple of hours. This allows time for the ferry journey and a thorough exploration of the site's exhibition area and ruins.
Are there any dog-friendly trails near the castles and historical sites?
While specific dog policies for each historical site may vary, many of the surrounding natural areas and walking routes in the Fermanagh Lakelands are dog-friendly. For instance, the extensive parklands around Castle Coole offer opportunities for walks with dogs, though they should generally be kept on a leash.
What makes <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/3014313" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Monea Castle Ruins</a> unique?
Monea Castle Ruins were built in 1616 during the Plantation period in a distinct Scottish style by Reverend Malcolm Hamilton. It was attacked during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed by fire, leaving it in its current ruined state. Its unique architecture and history make it a notable site.
Where can I find parking when visiting castles in the area?
Parking options vary by site. For example, Necarne Castle has free parking available. For other sites like Enniskillen Castle or Castle Coole, designated parking areas are typically available, often with a fee for larger estates.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Devenish Island and Lough Erne?
The tranquil environment of Lough Erne and its islands, including Devenish, supports diverse wildlife. You can often spot various bird species, especially waterfowl, given the lake setting. The surrounding woodlands and natural areas also host local flora and fauna.
Most popular attractions around Devenish Island
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