Best attractions and places to see around Ferny Island include a variety of historical sites, natural monuments, and ancient religious buildings. The region offers opportunities to explore centuries of history, from medieval castles to early Christian settlements. Visitors can also discover significant natural features, such as ancient trees within wooded estates.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Ferny Island.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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.
0
0
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
1
0
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
0
0
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
0
0
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.
1
0
Run past the beautiful Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th century manor house set in a gorgeous 1,200 acre wooded landscape park.
1
0
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.
1
0
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.
3
0
Yes, several attractions around Ferny Island are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle offers a fascinating historical experience, while the Ancient Chestnut Tree provides a natural wonder along an easy path, perfect for a stroll. Castle Coole, with its extensive wooded estate, is also a great place for families to explore.
Ferny Island is rich in history. You can explore Enniskillen Castle, a 16th-century fortress with a museum detailing the region's past. Another significant site is Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th-century Neo-classical mansion set within a vast estate. For ancient religious history, visit Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones or the Devenish Monastic Site, founded in the 6th century.
Absolutely. One notable natural monument is the Ancient Chestnut Tree, which forms a natural arch over a path along the Beech Trail, showcasing some of the oldest trees on the estate. The wooded estates of places like Castle Coole also offer beautiful natural landscapes to enjoy.
There are several hiking opportunities near Ferny Island's attractions. You can enjoy easy walks like the 4.67 km 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole' or the 2.67 km 'Lough Coole – Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Enniskillen'. For more options, explore the various trails listed in the Hiking around Ferny Island guide.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity around Ferny Island. There are routes suitable for both road cycling and touring bicycles. An easy option is the 9.44 km 'Enniskillen Castle – Castle Coole loop from Enniskillen'. You can find more routes, including moderate and difficult options, in the Road Cycling Routes around Ferny Island and Cycling around Ferny Island guides.
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich history and natural beauty. Many enjoy learning about the region's past at Enniskillen Castle, which tells stories from Irish rebellions to sieges. The serene atmosphere and ancient trees along the Beech Trail, especially the Ancient Chestnut Tree, are also highly valued.
Beyond the main attractions, consider visiting Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, which features unique stones in its graveyard, including the Bishops stone and a large slab with cup-shaped hollows. Another significant, though less-trafficked, site is the Devenish Monastic Site, an important island church settlement founded in the 6th century with impressive Romanesque decorations.
Yes, the area boasts ancient trees and wooded estates. The Ancient Chestnut Tree is a prime example, forming a natural arch over a path. Additionally, the 1,200-acre wooded estate surrounding Castle Coole is dotted with ancient oak, ash, and beech trees, offering a beautiful natural setting.
Enniskillen Castle, built in the 16th century, has a rich and turbulent history. It has witnessed Irish rebellions against English rule, sieges, and even served as protection against the threat of French invasion. Today, it functions as a heritage center, allowing visitors to delve into centuries of regional history.
Enniskillen Castle is generally open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM from Monday to Friday, and from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current opening times before planning your visit.
While the mansion itself may have specific tour fees, entrance to the extensive grounds of Castle Coole typically costs around £5 per adult. This allows you to explore the beautiful parklands and enjoy the magnificent 18th-century manor house from the outside.
The Devenish Monastic Site is considered the most important of Lough Erne's island church settlements. Founded in the 6th century by St Molaise, it features extensive low earthworks, St Molaise's House, and a fine round tower with striking 12th-century Romanesque decorations. Its rich history includes Viking raids and medieval flourishing as a parish church and Augustinian Priory.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: