Attractions and Places To See around Clogher - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Clogher include a variety of historical sites, natural landscapes, and outdoor activities across its distinct locations in Ireland. The Clogher Valley in County Tyrone offers rich history and scenic rural areas between the Sperrin Mountains and Slieve Beagh hills. Clogherhead in County Louth is known for its coastline and maritime heritage, while Clogher in County Mayo features a heritage complex and wetland environments. This diverse region provides opportunities to explore ancient ruins, significant…
Last updated: October 30, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
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Old Crom Castle Ruins
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Wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels and many rare …
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Crom Estate
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Clones Round Tower
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Belturbet
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Tips from the Community
The fortress (1611) withstood two heavy sieges in 1689 (during the Jacobite Wars) but was completely destroyed by a devastating fire in 1764. The circular path passes by the ruins.
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A beautiful riverside town, Belturbet is a delight to explore. Popular with boaters and golfers, the surrounding area also has some pretty walking trails too. There are several bars and restaurants for post hike refreshment.
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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Managed by the National Trust, the Crom Estate is a large nature reserve of woodlands, lake, castle ruins and islands. It is an important habitat for pine martens, bats, deer, red squirrels and butterflies. There is a coffee shop at the estate and if you fancy something different you can hire a boat to explore the lough. For more details check out the website https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/crom
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The round tower in Clones was originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey. Although it would once have stood at 75 feet (23 m), the top part is now missing. Nonetheless, it is still a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. There would once have been four storeys, including a bell storey. St Tierney's graveyard, which surrounds the tower, is also an interesting place to explore with many 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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Set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Crom is one of Ireland's most important nature conservation areas. Wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels and many rare species including butterflies can all be found on the estate. Also inhabiting the surrounding area are all eight species of native bats and an outstanding array of rare lichens. The 2,000 acre demesne contains ancient woodland, tranquil islands, estate cottages and Old Crom Castle, all linked by the breathtakingly beautiful landscape designed by W.S.Gilpin in the 19th century. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/crom-estate-p675551)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in the Clogher region?
The Clogher region is rich in history. In County Tyrone, you can visit the ancient Clogher Hillfort: Rathmore, the Neolithic Knockmany Passage Tomb, and St Macartan's Cathedral. The childhood home of novelist William Carleton, Carleton's Cottage, also offers a glimpse into the past. Near Clones, you can explore the ruins of Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a monastery dating back to the 12th century, and the nearby Clones Round Tower. In County Mayo, the Clogher Heritage Complex features a restored forge and laborer's cottage, while Doonamona Castle provides a look at historical architecture.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities in Clogher?
Yes, several attractions in the Clogher area are suitable for families. The Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins offer expansive nature reserves with opportunities to spot wildlife like deer and red squirrels, and the estate even has a coffee shop and boat hire. The Crom Castle Boathouse is a great spot for a family picnic. For adventure, Todds Leap in Ballygawley offers activities like ziplining and off-road driving. The Blessingbourne Estate in County Tyrone also provides mountain bike trails for all ages and abilities.
What natural landscapes and viewpoints can I find around Clogher?
The Clogher region boasts diverse natural beauty. In County Tyrone, the Clogher Valley itself is a scenic rural area with the River Blackwater, perfect for hiking and birdwatching. Slieve Beagh offers lovely green spaces, and numerous loughs like Killycorran Lough provide tranquil settings. The Old Crom Castle Ruins offer splendid views over Upper Lough Erne. In Clogherhead, County Louth, the Headland provides stunning coastal views from the Mourne Mountains to Lambay Island, and is a Special Area of Conservation. Clogherhead Beach is a sandy Blue Flag beach ideal for swimming. In County Mayo, the Clogher Bog Loop Walk showcases unique bogland flora and wetlands, with small lakes like Lough Joe and Lough Frank.
Where can I go cycling or mountain biking near Clogher attractions?
For cycling enthusiasts, the Clogher area offers several options. You can explore sections of the Kingfisher Cycle Trail, or enjoy loops around the Crom Estate and Clones. The Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails near Fivemiletown in County Tyrone provide technical features suitable for various skill levels. Find more details and routes on the Cycling around Clogher guide page.
Are there hiking or walking trails available around Clogher?
Yes, there are many opportunities for hiking and walking. In County Tyrone, the Carleton Trail is a 30-mile waymarked route rich in history. The Clogher Valley itself is popular for hiking. In County Louth, the Clogherhead Headland Walk offers trails along steep sea cliffs. In County Mayo, the Clogher Bog Loop Walk is an 8km trail showcasing biodiversity. For easier options, the Crom Estate features several trails, including the Crom Estate Trail and loops around the Crom Castle Boathouse and Old Crom Castle Ruins. Discover more routes on the Easy hikes around Clogher guide.
What unique geological features can be found in the Clogher region?
Clogherhead in County Louth is internationally recognized for its geological significance. It is the site where the Iapetus Suture reaches Ireland's east coast, making it a unique location where fossils from two ancient continents can be found. This area is also notable as the only high, rocky headland on the east coast between the Mournes and Howth.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the Clogher area?
The Clogher region is home to diverse wildlife. The Crom Estate, encompassing both the Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins, is a significant nature conservation area. Here, you might spot wild deer, pine martens, red squirrels, and various rare species including butterflies and all eight species of native bats. The Clogher Valley is also known for birdwatching, and the boglands in County Mayo are of interest to naturalists for their unique flora and fauna.
Are there any religious or spiritual sites to visit in Clogher?
Yes, the region has several sites with religious significance. In County Tyrone, St Macartan's Cathedral stands on an ancient site with a church recorded as early as the fifth century. St Patrick's Chair and Well, also known as the Druids Chair and Well, is believed to possess healing properties. Near Clones, the Clones 'Wee' Abbey, originally founded in the 6th century, and the nearby Clones Round Tower are important historical religious sites. In Clogherhead, County Louth, a cemetery is believed to be on the site of a 6th-century monastery. In County Mayo, you can find Cloch an Altór, a dolmen used as a mass rock, and the Holy Well (Tobermacduagh).
What are the best places for running trails around Clogher?
If you enjoy running, the Clogher area offers several scenic trails. You can find moderate loops around the Crom Estate, such as the one starting from Old Crom Castle Ruins. Other options include loops around Dummys Lough and Castle Saunderson Demesne. For more detailed routes and distances, check out the Running Trails around Clogher guide page.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Clogher?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich history and natural beauty of the Clogher region. The ancient ruins like Clones 'Wee' Abbey offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, with their crumbling walls and interesting graveyards. The expansive nature reserves at Crom Estate, including the Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins, are loved for their tranquil islands, ancient woodlands, and opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. The stunning views from the Crom Castle Boathouse over Lough Erne are also a highlight for many.
Are there any coastal attractions or beaches in the Clogher region?
Yes, if you're looking for coastal experiences, Clogherhead in County Louth is the place to go. It features a beautiful sandy Blue Flag beach, Clogherhead Beach, which is popular for swimming and beach activities. The Clogherhead Headland offers stunning views of Ireland's east coast and is a Special Area of Conservation. You can also visit Port Oriel, a significant fishing port, and take boat trips to see features like Redman's Cave.
What is the Clogher Heritage Complex in County Mayo?
The Clogher Heritage Complex in County Mayo offers a unique cultural experience. It features a typical one-bedroom laborer's cottage, complete with a cottage garden and a display of vintage farm machinery. The complex also includes a restored working forge, Staunton's Forge, providing insight into traditional crafts. It serves as the starting point for the Clogher Bog Loop walk, connecting visitors with the natural and historical aspects of the area.
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