Best attractions and places to see around Drumbarna are primarily found within the wider County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. This region is characterized by its extensive lakelands, diverse landscapes, and significant historical sites. While Drumbarna itself is a townland, the surrounding area offers a range of notable landmarks and natural features. Visitors can explore ancient monuments and historical castles that reflect the area's rich past.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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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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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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During WW2 Castle Archdale was a major base for flying boats and housed up to 2,500 people. Buildings such as these would have been a central location for the RAF fighters who lived here. Sometimes exhibitions are held in these courtyards to display some of the key historical notes of the use of this area during the war.
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Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle was built in the 1600s and was the main castle on this former estate before its successor took it's place in the 1800s, Castle Archdale.
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Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop. It is named 'old' to distinguish it from its successor, the 18th century Castle Archdale. The castle was built by an Englishman from Suffolk who had been granted the estate in 1612 after paying 5 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence for the 1000 acres of land. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641 the castle was captured by Rory Maguire as part of the uprising to retake his lands that had been lost in 1607. The heir to the castle was saved by his nurse however the other children were killed. After the castle was returned to the family it was repaired and lived in until 1689. The castle saw its end during the Williamite Wars when the castle was burnt out and abandoned.
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This fortified house is on Tully Point and built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked by John Maguire and burned on Christmas Eve with all its inhabitants massacred. After that it was not lived in again. There is a visitors centre in a restored farmhouse that has an interesting exhibition telling a number of stories relating to the castle. To visit the castle be sure to step off the bike as it is on foot only!
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Perched atop a cliff and surrounded by thick forest, it's easy to imagine how life would have been hundreds of years ago as you wander the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale. Built in 1615 by Englishman John Archdale, the castle was captured by the Irish in the Irish Rebellion of 1641. The castle was inhabited until 1689, when it was destroyed by fire and abandoned.
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This fortified house and bawn are set on Tully Point and were built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve by Rory Maguire and the inhabitants massacred. It was not lived in again. A visitor’s centre, located in a restored farmhouse, houses an exhibition telling local stories relating to the castle. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tully-castle-p675521)
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The area around Drumbarna, within County Fermanagh, is rich in history. You can visit the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle set within a forest, or the Tully Castle Ruins, another 17th-century fortified house with a visitor's centre. Further afield, explore Enniskillen Castle, Florence Court, or Castle Coole for a deeper dive into the region's past.
Yes, a truly unique site is the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery on Boa Island. These pre-Christian, likely Iron Age stone figures are a fascinating glimpse into ancient beliefs. Additionally, the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones offer insights into early Christian history with their unique carved stones.
County Fermanagh is renowned for its natural beauty. The extensive Lough Erne network of lakes offers opportunities for water activities and features numerous islands. The Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark is a UNESCO-recognized area with stunning show caves, underground rivers, and geological formations. You can also hike the Cuilcagh Boardwalk, known as the 'Stairway to Heaven,' for spectacular panoramic views, or explore Lough Navar Forest.
Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. The Tully Castle Ruins and Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings are historical sites that can engage younger visitors. The wider region offers family-friendly walks in areas like Castle Archdale Forest Park, and the Marble Arch Caves provide an exciting underground adventure.
The area around Drumbarna is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and running. For hiking, explore trails like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Tully Castle Ruins loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop'. For more details on these activities, visit the dedicated guides for hiking, cycling, and running trails around Drumbarna.
Absolutely! For an easy walk, consider the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' trail (4.6 km) or the 'Tully Castle Ruins loop' (2 km). These trails offer a chance to explore historical sites within natural settings. You can find more hiking options and details in the Hiking around Drumbarna guide.
For cycling enthusiasts, the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' (over 18 km) is a popular choice. Other routes include 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop' and 'Old Castle Archdale – Castle Archdale Marina loop'. Detailed information on these and other cycling routes can be found in the Cycling around Drumbarna guide.
Beyond the more prominent sites, you can discover fascinating historical gems like the Aghanaglack Dual Court Tomb, a Neolithic court tomb dating back 4000-3000 BC, or the Reyfad Stones, prehistoric rock art panels with enigmatic cup-and-ring markings. These offer a glimpse into the very ancient history of the region.
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring the natural features of County Fermanagh. The longer daylight hours and milder temperatures make it ideal for enjoying the lakelands and trails. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable.
Yes, the area boasts several significant castles. You can explore the ruins of Old Castle Archdale and Tully Castle Ruins. Further afield, Enniskillen Castle, Monea Castle, and the impressive neo-classical country house Castle Coole provide rich historical experiences.
The region has a strong early Christian heritage. Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones offer a look at ancient religious carvings. Devenish Island, located in Lough Erne, is home to monastic ruins including a well-preserved 12th-century round tower. White Island Ecclesiastical Site also features a Romanesque church and carved stone figures.
Visitors appreciate the rich historical context and the unique ancient sites. For example, the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery are noted for their unique stone carvings. The historical castles like Old Castle Archdale offer a glimpse into 17th-century life and significant historical events, often set within beautiful natural surroundings.
Lough Erne, with its extensive network of interconnected lakes, is perfect for water-based activities. You can enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Boat tours are also available, allowing you to explore the numerous islands, many of which hold historical significance.


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