Attractions and Places To See around Shankill - Top 6
Attractions and places to see around Shankill include historical sites, ancient castles, and natural features. The area offers insights into centuries of history, from medieval fortifications to 18th-century estates. Visitors can explore significant historical landmarks and natural monuments. The landscape features wooded parklands and ancient trees, providing opportunities for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Shankill
- The most popular attraction is Enniskillen Castle, a historical site built in the 15th century. It served as a fortress and…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
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Ancient Chestnut Tree
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Castle Coole
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Devenish Monastic Site
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Devenish Island Round Tower
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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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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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Founded by Saint Laisrén mac Nad Froích (aka St Molaise) in the 6th century, the monastic site was built on a pilgrimage route to Croagh Patrick. As you view the Island from Trory Pier you can see the 25 metre tall 12th century round tower standing majestically above the ruined buildings. The tower has wooden floors and can be climbed by the public via a series of ladders. The tower is decorated with 12th century romanesque features, the most unusual feature is a beaded cornice running around the top of tower with head sculpture featured above the bell-storey windows. - http://www.megalithicireland.com/Devenish%20Round%20Tower.html - https://archive.ph/20121224010315/http://www.ni-environment.gov.uk/places/monuments/devenish.shtml#selection-1091.0-1091.30
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main historical attractions around Shankill?
The area around Shankill is rich in history. You can explore Enniskillen Castle, a 15th-century fortress that now serves as a heritage center and museum. Another significant site is Castle Coole, an impressive 18th-century neoclassical mansion set within a vast wooded estate. Additionally, the Devenish Monastic Site, founded in the 6th century, offers a deep dive into early Christian history with its ancient churches and the iconic Devenish Island Round Tower.
Are there any natural features or monuments to see around Shankill?
Yes, the region boasts beautiful natural elements. A notable natural monument is the Ancient Chestnut Tree, one of the oldest trees on the estate, forming a natural arch over a path. The estates surrounding attractions like Castle Coole also feature extensive parklands with oak, ash, and beech trees.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Shankill offers various outdoor activities. For hiking, you can find routes like the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole' or the 'Lough Coole – Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Enniskillen'. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy road cycling routes such as the 'Lough Erne and Ballyshannon loop' or touring bicycle routes like 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail'. You can find more details and routes in the dedicated guides for Hiking around Shankill, Road Cycling Routes around Shankill, and Cycling around Shankill.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Shankill?
Absolutely. Several attractions are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle offers an engaging historical experience for all ages. The expansive grounds of Castle Coole provide plenty of space for children to explore, and the Ancient Chestnut Tree is a unique natural spot that can spark curiosity.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Shankill?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich history and natural beauty. The historical sites like Enniskillen Castle and Castle Coole offer deep insights into the region's past. The serene wooded estates and the unique Ancient Chestnut Tree are also highly valued for their peaceful atmosphere and scenic views.
What kind of hiking trails are available near Shankill attractions?
You'll find a variety of hiking trails, many of which are considered easy. Examples include the 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole' (4.7 km) and the 'Lough Coole – Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Enniskillen' (2.7 km). These trails allow you to explore the natural landscapes and historical estates. More options can be found in the Hiking around Shankill guide.
Can I visit a monastic site near Shankill?
Yes, the Devenish Monastic Site is a significant historical and religious attraction. Founded in the 6th century, it features extensive ruins, including St Molaise's House, Teampull Mór (the lower church), and the impressive 12th-century Devenish Island Round Tower, which you can climb.
What is the significance of Enniskillen Castle?
Enniskillen Castle, built in the 15th century, has a rich history, serving as a fortress during Irish rebellions and sieges. Today, it operates as a heritage center and museum, detailing the region's history and offering insights into its past as an army barracks before its refurbishment and opening to the public.
What can I expect to see at Castle Coole?
Castle Coole is an exquisite 18th-century neoclassical mansion. Visitors can tour the grand house to gain insight into aristocratic life and explore its vast 1,200-acre wooded estate, which features beautiful parklands with ancient trees. The estate also hosts grazing cattle and sheep, adding to its picturesque charm.
Are there any long-distance cycling routes near Shankill?
Yes, for more challenging rides, you can explore routes like 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail from Enniskillen', which covers approximately 160 km, or the 'Lough Erne and Ballyshannon loop' (around 137 km). These routes offer extensive exploration of the wider region. Find more details in the Cycling around Shankill guide.
What is the best time to visit the attractions around Shankill?
While specific seasonal advice isn't provided for all attractions, generally, the spring and summer months (April to September) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and cycling in the parklands and estates. Always check individual attraction opening times before your visit.
How can I learn about the history of the Devenish Monastic Site?
The Devenish Monastic Site provides a comprehensive historical experience. You can explore the ruins of St Molaise's House, Teampull Mór (the lower church) with its 13th-century features, and St Mary's Augustinian Priory. The site also features a unique, intricately-carved cross from the 15th century and the iconic Devenish Island Round Tower, offering a journey through centuries of religious and architectural history.
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