Attractions and Places To See around Kilsallagh - Top 6
Attractions and places to see around Kilsallagh offer a blend of historical sites and natural features. The region provides opportunities to explore significant landmarks and scenic natural areas. Visitors can discover historical castles, ancient trees, and monastic sites, reflecting the area's rich heritage and diverse landscape. These attractions around Kilsallagh are suitable for those interested in history and outdoor exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Kilsallagh
- The most popular attractions is Enniskillen Castle, a historical site that has been a significant landmark since the 16th century. It now functions as a heritage centre and museum, detailing the region's history.
- Another must-see spot is Ancient Chestnut Tree, a forest feature. Visitors can expect to see one of the oldest trees on the estate, forming a natural arch over the path along the Beech Trail.
- Visitors also love Castle Coole, an 18th-century Neo-classical mansion set within a 1,200 acre wooded estate. It offers insight into the life of its former wealthy inhabitants and features beautiful parklands.
- Kilsallagh is known for historical sites, castles, and natural monuments. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient structures to expansive parklands.
- The attractions around Kilsallagh are appreciated by the komoot community, with 8 upvotes and 10 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 20, 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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Ancient Chestnut Tree
Highlight • Forest
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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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Devenish Monastic Site
Highlight • Monument
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.
- en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devenish_Island
- web.archive.org/web/20120224043140/http://culturenorthernireland.org/article.aspx?art_id=746
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Devenish Island Round Tower
Highlight • Monument
- megalithicireland.com/Devenish%20Round%20Tower.html
- archive.ph/20121224010315/http://ni-environment.gov.uk/places/monuments/devenish.shtml#selection-1091.0-1091.30
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Tips from the Community
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 historical sites can I visit around Kilsallagh?
The area around Kilsallagh is rich in history. You can explore Enniskillen Castle, a significant landmark since the 16th century that now functions as a heritage centre and museum. Another notable site is Castle Coole, an 18th-century Neo-classical mansion offering insights into the lives of its former wealthy inhabitants. Don't miss the Devenish Monastic Site, an important island church settlement founded in the 6th century, featuring a well-preserved round tower.
Are there any natural attractions or unique natural features to see?
Yes, nature lovers can visit the Ancient Chestnut Tree, one of the oldest trees on the Castle Coole estate, forming a natural arch over the path along the Beech Trail. The wider region also features significant natural beauty, including the boglands of Kilsallagh Bog Special Area of Conservation (SAC) in County Galway, known for its unique peatland habitats and rare fauna like breeding red grouse and curlew.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area offers various outdoor activities, particularly cycling and hiking. You can find numerous routes for touring bicycles and road cycling, such as the 'Derrygonnelly & Boho loop' or 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail' starting from Enniskillen. For more details on cycling routes, check out the Cycling around Kilsallagh guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Kilsallagh guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Kilsallagh?
Absolutely. Many attractions are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle offers an engaging historical experience for all ages. The grounds of Castle Coole are perfect for family strolls, and the Ancient Chestnut Tree provides a lovely natural spot for children to explore along the Beech Trail.
What kind of hiking trails are available near the attractions?
You'll find a variety of hiking trails, including easy options perfect for a leisurely walk. For instance, there's an 'Ancient Chestnut Tree loop' from Castle Coole and another from Enniskillen, both rated as easy. Other easy trails include the 'Enniskillen Castle loop' and the 'Race Course Lough loop'. For a comprehensive list of easy hikes, refer to the Easy hikes around Kilsallagh guide.
What is the significance of the Devenish Monastic Site?
The Devenish Monastic Site is considered one of the most important island church settlements on Lough Erne. Founded in the 6th century by St Molaise, it features extensive ruins, including St Molaise's House, Teampull Mór (the lower church), and a beautifully preserved 12th-century round tower. The site offers a deep dive into early Christian history in Ireland.
Can I climb the Devenish Island Round Tower?
Yes, the 25-meter tall 12th-century Devenish Island Round Tower can be climbed by the public via a series of internal ladders. It offers a unique perspective and features 12th-century Romanesque decorations, including a beaded cornice and head sculptures above the bell-storey windows.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Kilsallagh?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of rich history and natural beauty. The historical sites like Enniskillen Castle and Castle Coole offer fascinating insights into the region's past, while natural features like the Ancient Chestnut Tree provide serene outdoor experiences. The opportunity to explore ancient structures and expansive parklands is highly valued by the komoot community.
Are there any specific tips for visiting Enniskillen Castle?
Enniskillen Castle, founded in the 15th century, was refurbished between 2007 and 2013 and is now open to the public as a heritage centre and museum. It's open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM Monday to Friday, and 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on weekends. It's situated in the heart of Enniskillen on the banks of the River Erne, making it easily accessible.
What should I know before visiting Castle Coole?
Castle Coole is a magnificent 18th-century Neo-classical mansion set within a 1,200-acre wooded estate. It was given to the National Trust in 1951. You can visit the mansion and its grounds to gain insight into the life of its wealthy inhabitants. Entrance to the grounds typically costs £5 per adult, and the parklands are dotted with oak, ash, and beech trees, offering beautiful scenery for walks.
Is there public transport available to reach these attractions?
While specific public transport details for each attraction are not provided, many of the key sites like Enniskillen Castle are located within or very close to the town of Enniskillen, which is a regional hub. For attractions further afield, local bus services or taxis may be an option, but a car is generally recommended for flexibility when exploring the wider region and its more remote natural and historical sites.
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