Attractions and places to see around Bellanaleck offer a blend of historical sites and natural beauty in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Situated along the shores of Lough Erne, the area provides opportunities for exploring waterways and woodlands. Visitors can discover significant historical estates and ancient monuments. The region serves as a base for experiencing the local heritage and diverse landscapes.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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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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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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Florence Court House is a magnificent 18th-century country estate situated in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain. The house is amongst a medley of lush green parkland and thick woodland with sights of the wonderful Benaughlin Mountain in the distance. The house is now owned by the National Trust and is open to explore daily. For more information regarding opening times and ticket prices visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/florence-court
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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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Nestled in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain, Florence Court is a wonderful Georgian mansion surrounded by picturesque countryside. The first house was built by John Cole at the beginning of the 18th century and named after his wife, Florence. The Cole family lived in the house for over 250 years. Today, the estate is managed by the National Trust. There are over 10 miles (16 km) of hiking and bike trails to explore the grounds. You can visit a water-powered sawmill and blacksmith's forge that reveal the area's industrial heritage. There's also a beautiful Irish yew tree, Florence Court Yew, which is one of two original Irish Yew discovered in 1767. There is a small entrance fee to the gardens and forest.
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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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The area around Bellanaleck 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 house set in extensive parklands. Don't miss Devenish Monastic Site, an important island church settlement founded in the 6th century on Lough Erne.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Florence Court offers a grand Georgian house, extensive gardens, and over 10 miles of hiking and bike trails. The Ancient Chestnut Tree, located along the Beech Trail, provides a natural arch that children often enjoy exploring. The Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark, a short drive away, offers a fascinating underground adventure for all ages.
Bellanaleck is ideally situated along the shores of Lough Erne, a vast waterway perfect for boating, fishing, and leisurely lakeside walks. You can also visit Castle Archdale Country Park for walking trails, birdwatching, and picnics. For a unique experience, the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark offers an exploration of subterranean wonders.
There are numerous walking and hiking opportunities. Florence Court has over 10 miles of trails, including the Florence Court Red Trail. You can also find easy walks like the Ancient Chestnut Tree loop from Castle Coole. For more options, explore the hiking routes around Bellanaleck.
Absolutely. The region offers various cycling routes, from easy to difficult. You can find routes like the Florence Court loop from Bellanaleck or longer rides such as the Lough Erne and Ballyshannon loop. Discover more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Bellanaleck guide.
In nearby Enniskillen, you can visit the Fermanagh County Museum to learn about local history and heritage, or The Inniskillings Museum, which details the history of the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. Within Bellanaleck village, the Sheelin Tea Shop & Museum offers a glimpse into local crafts with its display of antique Irish Lace.
Yes, there are several running trails. You can enjoy routes around Lough Coole and Castle Coole, or explore loops around Enniskillen. Check out the Running Trails around Bellanaleck guide for detailed options, including easy and moderate routes.
The Crom Estate and Castle, a short distance from Bellanaleck, is a historical and natural treasure managed by the National Trust. It features a stunning castle, beautiful grounds, lush gardens, woodlands, and serene lakeside paths, offering guided tours and wildlife watching.
Lough Erne is Bellanaleck's most enchanting feature, a vast and interconnected waterway renowned for its serene beauty. Its tranquil waters are perfect for boating, fishing, and leisurely lakeside walks. Visitors can hire cruisers from Bellanaleck to explore the Shannon-Erne Waterway and both Upper and Lower Lough Erne.
Yes, in Bellanaleck village, the Sheelin Tea Shop & Museum is a charming thatch-roofed establishment. Beyond enjoying tea, you can explore its museum, which displays antique Irish Lace, offering a unique insight into local crafts and history.
The natural areas around Bellanaleck, particularly along Lough Erne and within estates like Crom Estate and Castle Archdale Country Park, offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. Birdwatching is popular, and the diverse landscapes support various local fauna.
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and boating on Lough Erne. The longer daylight hours and milder temperatures make exploring the natural beauty and historical sites more enjoyable.


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