Attractions and Places To See around Kilnacran - Top 8
Best attractions and places to see around Kilnacran are primarily found within the broader County Fermanagh, a region known for its extensive waterways and scenic landscapes. This area, often referred to as "Northern Ireland's Lake District," features numerous loughs, forests, and historical sites. Visitors can explore a diverse range of natural features and cultural landmarks that define the Fermanagh landscape. The region offers opportunities to discover ancient ruins, significant conservation areas, and picturesque viewpoints.
Best attractions and places to see…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
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Crom Estate Castle Ruins
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Clones Round Tower
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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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Carnmore Lough
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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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This is an extraordinarily wild and scenic part of Northern Ireland. The lough appears on your right as you travel down Carnmore Road against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest.
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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 around Kilnacran?
The region around Kilnacran is rich in history. You can visit the ancient ruins of Old Crom Castle Ruins, a historical site set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne. Another significant spot is Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century, with its interesting graveyard. Nearby, the Clones Round Tower, originally part of the abbey, is a prominent 10th-century feature. Further afield in County Fermanagh, explore Enniskillen Castle, Florence Court, or the Devenish Island Monastic Site.
Are there any natural viewpoints or scenic areas near Kilnacran?
Yes, the area boasts several beautiful natural viewpoints. Carnmore Lough offers an extraordinarily wild and picturesque part of Northern Ireland, set against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest. The Old Crom Castle Ruins also provide scenic views over Upper Lough Erne. County Fermanagh, often called 'Northern Ireland's Lake District,' is full of loughs and forests, including the expansive Lough Erne and Lough Navar Forest with its breathtaking vistas.
What outdoor activities, like hiking, are available around Kilnacran?
You'll find several hiking opportunities around Kilnacran. The Crom Estate offers easy walks, such as the Crom Estate Trail, and various loops around Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Castle Boathouse. For more hiking options, including routes of varying difficulty, you can explore the hiking guide for Kilnacran. A more challenging and iconic hike in the wider region is the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, also known as the 'Stairway to Heaven'.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Kilnacran area?
Absolutely. Many attractions are suitable for families. Both the Old Crom Castle Ruins and the Crom Estate Castle Ruins are family-friendly, offering space to explore historical sites and natural surroundings. The Crom Estate, managed by the National Trust, features woodlands, a lake, and opportunities to spot wildlife like red squirrels. Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery, also welcomes families to explore its historic grounds.
Where can I go cycling around Kilnacran?
Kilnacran and the surrounding County Fermanagh offer several road cycling routes. You can find options ranging from easy to difficult, such as the 'Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop from Clones' or the longer 'Enniskillen, Kinawley and Derrynawilt loop from Lisnaskea'. For a comprehensive list of routes, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Kilnacran guide.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the Kilnacran area?
The region, particularly around the Crom Estate, is a significant nature conservation area. At Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins, you might spot wild deer, pine martens, red squirrels, and various species of bats. The estate is also home to rare butterflies and an outstanding array of lichens, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
Are there any unique cultural experiences or museums nearby?
Beyond the historical ruins, County Fermanagh offers unique cultural experiences. You can visit the Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre to see the artistry of Parian China. For a glimpse into railway history, the Headhunters Railway Museum provides a quirky insight. Enniskillen Castle also houses two museums: the Fermanagh County Museum and The Inniskillings Museum, showcasing local history and military heritage.
What are the Marble Arch Caves and Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail?
These are two prominent natural attractions in County Fermanagh. The Marble Arch Caves are one of Europe's finest show caves, offering guided tours through a fascinating subterranean world of geological formations. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, often called the 'Stairway to Heaven,' is an iconic boardwalk leading to the summit of Cuilcagh Mountain, providing challenging hikes and panoramic views. Both are part of the Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark.
Can I explore islands or loughs in the Kilnacran region?
Yes, the region is defined by its waterways. Lough Erne, a system of two interconnected lakes, is central to Fermanagh's identity and ideal for boating and fishing. You can explore numerous islands, such as Devenish Island, which hosts well-preserved monastic ruins and is accessible by boat. Carnmore Lough also offers a wild and scenic lake experience.
What is the Crom Estate and what does it offer visitors?
The Crom Estate, managed by the National Trust, is a significant conservation area featuring ancient woodlands, wetlands, and the serene shores of Upper Lough Erne. It includes the ruins of a 17th-century castle and a neo-Tudor castle. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, spot diverse wildlife like pine martens and red squirrels, and even hire a boat to explore the lough. There's also a coffee shop on the estate.
Are there any ancient or mysterious stone carvings to see?
Yes, County Fermanagh is home to some intriguing ancient stone carvings. On Boa Island, you can find the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, two unique pre-Christian, likely Iron Age, stone figures known for their Janus-faced carvings. White Island also features a collection of enigmatic stone figures with both 'pagan' and Christian carvings.
What is the best time of year to visit Kilnacran and its attractions?
The best time to visit Kilnacran and County Fermanagh generally depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer (April to September) offer milder weather, longer daylight hours, and lush green landscapes, which are ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring outdoor attractions like the Crom Estate and the Cuilcagh Boardwalk. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can be quieter but still offers opportunities for exploring historical sites and enjoying the serene lough views.
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