Attractions and Places To See around Knockavea - Top 6
Best attractions and places to see around Knockavea include a mix of historical sites, religious buildings, and natural landscapes. The region features several lakes, some described as wild and scenic, set against coniferous forests or boggy slopes. Visitors can explore ancient ruins and prominent historical structures, offering insights into the area's past. Knockavea provides opportunities to discover hidden gems within its varied terrain.
Best attractions and places to see around Knockavea
- The most popular attractions is Carnmore Lough, a…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Clones Round Tower
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Carnmore Lough
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Lough Antrawar
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Lough Corry
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Lough Antrawar lies in the dip southeast of Slieve Beagh. The slopes above the lough are very wet and boggy so this is where the ground drains. The outflow stream flows down the valley and joins the River Blackwater.
0
0
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.
1
0
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.
2
0
This mountain lake in Doon Forest is reputed for good brown trout fishing. Anglers can wade on one side of the shore. This lough provides excellent fishing from a boat also.
2
0
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.
1
0
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.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Knockavea?
Knockavea is rich in history. You can explore Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century, known for its crumbling walls and interesting graveyard. Nearby, the Clones Round Tower, originally built around the 10th century, stands as a prominent historical landmark.
Are there any natural viewpoints or scenic spots in Knockavea?
Yes, Carnmore Lough offers an extraordinarily wild and scenic experience. This lough is set against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest, providing beautiful views.
What kind of lakes can I find in the Knockavea area?
The region features several lakes. Carnmore Lough is known for its wild and scenic beauty amidst coniferous forests. Lough Antrawar is situated in a dip with boggy slopes, suggesting a more rugged natural setting. Additionally, Lough Corry, a mountain lake in Doon Forest, is reputed for brown trout fishing.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Knockavea?
Yes, Clones 'Wee' Abbey is considered family-friendly. It's a ruined monastery with an interesting graveyard that can be explored at any time, offering a glimpse into the area's past.
What outdoor activities, like cycling, can I do near Knockavea's attractions?
You can find various cycling routes around Knockavea. Options include the Kingfisher Cycle Trail, and loops connecting historical sites like Clones 'Wee' Abbey and Clones Round Tower. For more details on routes, visit the Cycling around Knockavea guide.
Are there running trails available near Knockavea?
Yes, there are running trails in the area. You can find routes such as the Lough Antrwar on the An Trá loop, or shorter loops from Altawark and Dummys Lough. Explore more options in the Running Trails around Knockavea guide.
What should I know before visiting Lough Antrawar?
Lough Antrawar is located in a dip with very wet and boggy slopes. It is recommended to wear good walking boots and bring a waterproof jacket for your visit.
Can I go fishing in any of the lakes around Knockavea?
Yes, Lough Corry, a mountain lake in Doon Forest, is well-known for brown trout fishing. Anglers can wade on one side of the shore or fish from a boat.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Knockavea?
Visitors appreciate the mix of historical sites, religious buildings, and natural landscapes. The wild and scenic beauty of places like Carnmore Lough, and the historical depth of Clones 'Wee' Abbey and Clones Round Tower are particularly popular.
Are there any easy road cycling routes near Knockavea?
Yes, there are easy road cycling routes available, such as the Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop from Clones, and various loops connecting Clones 'Wee' Abbey and Clones Round Tower. You can find more details in the Road Cycling Routes around Knockavea guide.
What is the history behind Clones 'Wee' Abbey?
Known locally as the "Wee Abbey," Clones 'Wee' Abbey is a ruined monastery originally founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. It was destroyed by fire multiple times and suffered during the suppression of monasteries in the 16th century, eventually falling into ruin, though solitary monks lived there until the 18th century.
What is the significance of Clones Round Tower?
The Clones Round Tower was originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey. Although its top part is now missing, it remains a prominent feature on Clones' skyline and is surrounded by St Tierney's graveyard, which contains many 17th and 18th-century gravestones.
Most popular routes around Knockavea
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
