Attractions and Places To See around Ballywillin - Top 8
Attractions and places to see around Ballywillin include a variety of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural landmarks. The region features ancient castle ruins, serene loughs, and significant monastic heritage. Visitors can explore areas known for their conservation efforts and diverse wildlife. Ballywillin offers 8 distinct places to discover, appealing to those interested in history and the outdoors.
Best attractions and places to see around Ballywillin
- The most popular attractions is Old Crom Castle Ruins, a viewpoint that is…
Last updated: June 23, 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
Highlight • Viewpoint
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 natural attractions can I explore around Ballywillin?
The region offers several natural highlights. You can visit Old Crom Castle Ruins, which is part of a significant nature conservation area on the shores of Upper Lough Erne, home to wild deer and rare species. Another scenic spot is Carnmore Lough, known for its wild beauty and vibrant green coniferous forest backdrop. The wider area, particularly around Ballyliffin, boasts stunning natural landscapes like the Inishowen Peninsula, Trawbreaga Bay (a Wildlife Conservation Area), and Pollan Bay.
Are there any historical sites or ancient ruins to visit?
Yes, Ballywillin and its surroundings are rich in history. You can explore Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century, or the prominent Clones Round Tower, originally part of the abbey. The Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins also offer a glimpse into the region's past within beautiful natural settings. Further afield, you might find Nendrum Monastery Ruins and Sketrick Castle of interest.
What family-friendly activities are available in the Ballywillin area?
Several attractions are suitable for families. The Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are both tagged as family-friendly, offering space to explore woodlands, lakes, and historical sites. The Crom Estate also has a coffee shop. If you venture towards areas like Ballywilliam, Orangefield Park provides a play park, walking paths, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Where can I go for a walk or hike near Ballywillin?
There are several walking and hiking opportunities. The Crom Estate features an 'easy' rated Crom Estate Trail, as well as routes like the 'Old Crom Castle Ruins – Crom Estate Castle Ruins loop'. For more options, you can explore the Easy hikes around Ballywillin guide, which includes various trails with different distances and difficulties.
Are there opportunities for cycling around Ballywillin?
Yes, the area offers road cycling routes. You can find several options in the Road Cycling Routes around Ballywillin guide, including 'easy' routes like the 'Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop from Clones' and 'Clones Round Tower – Clones 'Wee' Abbey loop from Clones', as well as 'moderate' routes for a greater challenge.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
The region is known for its diverse wildlife. At Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins, you might spot wild deer, pine martens, red squirrels, and various rare species including butterflies and all eight native bat species. Trawbreaga Bay, a Wildlife Conservation Area near Ballyliffin, is excellent for bird-watching year-round, with eider ducks, oystercatchers, and plovers frequently seen at Pollan Bay.
Are there any loughs or lakes worth visiting for their scenery?
Absolutely. Carnmore Lough is highly recommended for its extraordinarily wild and scenic setting, framed by a vibrant green coniferous forest. The Old Crom Castle Ruins are set on the picturesque shores of Upper Lough Erne, offering stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Ballywillin?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Many enjoy the serene experience and historical insights offered by sites like Clones 'Wee' Abbey and Clones Round Tower. The natural conservation efforts and diverse wildlife at places like Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are also highly valued, providing opportunities for peaceful exploration and wildlife spotting.
Can I find any monastic heritage sites in the region?
Yes, the area is home to significant monastic heritage. Clones 'Wee' Abbey is a ruined monastery with origins in the 6th century, and the nearby Clones Round Tower was also part of this ancient monastic settlement. These sites offer a deep dive into the region's early Christian history.
Are there running trails available near these attractions?
Yes, for those interested in running, there are several trails. You can find options like the 'Old Crom Castle (Ruins) loop' or the 'Dummys Lough loop from Clones' in the Running Trails around Ballywillin guide. These trails vary in length and are generally rated as 'moderate' difficulty.
Is the area suitable for dog-friendly walks?
While specific dog-friendly tags are not available for all attractions, many outdoor areas and trails are generally suitable for walks with dogs, especially if kept on a leash. The extensive woodlands and paths at places like the Crom Estate, and the various hiking and running trails, offer good opportunities for dog walking. Always check local signage for any restrictions.
What is the best time of year to visit Ballywillin for outdoor attractions?
For outdoor attractions and activities, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for exploring. This period is ideal for walking, cycling, and enjoying the natural landscapes and historical sites. However, the region's loughs and forests can be beautiful year-round, with winter offering a different, often more serene, experience.
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