Attractions and Places To See around Killycarnan - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Killycarnan, a townland in County Monaghan, Ireland, offer a blend of historical sites and natural landscapes. While Killycarnan itself features agricultural land, the surrounding region provides diverse points of interest. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, historical monuments, and expansive natural parks. The area is characterized by its historical significance and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Killycarnan
- The most popular attractions is Old Crom Castle Ruins, a viewpoint that is part of one of Ireland's important nature conservation areas. This historical site is set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne and is home to diverse wildlife.
- Another must-see spot is Crom Estate Castle Ruins, a forest and historical site managed by the National Trust. This large nature reserve includes woodlands, a lake, and castle ruins, providing habitat for various species.
- Visitors also love Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. This religious building, originally founded in the 6th century, features crumbling walls and an interesting graveyard.
- Killycarnan is known for historical sites, natural parks, and religious buildings. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to expansive lake areas.
- The attractions around Killycarnan are appreciated by the komoot community, with 3 highlights receiving upvotes and 3 photos shared.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
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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Crom Estate Castle Ruins
Highlight • Forest
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Clones Round Tower
Highlight • Historical Site
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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Old Crom Castle Ruins
Highlight • Viewpoint
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.
(discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/crom-estate-p675551)
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Crom Castle Boathouse
Highlight • Structure
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Tips from the Community
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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The Crom Castle estate boathouse sits on the shore of Lough Erne below the main castle. The views out on onto the water from the boathouse are splendid, the perfect spot to pull up a picnic blanket and enjoy some relaxation.
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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 Killycarnan?
The area around Killycarnan is rich in history. You can visit Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery founded in the 6th century, known for its crumbling walls and interesting graveyard. Another significant historical landmark is the Clones Round Tower, a prominent feature on Clones' skyline dating back to around the 10th century. For castle ruins, explore Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins, both set within expansive nature reserves.
Are there any natural features or parks to visit near Killycarnan?
Yes, the region offers several beautiful natural areas. Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are situated within important nature conservation areas on the shores of Upper Lough Erne, featuring ancient woodlands and diverse wildlife. Rossmore Forest Park, though not directly in Killycarnan, offers extensive walking and cycling trails through ancient woodlands and past lakes. Lake Muckno near Castleblayney is another popular spot for water sports and strolls.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
You can enjoy various outdoor activities. For running, consider routes like the 'Old Crom Castle (Ruins) loop' or 'Dummys Lough loop'. Cyclists can explore longer routes such as 'Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop' or 'Scotshouse, Redhills and Belturbet loop'. Hiking is also popular, with easy trails like the 'Crom Estate Trail' and loops around the Crom Castle Boathouse. You can find more details on these activities in the Running Trails around Killycarnan, Road Cycling Routes around Killycarnan, and Easy hikes around Killycarnan guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Killycarnan?
Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. Both Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are listed as family-friendly, offering opportunities to explore historical sites within natural settings. The Crom Estate also features woodlands and a lake, providing space for children to enjoy nature. Killykeen Forest Park in County Cavan is another excellent option with family-friendly cycle trails and forest walks.
What are some easy walking trails near Killycarnan?
For easy walks, the Easy hikes around Killycarnan guide lists several options. The 'Crom Estate Trail' is an easy 4 km walk. You can also find easy loops around the Crom Estate, such as the 'Crom Castle Boathouse – Crom Castle loop' (7.2 km) and the 'Old Crom Castle Ruins – Crom Estate Castle Ruins loop' (4.2 km). These trails offer pleasant strolls through scenic landscapes.
What is the best time to visit County Monaghan for outdoor activities?
The best time to visit County Monaghan for outdoor activities generally depends on your preference. Spring and summer (April to September) offer milder weather, longer daylight hours, and lush green landscapes, ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring natural parks like Rossmore Forest Park and Lake Muckno. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer crisp, quiet walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there any dog-friendly options for trails or attractions?
While specific dog-friendly policies for each highlight are not detailed, many forest parks and outdoor trails in County Monaghan are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. Rossmore Forest Park and Killykeen Forest Park are good examples of places where you can typically enjoy walks with your dog. Always check local signage for specific rules at each location.
Where can I find accommodation or places to eat near Killycarnan?
While Killycarnan itself is primarily agricultural, the broader County Monaghan area offers amenities. Monaghan town, Clones, and Castleblayney are nearby towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and accommodation. For a more luxurious stay, the Castle Leslie Estate offers accommodation and dining within a picturesque setting. The Crom Estate also has a coffee shop on site.
What makes the Crom Estate a significant place to visit?
The Crom Estate, managed by the National Trust, is a large nature reserve featuring woodlands, a lake, and castle ruins. It's considered one of Ireland's most important nature conservation areas, home to wild deer, pine martens, red squirrels, and rare species of bats and lichens. Visitors can explore the ancient woodland, tranquil islands, and the historical Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins, all set against the backdrop of Upper Lough Erne.
Can I go wild swimming near Killycarnan?
While specific wild swimming spots near Killycarnan are not highlighted, Lake Muckno near Castleblayney is a popular spot for various water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding, which might offer opportunities for swimming. Always exercise caution, check local regulations, and prioritize safety when considering wild swimming in any natural body of water.
What is the significance of Clones Town in the region?
Clones Town, located in western County Monaghan, is historically significant. It boasts landmarks such as the Clones Round Tower and the Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery. The town also features a Celtic High Cross and a Motte and Bailey Fort, offering insights into the area's rich past and providing views of the local landscape.
Are there any viewpoints offering scenic vistas?
Yes, Old Crom Castle Ruins is noted as a viewpoint, offering scenic vistas over Upper Lough Erne. Additionally, the Crom Castle Boathouse provides splendid views out onto the water, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the scenery.
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