The best walks and hikes around Drumshane
4.9
(10)
119
hikers
14
hikes
Hiking around Drumshane, located in County Leitrim, offers a diverse landscape for outdoor activities. The region is characterized by a mountainous and hilly environment at the foot of Sliabh an Iarainn, with picturesque rolling hills. Lough Allen and Acres Lake provide scenic beauty, including Ireland's first floating boardwalk. The area also serves as a starting point for the Shannon Blueway, a network of trails along the River Shannon.
Best hiking trails around Drumshane
- The most popular hiking route is Old…
Last updated: April 29, 2026
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
4.61km
01:12
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
8
hikers
5.20km
01:22
40m
40m
Hike an easy 3.2-mile (5.2 km) trail through Necarne Woods and past the historic Necarne Castle, perfect for a relaxing walk.
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4
hikers
4.28km
01:09
50m
50m
Easy 2.7-mile hike through Castle Archdale Country Park, offering woodland paths, Lough Erne views, and historical sites.
4.5
(2)
28
hikers
3.69km
00:59
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
12.0km
03:10
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Drumshane
Tips from the Community
A hive of activity, the marina at Castle Archdale is full of things to do. Why not park your bike and pedal on water on one of the hydrobikes? Kayaks, paddleboards and boats are also available to hire. Or if you're looking for a break, this is a great place to stop and take it all in.
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During WW2 Castle Archdale was a major base for flying boats and housed up to 2,500 people. Buildings such as these would have been a central location for the RAF fighters who lived here. Sometimes exhibitions are held in these courtyards to display some of the key historical notes of the use of this area during the war.
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A white beacon marks the location of Rossmore Point. There is a bench to sit on here where you can enjoy serene views over Lough Erne.
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Beautiful views over Lough Erne toward Tom's Island. Tom's Island is actually no longer an island, but once was before the lough was lowered.
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Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle was built in the 1600s and was the main castle on this former estate before its successor took it's place in the 1800s, Castle Archdale.
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Take in the fabulous views of Lower Lough Erne from this point. Directly ahead you will see Crevinisaughy and Inishmakill island. These are one of the many islands found in this large lake system that is in fact widened sections of the River Erne as it flows towards the Alantic.
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Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop. It is named 'old' to distinguish it from its successor, the 18th century Castle Archdale. The castle was built by an Englishman from Suffolk who had been granted the estate in 1612 after paying 5 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence for the 1000 acres of land. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641 the castle was captured by Rory Maguire as part of the uprising to retake his lands that had been lost in 1607. The heir to the castle was saved by his nurse however the other children were killed. After the castle was returned to the family it was repaired and lived in until 1689. The castle saw its end during the Williamite Wars when the castle was burnt out and abandoned.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking trails around Drumshane?
The Drumshane area is characterized by a mountainous and hilly environment, particularly at the foot of Sliabh an Iarainn. You'll find picturesque rolling hills and scenic lake views, especially around Lough Allen and Acres Lake. The trails offer a mix of woodlands, lakeside paths, and open terrain.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Drumshane offers many easy trails. Out of the 14 available routes, 12 are rated as easy. For example, the Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island trail is an easy 2.9-mile route that explores historical ruins and offers lake views.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while hiking in Drumshane?
Hikers can enjoy a variety of natural and historical landmarks. You might encounter the scenic Rossmore Point Beacon, explore the area around Castle Archdale Marina, or take in views of Tom's Island. The region is also home to Lough Allen and Acres Lake, which features Ireland's first floating boardwalk.
Are there any historical sites or ruins accessible via hiking trails?
Absolutely. Many trails lead past historical sites. You can explore the ruins of Old Castle Archdale or visit Necarne Castle. The Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle trail is an easy 3.2-mile path that winds through woodlands and past the historic castle.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Drumshane area?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. A popular option is the Castle Archdale loop, a 2.7-mile trail that takes you through varied terrain near Lough Erne. Another is the Castle Archdale Marina – Rossmore Point Beacon loop.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Drumshane?
The trails in Drumshane are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 10 reviews. Hikers often praise the scenic lake views, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to explore historical sites.
Is Drumshane a good destination for family-friendly hikes?
Yes, Drumshane is well-suited for family-friendly hikes, with many easy routes that are manageable for all ages. The presence of attractions like Acres Lake with its floating boardwalk and historical castles makes for engaging outings for families.
Are there options for longer or more challenging hikes in Drumshane?
While most routes are easy, there are a couple of moderate options for those seeking a bit more challenge. For instance, the Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop is a moderate 7.5-mile route that offers a longer exploration of the area.
Where can I find more information about the Drumshane area and its outdoor activities?
For additional information about Drumshane and its broader appeal for outdoor activities, you can visit the official Leitrim Tourism website: leitrimtourism.com. The Sliabh an Iarainn Visitor Centre also provides insights into the local area.
Are there any trails that are part of a larger network?
Yes, Drumshane serves as a starting point for the Shannon Blueway, which is a network of trails along the River Shannon and its associated lakes. This offers opportunities for longer walks and cycling adventures beyond the immediate Drumshane trails.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
The diverse landscapes of Drumshane, including woodlands, lakeshores, and rolling hills, provide habitats for various wildlife. While specific sightings can vary, you might spot local bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life around Lough Allen and Acres Lake.
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