Attractions and Places To See around Derrymakeen - Top 6
Best attractions and places to see around Derrymakeen are primarily found in the broader region, as Derrymakeen itself is a small townland in County Cork, Ireland. Situated at an elevation of over 100 meters above the River Bandon, the area offers a quiet, rural setting. While specific landmarks within Derrymakeen are limited, the surrounding County Cork provides a variety of historical sites and natural features for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Derrymakeen
- The most popular attractions is…
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
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Ancient Chestnut Tree
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Castle Coole
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Devenish Monastic Site
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Devenish Island Round Tower
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Along the Beech Trail, you'll discover some of the oldest trees on the estate, including Oak and the sprawling limbs of this Horse Chestnut, forming a natural arch over the path.
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Devenish Monastic Site is generally considered to be the most important of Lough Erne's many island church settlements. Devenish was founded in the 6th century by St Molaise. It was raided by Vikings in 837 and burned in 1157, but in the Middle Ages flourished as the site of a parish church and St Mary's Augustinian Priory. There are extensive low earthworks on the hillside, but the earliest buildings are St Molaise's House (a very small church) and the fine round tower close by, both with striking Romanesque decorations from the 12th century. Teampull Mór, the lower church, dates from the early 13th century and has a beautifully moulded south window. It was extended to the east in about 1300, while later additions include a residential wing to the north and the Maguire Chapel to the south, with 17th century heraldic slabs. St Mary's Augustinian Priory on the hilltop dates from the middle 15th and early 16th centuries, with church, tower and small north cloister. In its graveyard stands an unusual, intricately-carved cross of the middle 15th century. - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Devenish_Island - https://web.archive.org/web/20120224043140/http://www.culturenorthernireland.org/article.aspx?art_id=746
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Founded by Saint Laisrén mac Nad Froích (aka St Molaise) in the 6th century, the monastic site was built on a pilgrimage route to Croagh Patrick. As you view the Island from Trory Pier you can see the 25 metre tall 12th century round tower standing majestically above the ruined buildings. The tower has wooden floors and can be climbed by the public via a series of ladders. The tower is decorated with 12th century romanesque features, the most unusual feature is a beaded cornice running around the top of tower with head sculpture featured above the bell-storey windows. - http://www.megalithicireland.com/Devenish%20Round%20Tower.html - https://archive.ph/20121224010315/http://www.ni-environment.gov.uk/places/monuments/devenish.shtml#selection-1091.0-1091.30
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The magnificent Enniskillen Castle is situated in the heart of Enniskillen on the banks of the River Erne. The castle was founded in the 15th century by Hugh 'The Hospitable' Maguire and belonged to the Maguire family for centuries. Between 2007 and 2013 a massive refurbishment took place so that the castle could be opened to the public. Today you can explore the castle grounds and learn about this landmarks rich history.
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Run past the beautiful Castle Coole, a magnificent 18th century manor house set in a gorgeous 1,200 acre wooded landscape park.
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Castle Coole is one of the most magnificent Neo-classical houses in Ireland set in a 1,200 acre (490 ha) wooded estate. Built in the 18th century, the grand mansion was home to the Earls of Belmore. The 7th Earl Belmore gave the manion to the National Trust in 1951. The house was originally constructed as a summer retreat and cost £57,000, the equivalent of around £20 million today. It is set amongst beautiful parklands dotted with oak, ash and beech trees. Some of the land is given to local farmers to graze their cattle and sheep. You can visit the mansion and its grounds for an insight of how life would once have been for its wealthy inhabitants and their staff. Entrance to the grounds costs £5 per adult.
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Built in the 16th century, Enniskillen Castle has many stories to tell – from Irish rebellions against English rule to sieges and protection from the threat of French invasion. In the 1950s, the castle was decommissioned as an army barracks and opened as a heritage centre. Today, you can visit the museum to learn about the region's history. The castle is open from 9.30am to 5pm (Monday to Friday) and from 11am - 5pm on weekends.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Derrymakeen?
The region offers several significant historical sites. You can explore Enniskillen Castle, a 16th-century fortress with a museum detailing local history. Another notable site is Castle Coole, an 18th-century Neo-classical mansion set within extensive parklands. For ancient history, the Devenish Monastic Site, founded in the 6th century, features a round tower and medieval church ruins.
Are there any natural features or monuments to see?
Yes, you can discover the Ancient Chestnut Tree along the Beech Trail, which forms a natural arch over the path and is one of the estate's oldest trees. The areas around attractions like Castle Coole also feature beautiful parklands with oak, ash, and beech trees.
What outdoor activities are available near these attractions?
You can find various outdoor activities, particularly running and cycling. For running, explore routes like the 'Lough Coole and Castle Coole running loop' or the 'Enniskillen and Portora Castle running loop'. Cycling options include the 'Lough Erne and Ballyshannon loop' for road cycling or the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail' for touring. You can find more details on these routes in the Running Trails around Derrymakeen, Road Cycling Routes around Derrymakeen, and Cycling around Derrymakeen guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Derrymakeen?
Many attractions are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle offers an engaging historical museum. The grounds of Castle Coole provide ample space for exploration and picnics. The Ancient Chestnut Tree is also a fun natural landmark for children to discover.
What kind of routes can I find for running near Derrymakeen?
There are several running routes available, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Examples include the 'Race Course Lough via Forthill Park running loop' (easy, 4.1 km) and the 'Lough Coole and Castle Coole running loop from Enniskillen' (moderate, 7.5 km). For longer runs, consider the 'Castle Coole – Lough Coole loop' (13.8 km). More options are detailed in the Running Trails around Derrymakeen guide.
Can I go cycling around the attractions?
Yes, the area offers various cycling routes. For road cyclists, there's the 'Bishop's Stone loop from Enniskillen' (easy, 33.6 km) or the more challenging 'Lough Erne and Ballyshannon loop' (difficult, 136.7 km). Touring cyclists might enjoy the 'Derrygonnelly & Boho loop' (difficult, 52.8 km) or sections of 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail'. Find more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Derrymakeen and Cycling around Derrymakeen guides.
What is the Devenish Monastic Site, and what can I see there?
The Devenish Monastic Site is an important island church settlement founded in the 6th century by St Molaise. Visitors can see a well-preserved 12th-century round tower (Devenish Island Round Tower), the ruins of Teampull Mór (the lower church), and St Mary's Augustinian Priory. The site offers a deep dive into medieval Irish history and religious heritage.
What is the difficulty level of the cycling routes?
Cycling routes vary in difficulty. You can find easy routes like the 'Bishop's Stone loop' (33.6 km) for road cycling, moderate options such as the 'Lough Barry – Lough Corban loop' (46.7 km) for touring, and challenging long-distance routes like 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail' (159.6 km). Always check the specific route details in the Road Cycling Routes around Derrymakeen and Cycling around Derrymakeen guides for elevation and terrain.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in this region?
Visitors appreciate the rich history and natural beauty. The historical sites like Enniskillen Castle and Castle Coole offer insights into past eras, with their impressive architecture and extensive grounds. The natural elements, such as the ancient trees and scenic parklands, are also highly valued for their tranquility and picturesque settings.
Are there any lesser-known historical gems to explore?
Beyond the main castles, the Devenish Monastic Site offers a fascinating glimpse into early Christian Ireland. Its remote island location and well-preserved ruins, including the iconic Devenish Island Round Tower, provide a unique historical experience away from more crowded spots.
How long are the running routes available?
Running routes vary in length to suit different fitness levels. You can find shorter, easy loops like the 'Race Course Lough via Forthill Park running loop' at approximately 4.1 km. Moderate routes include the 'Enniskillen and Portora Castle running loop' at about 5.2 km, and longer options such as the 'Castle Coole – Lough Coole loop' which can be up to 13.8 km. Check the Running Trails around Derrymakeen guide for specific distances.
What kind of landscape can I expect on the cycling routes?
The cycling routes traverse diverse landscapes, from the shores of Lough Erne to wooded estates and rural roads. Expect a mix of flat sections and rolling hills, especially on longer routes. The 'Lough Erne and Ballyshannon loop' offers extensive lakeside views, while routes around Castle Coole wind through scenic parklands.
Most popular routes around Derrymakeen
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