The best walks and hikes around Ely Island
4.9
(10)
131
hikers
20
hikes
Hiking around Ely Island features a landscape characterized by its island setting, historical sites, and woodlands. The terrain is generally gentle, with low elevation gains, making it accessible for various hiking abilities. Routes often lead through wooded areas, past historical castles, and along the shores of the island. This combination offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural interest for hikers.
Best hiking trails around Ely Island
- The most popular hiking route is Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island,…
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)
16
hikers
2.01km
00:32
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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
How many hiking trails are available around Ely Island?
There are over 20 hiking routes available around Ely Island. The network offers a variety of options, with 17 routes classified as easy and 3 as moderate, making it accessible for different ability levels.
What is the general difficulty level of hiking trails around Ely Island?
The hiking trails around Ely Island are generally gentle, with low elevation gains. Most routes are classified as easy, with a few moderate options, making them suitable for a wide range of hikers.
Are there any historical landmarks or castles to see while hiking on Ely Island?
Yes, the area is rich in historical sites. Many routes lead past impressive structures such as Old Castle Archdale, Tully Castle Ruins, and Necarne Castle. You can explore these historical attractions while enjoying the island's natural beauty.
Can I find circular hiking routes on Ely Island?
Yes, there are several circular routes available. For example, the Castle Archdale loop is a popular 2.7-mile (4.3 km) trail that takes you through wooded parkland and returns to your starting point.
Are the trails around Ely Island suitable for families with children?
Given the gentle terrain and the prevalence of easy routes, many trails around Ely Island are well-suited for families. The low elevation gains and scenic paths through woodlands and past historical sites offer an enjoyable experience for all ages.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Ely Island?
The routes in Ely Island are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 130 hikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the blend of natural beauty and cultural interest.
Are there any trails that offer views of the surrounding lakes or islands?
Absolutely. Many trails provide scenic views of the surrounding waterways and islands. For instance, the route Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island offers picturesque island scenery, and you can find viewpoints like View of Tom's Island along the paths.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the hiking trails around Ely Island?
The terrain around Ely Island is generally gentle, characterized by woodlands and island paths. You'll often find yourself walking through wooded areas and along the shores, with low elevation gains, making for a pleasant hiking experience.
Are there specific trails that lead to historical castles?
Yes, several trails are designed to showcase the region's rich history. For example, the Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle trail winds through woodlands and directly past the historic Necarne Castle, offering a glimpse into the past.
Can I access facilities like marinas or jetties along the hiking routes?
Yes, some routes provide access to facilities. The Castle Archdale Marina – Rossmore Point Beacon loop, for instance, passes by Castle Archdale Marina, offering a convenient stop or starting point.
What is a good trail for a shorter, easy walk to see historical sites?
For a shorter, easy walk with historical interest, consider the Tully Castle Ruins loop from Heron Island. This 2.0 km (1.2 miles) route is an excellent option to explore historical ruins without a long commitment.
Most popular attractions around Ely Island
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