Attractions and Places To See around Beagh Big - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Beagh Big include a rich grassland Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) known for its diverse vegetation and rare plant species. This area is part of the broader Slieve Beagh mountainous region, which spans counties Monaghan, Fermanagh, and Tyrone. The landscape features significant blanket bogs, numerous small lakes, and streams, offering a variety of natural and historical points of interest. Visitors can explore a blend of ecological sites, ancient monuments, and scenic routes…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Tully Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Beagh Big.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
1
0
In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
0
0
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.
2
0
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.
2
0
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.
1
0
This fortified house is on Tully Point and built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked by John Maguire and burned on Christmas Eve with all its inhabitants massacred. After that it was not lived in again. There is a visitors centre in a restored farmhouse that has an interesting exhibition telling a number of stories relating to the castle. To visit the castle be sure to step off the bike as it is on foot only!
1
0
Perched atop a cliff and surrounded by thick forest, it's easy to imagine how life would have been hundreds of years ago as you wander the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale. Built in 1615 by Englishman John Archdale, the castle was captured by the Irish in the Irish Rebellion of 1641. The castle was inhabited until 1689, when it was destroyed by fire and abandoned.
0
0
This fortified house and bawn are set on Tully Point and were built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked and burned on Christmas Eve by Rory Maguire and the inhabitants massacred. It was not lived in again. A visitor’s centre, located in a restored farmhouse, houses an exhibition telling local stories relating to the castle. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tully-castle-p675521)
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in the Beagh Big area?
The Beagh Big area, part of the larger Slieve Beagh region, is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the Beagh Big ASSI Grasslands, known for diverse vegetation and rare plant species like adder's tongue fern and cowslip. The Slieve Beagh Blanket Bog is another significant feature, being the third-largest blanket bog in Northern Ireland and a Ramsar site, characterized by unique Sphagnum mosses and rare peatland flora. The area also features numerous small lakes and streams, including Lough Sallagh, which host unique aquatic life.
Are there hiking opportunities around Beagh Big?
Yes, the Slieve Beagh mountainous area offers stunning landscapes for hikers. The Sliabh Beagh Way is a long walking path, approximately 25 miles (40 kilometers), that traverses rolling hills with extensive views. Within the region, you can also find the Eshbrack Bog Trail, showcasing the unique peatland ecosystem. For easier walks, consider routes like the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or the 'Cliffs of Magho loop'.
What historical sites are there to visit around Beagh Big?
The region is home to several historical sites. You can visit the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, unique pre-Christian stone figures on Boa Island. Explore the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle ruin, or the fortified Tully Castle Ruins, which was attacked and burned in 1641. Additionally, the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones offer a glimpse into ancient religious history with unique carved stones.
Can I go cycling near Beagh Big?
Absolutely! The area around Beagh Big provides various cycling routes. You can find options ranging from easy to difficult, such as the 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop' or longer routes like 'Enniskillen Castle – Enniskillen Castle loop'. For more details and route options, check out the Cycling around Beagh Big guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Beagh Big?
Yes, there are attractions suitable for families. The Tully Castle Ruins offer an interesting historical site with a visitor's centre that tells local stories. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings also provide a family-friendly historical experience, sometimes hosting exhibitions about the area's role during WWII.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the Slieve Beagh region?
The Slieve Beagh region is home to diverse flora and fauna. The peatland flora includes rare species such as cowberry and specific Sphagnum mosses. The area's lakes, like Lough Sallagh, host rare upland beetles and unique invertebrates. Birdwatchers might spot a breeding population of red grouse, golden plover, and hen harrier.
What is the 'Three County Hollow'?
The 'Three County Hollow' is a notable landmark within the Slieve Beagh area. It marks the unique geographical point where the three counties of Monaghan, Fermanagh, and Tyrone meet.
What is the significance of the Bragan Penal Cross?
The Bragan Penal Cross, also known as Leacht a 'tSagairt, is a large Celtic cross located on Slieve Beagh. It marks a Mass rock and holds significant cultural history, as local oral tradition states a priest was shot there by a priest hunter around 1754 while saying Mass.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Beagh Big?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. Highlights like the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery and the castle ruins offer unique historical insights. The scenic landscapes, especially around Slieve Beagh Mountain, are popular for their panoramic views and opportunities for outdoor activities. The komoot community has shared 13 photos and given 12 upvotes, indicating a positive experience with the diverse offerings.
Are there running trails available near Beagh Big?
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity of Beagh Big. You can find routes of varying difficulty, from moderate loops like 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Castle Archdale Marina loop' to more challenging options such as 'Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop'. For a comprehensive list of trails, refer to the Running Trails around Beagh Big guide.
What is the highest point in the Slieve Beagh area?
The highest point in the Slieve Beagh mountainous area, specifically in County Monaghan, is located on Slieve Beagh itself, reaching an elevation of 373 meters (1,224 feet). This vantage point offers panoramic views across the three counties of Monaghan, Tyrone, and Fermanagh.
Most popular attractions around Beagh Big
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
