Attractions and Places To See around Templenaffrin - Top 19
Best attractions and places to see around Templenaffrin encompass historical sites and natural landscapes in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. The area is notable for the ruins of Templenaffrin Church and its ancient graveyard, providing a connection to centuries of local history. Surrounding the village, the region offers significant natural monuments and trails for outdoor exploration. These attractions around Templenaffrin provide insights into both cultural heritage and geological formations.
Best attractions and places to see around Templenaffrin
- The most popular attractions…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven)
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Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave
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Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park
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Florence Court
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Cavan Burren Park Megalithic Stones
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The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, affectionately known as the "Stairway to Heaven," offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through one of Northern Ireland's most stunning landscapes. Spanning approximately 11 km round-trip, the trail meanders through expansive blanket bogs before culminating in a steep ascent of 450 wooden steps to a viewing platform atop Cuilcagh Mountain. Hikers are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lowlands, including glimpses of counties Cavan, Leitrim, and Donegal on clear days. While the boardwalk was constructed to protect the delicate bog ecosystem, it has also made the trail more accessible, attracting over 60,000 visitors annually.
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Incredible Stone-Age park, with some technical trails. Massive mythological sacred stones worshipped over centuries, will follow you when adventuring into this unique geological and archaeological forest landscape.
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Ideal starting point for the hike to the Stairway to Heaven, there are a total of 3 parking spaces available. Some spaces are reserved for larger vehicles/motorhomes; the steward will direct you when reversing. Parking fee of 5 GBP or 6 Euros must be paid in cash to the steward.
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Florence Court House is a magnificent 18th-century country estate situated in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain. The house is amongst a medley of lush green parkland and thick woodland with sights of the wonderful Benaughlin Mountain in the distance. The house is now owned by the National Trust and is open to explore daily. For more information regarding opening times and ticket prices visit https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/florence-court
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Strenuous but rewarding path on footbridges over the high moor. Pretty well known through insta, so sm best come first thing in the morning
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Many of Ireland’s megalithic monuments—portal tombs, court cairns, or wedge tombs such as this one—are known locally as “the giant’s grave.” But this one, on a hilltop in Co. Cavan’s Burren Forest Park, has a giant story to go along with its name. According to Harold Johnson, from the nearby town of Blacklion, the giant, attempting to impress a lady, failed in his final attempt to jump the nearby chasm, which is, of course, called “The Giant’s Leap.” Harold Johnson relates this story in some detail, while seated on the Giant’s Grave, in the video, below right. Mr. Johnson also was our guide, and provided the narration, for our feature on the Killinagh Cursing Stones, located on the opposite side of the town of Blacklion. (https://voicesfromthedawn.com/burren-giants-grave/)
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Nestled in the foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain, Florence Court is a wonderful Georgian mansion surrounded by picturesque countryside. The first house was built by John Cole at the beginning of the 18th century and named after his wife, Florence. The Cole family lived in the house for over 250 years. Today, the estate is managed by the National Trust. There are over 10 miles (16 km) of hiking and bike trails to explore the grounds. You can visit a water-powered sawmill and blacksmith's forge that reveal the area's industrial heritage. There's also a beautiful Irish yew tree, Florence Court Yew, which is one of two original Irish Yew discovered in 1767. There is a small entrance fee to the gardens and forest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Templenaffrin?
Templenaffrin is known for its rich history. You can visit the evocative ruins of Templenaffrin Church and its ancient graveyard, which offer a glimpse into centuries of local heritage. Additionally, explore the Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave, a historical site featuring megalithic tombs in the Burren Forest, steeped in local legends.
What natural attractions are there around Templenaffrin?
The region boasts significant natural beauty. The most popular natural attraction is the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail (Stairway to Heaven), which leads across impressive moorland to a summit plateau. You can also ascend to the Cuilcagh Mountain Summit for extensive views after a challenging hike.
Are there any challenging hikes with great views?
Yes, the Cuilcagh Mountain Summit offers a challenging 11 km round-trip hike. It involves ascending 450 wooden steps through blanket bogs to a viewing platform, rewarding you with fantastic, extensive views. The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail itself is also strenuous but highly rewarding.
What outdoor activities are available around Templenaffrin?
Beyond exploring attractions, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. There are numerous hiking trails, including easy and difficult options. The area is also popular for road cycling and mountain biking. You can find detailed routes and guides for hiking, road cycling, and MTB trails around Templenaffrin.
Are there family-friendly attractions or walks in the area?
Yes, Florence Court is a family-friendly destination. This magnificent 18th-century country estate offers lush green parkland and thick woodland to explore, with over 10 miles (16 km) of hiking and bike trails suitable for various ages. You can also visit a water-powered sawmill and blacksmith's forge.
What is the best time of year to visit Templenaffrin for outdoor activities?
While specific recommendations for Templenaffrin are not available, the Fermanagh Lakelands region generally offers pleasant conditions for outdoor activities during the spring and summer months (April to September), when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit.
Where can I park when visiting attractions like the Cuilcagh Boardwalk?
For the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, parking is available at the Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park. It serves as an ideal starting point for the hike. Please note that a parking fee (typically 5 GBP or 6 Euros) must be paid in cash to the steward.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions or facilities?
The Cuilcagh Mountain Park Car Park, which is the starting point for the Cuilcagh Boardwalk, is noted as wheelchair accessible. However, the boardwalk trail itself involves a steep ascent with many steps, making it challenging for wheelchair users beyond the initial sections.
What is the history behind Templenaffrin Church and Graveyard?
The Templenaffrin Church and Graveyard are primarily known for their evocative ruins, situated on a stony mound near Belcoo. Historical accounts suggest the site might have been built upon an older pagan cairn. While its precise origins are a mystery, it's mentioned in a 1603 survey. The graveyard contains moss-laden gravestones, including one believed to be for Rev. Charles Scallogue from 1670, offering a serene historical experience.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail?
Visitors frequently praise the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail for its excellently laid-out boardwalk through a wonderful moor landscape. The strenuous but rewarding path leads to a breathtaking view from the summit, making the effort worthwhile. Many appreciate the unique experience of hiking across the impressive moorland to a historic Bronze Age burial mound.
Can I find easy walks near Templenaffrin?
Yes, there are easy hiking options available. For example, the 'Belmore Forest loop via Pollnagollum Cave' is an easy 6 km hike. Another easy option is 'Marble Arch Caves via Cladagh River', which is about 3.4 km. You can explore more easy routes in the hiking guide for Templenaffrin.
Are there any hidden gems to discover around Templenaffrin?
While not explicitly 'hidden,' the Giant's Grave & Giant's Cave in the Burren Forest offers a unique blend of history and local folklore, providing a less conventional experience compared to the more popular trails. The ancient Templenaffrin Church and Graveyard also offer a secluded and reflective historical visit.
Most popular attractions around Templenaffrin
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