Attractions and places to see around Coolback include a variety of historical sites and natural viewpoints. The area is characterized by its connection to Lough Erne and features several ancient ruins and monuments. Visitors can explore a range of landscapes, from forest clifftops to serene lake views. Coolback offers 12 distinct places to discover.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
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
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Coolback.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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
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.
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
The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
1
1
Coolback is rich in history, offering several fascinating sites. You can visit Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle ruin set on a forest clifftop. Another significant historical ruin is Necarne Castle, which served as a military hospital during WWII. For ancient history, explore Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, featuring a graveyard with unique historical stones like the 'Bishops stone' and a holed stone.
Yes, the Coolback area features several ancient sites. Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones is a notable archaeological site with a graveyard containing ancient stones, including a 'Bishops stone' and a holed stone, suggesting early Christian and possibly pre-Christian significance. Additionally, the ruins of Old Castle Archdale date back to the 1600s, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
For serene views, head to Rossmore Point Beacon, which offers picturesque vistas over Lough Erne, complete with a bench to relax and enjoy the scenery. The area around Old Castle Archdale also provides scenic forest clifftop views.
Yes, Lough Erne is a prominent feature of the Coolback area. Rossmore Point Beacon is a man-made monument directly on the lough, offering tranquil views across its waters. Many of the attractions and routes in the region are situated near or provide views of Lough Erne, highlighting its natural beauty.
Yes, Coolback offers attractions suitable for families. The Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings are considered family-friendly and sometimes host exhibitions. Additionally, Rossmore Point Beacon is a great spot for families to enjoy lake views and a peaceful setting.
The Coolback area is excellent for outdoor activities, especially hiking and cycling. You can find numerous routes that pass by or lead to attractions. For hiking, explore options like the 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide and cycling guide for Coolback.
Yes, Coolback offers hiking trails for various skill levels, including easy options. For instance, routes like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' and 'Necarne Woods via Necarne Castle' are rated as easy. You can discover more easy trails and detailed route information in the easy hikes guide around Coolback.
Absolutely! Coolback provides several cycling opportunities that allow you to explore the area's attractions. Routes like the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' and 'Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale loop' are popular. For more cycling routes and details, refer to the cycling guide around Coolback.
Visitors to Coolback appreciate the blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty. They enjoy wandering the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale, imagining its past, and taking in the serene views over Lough Erne from spots like Rossmore Point Beacon. The historical significance of sites like Killadeas Priory Church also captivates those interested in the region's heritage.
Coolback's landscape is characterized by its connection to Lough Erne, offering beautiful lake views. You'll also find significant forest areas, such as the coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest surrounding Old Castle Archdale, which sits on a forest clifftop. The region provides a mix of tranquil waterscapes and lush woodlands.
Yes, the Coolback area has connections to World War II. Necarne Castle, once known as Irvine Castle, was used as a military hospital during the war. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings were part of a major base for flying boats, housing up to 2,500 RAF personnel, and sometimes host exhibitions detailing this period.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: