Discover Belturbet

Belturbet lies on the River Erne. For a stay, local history, walking routes and life by the water offer different areas of focus. The railway museum and historic sites introduce cultural themes; Turbet Island combines a waymarked route with Belturbet’s built, natural and cultural heritage. The town is also in the heart of the UNESCO Geopark in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. If you are looking for a hotel in Belturbet, these interests can help you organise your plans for each day of your stay.

The River Erne and the landscape of County Cavan

The Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs complex, which is linked to Belturbet, stretches across large parts of the lowland drumlin belt in northern and central County Cavan, between Belturbet, Killeshandra and Cavan Town. It is designated as an SAC, SPA and NHA. Waterways, islands, small lakes and peninsulas shape this wider landscape. Protected species such as the mute swan and Greenland white-fronted goose live along the River Erne. The area’s varied waterscape is therefore a key feature of the surroundings, alongside the town’s history.

Railway and town history

Belturbet railway station was built in 1885, fully restored and now houses an exhibition on the history of the railway age in Cavan. The Belturbet Heritage Railway Museum offers guided, self-guided and virtual tours. These different formats give you a range of ways to explore the history of the railway.

The Town Hall is also part of the town’s character: this distinctive building houses Belturbet Library as well as a space for civic and arts events. Turbet Island is home to an Anglo-Norman motte-and-bailey. A well-interpreted trail there introduces Belturbet’s built, natural and cultural heritage. The railway station, Town Hall and Turbet Island each represent different aspects of Belturbet.

Two routes, different ways to plan

The Belturbet Heritage Trail starts in the centre at the Diamond, opposite the historic Town Hall. Kilconny Quay is one of the route’s features. The trail is an easy walk and takes about 50 minutes. Turbet Island also has a short, waymarked and interpreted walking trail along the River Erne; it is 1.6 kilometres long. One description gives you an approximate time for a route starting in the town centre, while the other gives a specific distance for the route on the island.

Turbet Island is easy to reach by car or on foot. When choosing a suitable walk, you can take into account the starting point at the Diamond and the approximate duration of the Heritage Trail, or follow the waymarked route on Turbet Island.

Boating and trout fishing

The River Erne offers opportunities for boating and cruises in Belturbet. Below Belturbet, the river is navigable as far as Upper Lough Erne and beyond. For a specific boat trip, it is advisable to check the current options in advance.

A 2024 county angling guide describes the stretch of river from above the town bridge at Kilconny to the railway viaduct as having been developed for trout fishing by the local Trout Angling Club. The guide notes a good variety of fly hatches, for which wet and dry patterns are suitable. If you plan to fish there, check the regulations in force in advance. This can help you better factor in the options on the River Erne, whether you are interested in fishing or boating.

Discover more destinations: Cootehill, Arvagh, Ballyhugh, Ballyconnell, Dowra, Cavan, Mullagh, Cloverhill

For the broader travel overview: County Cavan.