Discover Fermanagh

The Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark spans County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland and County Cavan in the Republic of Ireland. In Fermanagh, manor houses, historic sites and striking landscapes come together with opportunities for walking, cycling and experiences on the water. When planning a trip, you can focus on trails through bog and woodland, visit museums or explore the cave world of the Marble Arch Caves.

Manor houses, gardens and historic places

Castle Coole is an 18th-century manor house and is among Ireland’s notable neoclassical houses. Two walking trails run alongside the lake there; along the way, there are opportunities to spot seasonal wildlife and see the manor house. A walk here brings together architecture and nature, with wildlife sightings shaped by the season.

Florence Court also combines an 18th-century residence with an extensive landscape of gardens, parkland and woodland. A trail through the forest park leads to the highest point, which offers views across Fermanagh and beyond. The estate’s natural heritage also includes the original Irish yew: it is 250 years old and is considered the parent plant of Irish yews worldwide.

Crom’s 2,000-acre estate consists of tranquil islands and ancient woodland that provides a habitat for abundant wildlife. The 17th-century ruins now form a secluded monument with views over the lake. Those who want to experience Crom on the water as well as on foot can also take boat trips on Lough Erne; availability and operators may change.

Walking trails, bog landscapes and caves

The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail passes through one of Northern Ireland’s largest areas of blanket bog. The landscape also tells the story of life in the past: abandoned Irish cottages, dry stone walls and potato-growing ridges known as “lazy beds”, considered remnants of Ireland’s cultural heritage, lie along the trail. The trail climbs steeply through rugged rocky terrain to a viewing platform. Before setting out, check access notices and trail conditions; weather and trail conditions can vary.

The Scarplands Cycle Trail offers a different way to explore the area. The linear route starts in Belcoo, ends at Lough Navar Forest and is 60 kilometres long. This makes it quite different from the walking trails around manor houses and bogland: the focus here is a longer cycle ride between two specified endpoints. Forestry work and trail conditions may affect access.

The landscape around the Marble Arch Caves includes caves, rivers, mountains, ancient woodland, waterfalls and gorges. On guided cave tours, constructed paths and subtle lighting lead through the cave and reveal its formations. The guided format shapes the visit and offers a contrast to the open landscapes along the walking trails.

Culture, museums and experiences on the water

Enniskillen Castle was built almost 600 years ago by the ruling Gaelic Maguire family on the River Erne. The historic site is home to the Fermanagh County Museum and The Inniskillings Museum. Visitors can also explore seven galleries that tell the story of the region from prehistoric times to the modern era. The Fermanagh Visitor Information Centre is also located at Enniskillen Castle. This brings historic exhibitions and visitor information together in one place.

In Belleek, the Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre has been welcoming visitors since 1857. A 30-minute tour shows the 16 steps of pottery making; tour content may change. For travellers interested in crafts, this visit offers a distinct focus alongside landscape and history.

There are several ways to experience Lough Erne on the water: Crom offers boat trips, while Island Discovery takes visitors by boat to the many islands of Lough Erne. There are also several cabin cruiser hire operators along the lake. No prior experience or driving licence is required to hire a boat; operators provide a full briefing with experienced instructors. The specific arrangements may vary by operator. For connections to places in County Fermanagh, Translink’s Goldline and Ulsterbus services can help you plan; check current timetables for your journey.

Explore more destinations: Enniskillen, Belleek, Irvinestown, Ederney, Lisnarrick, Aghnablaney, Letterbreen, Newtownbutler, Derrygonnelly, Drumgoon.

For the wider travel overview: Northern Ireland.