Attractions and Places To See around Gortbrannan - Top 8
Best attractions and places to see around Gortbrannan include a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and significant conservation areas. The region features ancient castle ruins, monastic sites, and expansive loughs, offering diverse points of interest. These attractions are often set within nature reserves, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and explore woodlands. Gortbrannan's landscape is characterized by its historical depth and natural beauty, making it a destination for those interested in both cultural heritage and outdoor exploration.
Best attractions…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
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Crom Estate Castle Ruins
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Clones Round Tower
Highlight • Historical Site
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Old Crom Castle Ruins
Highlight • Viewpoint
Wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels and many rare …
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Carnmore Lough
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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Managed by the National Trust, the Crom Estate is a large nature reserve of woodlands, lake, castle ruins and islands. It is an important habitat for pine martens, bats, deer, red squirrels and butterflies. There is a coffee shop at the estate and if you fancy something different you can hire a boat to explore the lough. For more details check out the website https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/crom
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This is an extraordinarily wild and scenic part of Northern Ireland. The lough appears on your right as you travel down Carnmore Road against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest.
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The round tower in Clones was originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey. Although it would once have stood at 75 feet (23 m), the top part is now missing. Nonetheless, it is still a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. There would once have been four storeys, including a bell storey. St Tierney's graveyard, which surrounds the tower, is also an interesting place to explore with many 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.
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Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
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Set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Crom is one of Ireland's most important nature conservation areas. Wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels and many rare species including butterflies can all be found on the estate. Also inhabiting the surrounding area are all eight species of native bats and an outstanding array of rare lichens. The 2,000 acre demesne contains ancient woodland, tranquil islands, estate cottages and Old Crom Castle, all linked by the breathtakingly beautiful landscape designed by W.S.Gilpin in the 19th century. (https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/crom-estate-p675551)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of historical sites can I visit around Gortbrannan?
Gortbrannan offers a rich history with several notable sites. You can explore the ruins of Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a 12th-century monastery with an interesting graveyard, and the nearby Clones Round Tower, a prominent 10th-century structure. Additionally, the Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins provide glimpses into the region's past, set within beautiful natural landscapes.
Where can I experience nature and wildlife around Gortbrannan?
The Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are situated within one of Ireland's most important nature conservation areas on the shores of Upper Lough Erne. Here, you can spot wild deer, pine martens, red squirrels, and various rare species of butterflies and bats. The estate features ancient woodlands, tranquil islands, and a breathtaking landscape designed in the 19th century.
Are there natural attractions or scenic viewpoints in Gortbrannan?
Yes, Gortbrannan is home to several scenic natural spots. Carnmore Lough offers an extraordinarily wild and scenic landscape, set against a backdrop of coniferous forest. The Old Crom Castle Ruins also serve as a viewpoint overlooking Upper Lough Erne, providing stunning natural vistas.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Gortbrannan?
Many attractions in Gortbrannan are suitable for families. The Clones 'Wee' Abbey and Clones Round Tower offer an educational historical experience. The Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are excellent for families, providing opportunities for nature walks, wildlife spotting, and exploring castle ruins within a large nature reserve.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Gortbrannan is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking on various trails, including easy walks within the Crom Estate. Road cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'Newbliss and Rockcorry Loop' or the 'Clones Round Tower – Clones 'Wee' Abbey loop'. For more details on routes, explore the hiking guide and road cycling guide for Gortbrannan.
Are there easy walking trails around Gortbrannan?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails available. The Crom Estate offers accessible paths like the 'Crom Estate Trail' and various loops around the castle ruins and boathouse. These trails are generally considered easy and are perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst nature. You can find more options in the easy hikes guide for Gortbrannan.
Can I find circular walks near Gortbrannan?
Yes, several circular walks are available, particularly within the Crom Estate. Examples include the 'Crom Castle Boathouse – Crom Castle loop' and the 'Old Crom Castle Ruins – Crom Estate Castle Ruins loop'. These routes allow you to explore the estate's natural beauty and historical features in a convenient loop format. Check the hiking guide for detailed circular routes.
Are there facilities like cafes near the attractions?
Yes, if you're visiting the Crom Estate, there is a coffee shop on-site where you can relax and grab refreshments. For other attractions, it's advisable to check local amenities in nearby towns like Clones.
What is special about the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/3014360" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Clones 'Wee' Abbey</a>?
The Clones 'Wee' Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century, though its origins trace to the 6th century. It was destroyed by fire multiple times and suffered during the suppression of monasteries. Today, you can explore its crumbling walls and an interesting graveyard, offering a free and accessible glimpse into centuries of history.
What makes <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/5692001" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Carnmore Lough</a> a unique spot?
Carnmore Lough stands out as an extraordinarily wild and scenic part of Northern Ireland. It offers a tranquil natural landscape, with the lough appearing against a vibrant backdrop of coniferous forest, making it a perfect spot for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Gortbrannan?
Visitors to Gortbrannan particularly appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. The region's ancient castle ruins, monastic sites, and expansive loughs, often set within nature reserves, provide diverse exploration opportunities. The chance to observe local wildlife and explore woodlands, combined with the rich cultural heritage, makes for a unique and engaging experience.
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