Attractions and Places To See around Drumquillia - Top 4
Best attractions and places to see around Drumquillia include historical sites, ancient ruins, and nature reserves. This region offers opportunities for exploring significant cultural landmarks and natural landscapes. Visitors can discover a variety of sites, from medieval abbeys to expansive estates with diverse wildlife. The area provides a blend of historical exploration and outdoor activity.
Best attractions and places to see around Drumquillia
- The most popular attractions is Old Crom Castle Ruins, a viewpoint and historical site set on…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
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Crom Estate Castle Ruins
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Clones Round Tower
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Old Crom Castle Ruins
Highlight • Viewpoint
Wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels and many rare …
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Crom Castle Boathouse
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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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The Crom Castle estate boathouse sits on the shore of Lough Erne below the main castle. The views out on onto the water from the boathouse are splendid, the perfect spot to pull up a picnic blanket and enjoy some relaxation.
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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 historical sites can I explore around Drumquillia?
The Drumquillia area is rich in history. You can visit the ruins of Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a monastic site dating back to the 12th century, and the nearby Clones Round Tower. The Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins offer glimpses into the region's past within a beautiful natural setting. Further afield, you can explore the 15th-century Enniskillen Castle, the 13th-century Teampull Mór, and the St Mary's Augustinian Priory.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the Drumquillia region?
Yes, several attractions around Drumquillia are suitable for families. The Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are set within expansive natural estates, offering space for children to explore. The Crom Castle Boathouse provides scenic views over Lough Erne, perfect for a family picnic. These sites often combine historical interest with opportunities for outdoor activity.
What natural features or viewpoints can I find near Drumquillia?
The region boasts beautiful natural landscapes, particularly around Upper Lough Erne. The Old Crom Castle Ruins are situated on the shores of Upper Lough Erne, offering stunning views. The Crom Estate Castle Ruins are part of a large nature reserve with woodlands, a lake, and islands. For picturesque lake views, visit the Crom Castle Boathouse, an ideal spot to relax by the water.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Drumquillia is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy easy hikes on trails like the Crom Estate Trail or the Whiskered Bat Nature Trail. For longer walks, consider the Crom Castle Boathouse – Crom Castle loop. There are also running trails available, such as the Old Crom Castle (Ruins) loop. You can find more details on these activities and routes on the Hiking around Drumquillia and Easy hikes around Drumquillia guide pages.
Are there specific walking or hiking trails around the Crom Estate?
Yes, the Crom Estate offers several walking opportunities. You can explore the Crom Estate Trail, an easy route that allows you to experience the natural beauty of the area. Other popular options include the Crom Castle Boathouse – Crom Castle loop and the Old Crom Castle Ruins – Crom Estate Castle Ruins loop. These trails provide a chance to see the estate's ancient woodlands, islands, and wildlife. More information can be found in the Easy hikes around Drumquillia guide.
What is the best time of year to visit Drumquillia's outdoor attractions?
While the guide doesn't specify a single 'best' time, visiting during spring or autumn often provides pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor attractions and natural reserves like the Crom Estate. These seasons also offer beautiful scenery with blooming flora or vibrant fall foliage. Summer is also popular for outdoor activities, though it can be busier.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Drumquillia?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical exploration and natural beauty. The Clones 'Wee' Abbey is valued for its ancient ruins and interesting graveyard. The Crom Estate, encompassing Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins, is loved for its tranquil islands, ancient woodlands, and diverse wildlife, making it an important nature conservation area.
Are there any cafes or facilities available at the main attractions?
At the Crom Estate, which includes the Crom Estate Castle Ruins and Old Crom Castle Ruins, there is a coffee shop available for visitors. For other attractions like Clones 'Wee' Abbey, it's advisable to check local amenities in nearby towns for refreshments.
Can I bring my dog to the walking trails and attractions?
While specific dog-friendly policies for all attractions are not detailed, many outdoor areas and walking trails, especially within natural estates like Crom, are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. It's always recommended to check the specific rules of each site before visiting to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.
How long should I allocate to visit the main attractions?
The time needed varies by attraction. For historical sites like Clones 'Wee' Abbey or Clones Round Tower, a visit might take 1-2 hours. Exploring the extensive Crom Estate, including its castle ruins, boathouse, and walking trails, could easily fill half a day or more, especially if you plan to enjoy a picnic or a longer walk.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots worth visiting?
Beyond the main highlights, the region offers several intriguing historical sites. Killadeas Priory Church and its early Christian stones, including the unique 'Bishops stone,' provide a glimpse into ancient craftsmanship. These sites offer a quieter, more reflective experience away from the more frequented locations.
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