Attractions and Places To See around Bleanish Island - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Bleanish Island feature a landscape rich in natural beauty and historical significance. The region, situated near Upper Lough Erne, is recognized for its nature conservation areas and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore ancient woodlands, tranquil islands, and historical ruins, offering a blend of natural landscapes and cultural heritage. This area provides opportunities to discover various sites, from historical castles to scenic loughs.
Best attractions and places to see around Bleanish Island
- The most…
Last updated: August 23, 2026
Old Crom Castle Ruins
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Wild deer, pine marten, red squirrels and many rare …
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Crom Estate
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Ballyconnel Lock 2
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Belturbet
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Ballyconnell–Woodford Canal
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The fortress (1611) withstood two heavy sieges in 1689 (during the Jacobite Wars) but was completely destroyed by a devastating fire in 1764. The circular path passes by the ruins.
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A beautiful riverside town, Belturbet is a delight to explore. Popular with boaters and golfers, the surrounding area also has some pretty walking trails too. There are several bars and restaurants for post hike refreshment.
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Heading out towards Annagh loop, along the Ballyconnell canal you can enjoy the quite river landscape on mixed towpath and singletrack terrain.
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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 Ballyconnell Lock 2 is one of 16 locks on the Shannon – Erne Waterway, a canal that links the River Shannon in the Republic of Ireland with the River Erne in Northern Ireland. The lock is a wonderful place to watch colourful narrow boats navigate the water on their journey from Leitrim Village to Upper Lough Erne.
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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
Are there family-friendly attractions around Bleanish Island?
Yes, many attractions are suitable for families. Both Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins are designated as family-friendly, offering space to explore nature and history. Annagh Lough also features a nature trail perfect for families.
What historical sites can I visit around Bleanish Island?
The region is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Estate Castle Ruins, both set within significant nature conservation areas. The Crom Castle Boathouse also offers a glimpse into the estate's past with splendid views over Lough Erne.
What natural features can I explore around Bleanish Island?
Bleanish Island is known for its natural beauty. You can visit Annagh Lough, a popular fishing spot with reedbeds and a looping nature trail through Annagh Woods. The Crom Estate, home to the castle ruins, is a large nature reserve featuring ancient woodlands and a lake, providing habitat for diverse wildlife like pine martens, bats, and red squirrels.
Are there hiking trails near the attractions around Bleanish Island?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. The Crom Estate offers trails like the Crom Estate Trail, and you can find easy loops connecting Old Crom Castle Ruins and Crom Castle Boathouse. For more details on routes, visit our guide on Hiking around Bleanish Island.
Where can I find easy walks around Bleanish Island?
For easy walks, consider the looping nature trail around Annagh Lough through Annagh Woods. The Crom Estate also features several easy trails, including the Crom Estate Trail. You can explore more options in our guide to Easy hikes around Bleanish Island.
Where are the best scenic viewpoints around Bleanish Island?
For stunning views, head to Old Crom Castle Ruins, which offers picturesque vistas over Upper Lough Erne. The Crom Castle Boathouse also provides splendid views out onto Lough Erne, perfect for relaxation. Additionally, the trail around Annagh Lough offers scenic views across its reedbeds.
What other outdoor activities are available near Bleanish Island attractions?
Beyond hiking, you can enjoy fishing at Annagh Lough, which is popular for trout. At Crom Estate, you can hire a boat to explore Lough Erne. For cycling enthusiasts, there are various Road Cycling Routes around Bleanish Island, ranging from easy to difficult.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the attractions?
Yes, within the Crom Estate, which encompasses several key attractions, there is a coffee shop available. This provides a convenient spot for refreshments during your visit to the castle ruins and boathouse.
Are there any less-known or unique attractions to discover?
Consider visiting Ballyconnel Lock 2, one of 16 locks on the Shannon–Erne Waterway. It's a fascinating spot to watch narrow boats navigate the canal. Annagh Lough, while popular for fishing, also offers a tranquil looping nature trail that might be less crowded than the main castle sites.
When is the best time to visit Bleanish Island attractions?
The best time to visit Bleanish Island attractions, especially for enjoying the natural landscapes and outdoor activities, is typically during the spring and summer months (April to September). The weather is generally milder, making it ideal for exploring the woodlands, lakes, and historical sites. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Bleanish Island?
The region, particularly the Crom Estate, is a significant nature conservation area. You might spot wild deer, red squirrels, and pine martens. The area is also home to all eight species of native bats and a diverse array of rare lichens and butterflies, especially around the ancient woodlands and tranquil islands.
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