Attractions and Places To See around Aghavore - Top 8
Best attractions and places to see around Aghavore are found within County Leitrim, Ireland, a region known for its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. While Aghavore is a small locality, it provides access to a diverse range of attractions. The area features ancient historical sites, unique natural formations, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore a variety of landscapes and learn about the region's heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Aghavore
- The most popular attractions is Janus…
Last updated: August 11, 2026
Old Castle Archdale
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Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery
Highlight • Monument
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Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment
Highlight • Historical Site
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St Patrick's Purgatory
Highlight • Religious Site
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White Island Church and Carved Figures
Highlight • Monument
Another delightful waterborne outing is to White Island, home of a famous row of early Christian statues. The ferry leaves from Castle Archdale Country Park, near Irvinestown.
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Popular around Aghavore
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From here over the Lough you can see St Patrick's Purgatory which is an ancient pilgrimage site that is suggested to have not been interrupted for fifteen hundred years, with it continuing in the present day. Its importance in medieval times is clear due to its present on maps all over Europe as early as the 15th century. It was the only Irish site designated on Martin Behaim's world map of 1492.
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White Island Another delightful waterborne outing is to White Island, home of a famous row of early Christian statues. The ferry leaves from Castle Archdale Country Park, near Irvinestown. The ruins of the ancient church are situated near the shore, built on the site of an earlier monastic settlement. Its fine arched Romanesque doorway is still intact. Famous carved figures sit in a line along the interior wall. They were probably constructed between 800 and 1000, and were later used as building stones in the church, before being uncovered in recent centuries. - https://web.archive.org/web/20120224043140/http://www.culturenorthernireland.org/article.aspx?art_id=746 - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/White_Island,_County_Fermanagh
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Old Castle Archdale is situated on Castle Hill within a 520 hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest. The castle was built in the 1600s and was the main castle on this former estate before its successor took it's place in the 1800s, Castle Archdale.
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From here over the Lough you can see St Patrick's Purgatory which is an ancient pilgrimage site that is suggested to have not been interrupted for fifteen hundred years, with it continuing in the present day. Its importance in medieval times is clear due to its present on maps all over Europe as early as the 15th century. It was the only Irish site designated on Martin Behaim's world map of 1492.
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Drumskinny Stone Circle is one of five in the area. It dates back to 2000BC and is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions or astronomical observations. There are 39 stones that make up the circle which are all placed around a small cairn.
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Old Castle Archdale sits on a forest clifftop. It is named 'old' to distinguish it from its successor, the 18th century Castle Archdale. The castle was built by an Englishman from Suffolk who had been granted the estate in 1612 after paying 5 pounds, 6 shillings and 8 pence for the 1000 acres of land. During the Irish Rebellion of 1641 the castle was captured by Rory Maguire as part of the uprising to retake his lands that had been lost in 1607. The heir to the castle was saved by his nurse however the other children were killed. After the castle was returned to the family it was repaired and lived in until 1689. The castle saw its end during the Williamite Wars when the castle was burnt out and abandoned.
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Drumskinny Stone Circle is one of five stone circles located in the area. Although its exact purpose isn't known, it is thought to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions, or astronomical observations. The circle is made up of 39 stones placed around a small round cairn. Entrance to the site is free.
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Perched atop a cliff and surrounded by thick forest, it's easy to imagine how life would have been hundreds of years ago as you wander the crumbling walls of Old Castle Archdale. Built in 1615 by Englishman John Archdale, the castle was captured by the Irish in the Irish Rebellion of 1641. The castle was inhabited until 1689, when it was destroyed by fire and abandoned.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Aghavore?
The region around Aghavore is rich in history. You can visit Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle set within a large forest, or explore the ancient Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment, dating back to 2000 BC. Another significant site is White Island Church and Carved Figures, featuring early Christian statues and Romanesque architecture.
Are there any unique ancient monuments near Aghavore?
Yes, the area is home to the fascinating Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery on Boa Island. These pre-Christian, possibly Iron Age, stone figures are unique for their two-faced carvings and stand among modern graves in an isolated cemetery.
What natural attractions are there to see in County Leitrim?
County Leitrim offers several stunning natural features. Don't miss Glencar Waterfall, a captivating 50-foot waterfall famously referenced by W.B. Yeats. You can also explore the Shannon Blueway, a network of trails along the River Shannon, or visit Lough Allen for water-based activities. For dramatic scenery, Sliabh an Iarainn Mountain and Fowley's Falls are excellent choices.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Aghavore is great for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find various cycling routes, including touring bicycle and road cycling options. For example, there's a 'Boa Island Road loop' for touring bicycles and an 'Enniskillen Castle loop' for road cycling. You can find more details on these routes in the Cycling around Aghavore and Road Cycling Routes around Aghavore guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Aghavore?
Yes, the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is listed as family-friendly. Additionally, the Lough Key Forest & Activity Park, a short drive from Leitrim, offers walking and cycling trails suitable for families.
What is the best time of year to visit Aghavore and its surrounding attractions?
The region's natural beauty, including waterfalls and lakes, is often at its most vibrant after rainfall, particularly in spring and autumn. Summer offers warmer weather for outdoor activities like cycling and water sports on Lough Allen. Historical sites like Parke's Castle and Creevelea Abbey are accessible year-round, though opening hours may vary seasonally.
Where can I learn about the local history and heritage?
County Leitrim offers several sites dedicated to local history. The Arigna Mining Experience provides insights into the region's coal mining past with guided underground walks. The Glenview Folk Museum houses a vast collection showcasing rural Irish heritage, and the Fenagh Visitor Centre details the history of its village and abbeys. For specific information on County Leitrim's heritage, you can visit Leitrim Tourism's heritage section.
Are there any unique cultural experiences in the area?
Absolutely. You can take a tour at The Shed Distillery in Drumshanbo, home of Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin, to learn about the distillation process. For a step back in time, the Cavan and Leitrim Railway in Dromod offers vintage train rides and exhibits on Ireland's railway history.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Aghavore?
Visitors appreciate the blend of ancient history and natural beauty. The unique stone carvings of the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery and the historical depth of Old Castle Archdale are highly rated. The komoot community has shared over 10 photos and given more than 10 upvotes for the attractions in the area, highlighting their appeal.
Is there parking available at major attractions like the Janus Stones or Old Castle Archdale?
While specific parking details for every site are not always provided, major attractions in rural areas like these typically have designated parking areas or roadside parking nearby. For instance, the Janus Stones are located in Caldragh Cemetery, which usually has visitor parking. Old Castle Archdale is within a large forest park, which would have parking facilities for visitors.
Can I find any religious or pilgrimage sites in the vicinity?
Yes, you can see St Patrick's Purgatory across the lough, an ancient pilgrimage site that has been active for over fifteen hundred years. Its historical importance is evident from its presence on 15th-century European maps. Additionally, Creevelea Abbey near Dromahair is a medieval Franciscan friary with well-preserved architectural features.
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