The best walks and hikes around Blaney East
4.8
(14)
154
hikers
11
hikes
Hiking around Blaney East is characterized by gentle, low-lying terrain along the shores of Lough Erne. The area's routes often feature lakeside paths, woodland sections, and access to historical sites such as castle ruins. With minimal elevation gain, the trails are suitable for a wide range of abilities, focusing on accessible outdoor activities in a landscape shaped by water and history.
Best hiking trails around Blaney East
- The most popular hiking route is Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
4.61km
01:12
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
5
hikers
4.28km
01:09
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
28
hikers
3.69km
00:59
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
15
hikers
2.01km
00:32
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
13
hikers
12.0km
03:10
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A hive of activity, the marina at Castle Archdale is full of things to do. Why not park your bike and pedal on water on one of the hydrobikes? Kayaks, paddleboards and boats are also available to hire. Or if you're looking for a break, this is a great place to stop and take it all in.
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During WW2 Castle Archdale was a major base for flying boats and housed up to 2,500 people. Buildings such as these would have been a central location for the RAF fighters who lived here. Sometimes exhibitions are held in these courtyards to display some of the key historical notes of the use of this area during the war.
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A white beacon marks the location of Rossmore Point. There is a bench to sit on here where you can enjoy serene views over Lough Erne.
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Beautiful views over Lough Erne toward Tom's Island. Tom's Island is actually no longer an island, but once was before the lough was lowered.
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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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Take in the fabulous views of Lower Lough Erne from this point. Directly ahead you will see Crevinisaughy and Inishmakill island. These are one of the many islands found in this large lake system that is in fact widened sections of the River Erne as it flows towards the Alantic.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly hikes in Blaney East?
Yes, the area is ideal for beginners. Most trails are rated as easy, featuring gentle terrain with minimal elevation gain. A great option is the Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island walk, which is a short and flat route through scenic woodland and along the lakeshore.
What are the trail conditions like around Blaney East?
The trails around Blaney East generally consist of well-maintained lakeside paths and quiet woodland tracks. The terrain is mostly low-lying and gentle. After rain, some sections, particularly in wooded areas, can become muddy, so waterproof footwear is recommended.
Are there any circular or loop trails available?
Yes, many of the routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same place without retracing your steps. The Castle Archdale loop is a popular choice that offers varied scenery over a manageable distance.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
Dogs are generally welcome on the trails around Blaney East, especially in public areas like Castle Archdale Forest Park. However, you should always keep them on a leash, particularly near wildlife and livestock. Be sure to check specific signage at trailheads for any local restrictions.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers?
The hiking in Blaney East is primarily easy to moderate, focusing on gentle lakeside and woodland terrain. While there are no difficult mountain climbs, you can find a longer, more strenuous walk with the Rossmore Point Beacon – Old Castle Archdale Ruins loop from Lisnarrick. At over 12 km, it provides a good challenge based on distance.
What is the best time of year to hike in Blaney East?
You can hike in Blaney East year-round, but the best conditions are typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is milder, daylight hours are longer, and the woodlands and lakeside vegetation are at their most vibrant.
Are there any family-friendly walks?
Absolutely. The region is well-suited for family outings. For a short, engaging walk that's perfect for all ages, consider the Tully Castle Ruins loop from Derrygonnelly. It's a very short trail leading to impressive 17th-century castle ruins, which can be exciting for children to explore.
What kind of wildlife might I see while hiking?
The landscape of woodlands and wetlands around Lough Erne supports a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for waterfowl and wading birds along the shoreline. In the forests, you might spot red squirrels, badgers, and various songbirds. The area is also known for its diverse insect life, including dragonflies and butterflies.
How do I get to the trailheads and is there parking?
Most trailheads, such as those at Castle Archdale Country Park, are accessible by car and have designated parking areas. It's best to use the 'Getting there' feature on a specific komoot Tour page for precise directions to the starting point of your chosen hike.
Are there any historical sites to see on the hikes?
Yes, the area is rich in history. Many trails incorporate historical landmarks. Routes within Castle Archdale Country Park will lead you past the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, and you can also find trails that explore World War II heritage sites within the park.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the beautiful lakeside scenery of Lough Erne, and the well-maintained paths that make for easy and enjoyable walking. The combination of natural beauty and local history is a frequently mentioned highlight.
Are there any good shorter walks available?
Yes, there are several excellent short walks. For a quick and scenic outing, the Rossmore Point Beacon loop from Lisnarrick is a great choice. It's under 4 km and offers lovely views from the beacon without requiring a long time commitment.
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