The Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail leads through one of Northern Ireland’s largest areas of blanket bog. It passes abandoned Irish cottages, stone walls and potato-growing ridges. These ridges are known as “lazy beds”; the features mentioned are considered remnants of Ireland’s earlier cultural heritage. After a steep climb through rugged rock formations, the trail reaches a viewing platform. Check the latest access notices and conditions before setting out on a hike.
Blanket Bog, Parkland and Country Houses
The Cuilcagh Lakelands UNESCO Global Geopark extends across County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland and County Cavan in the Republic of Ireland. The Marble Arch Caves lie at the heart of the geopark. The landscape around the caves includes rivers, mountains, ancient forests, waterfalls and gorges. On guided cave tours, constructed paths and subtle lighting lead visitors through the caves and reveal their formations. Tour arrangements may change.
Castle Coole is an 18th-century country house and one of Ireland’s most important neoclassical houses. Two trails run alongside the lake, offering opportunities to observe seasonal wildlife and see the country house. Routes may be adjusted for conservation or maintenance reasons.
Florence Court is an 18th-century residence set amid gardens, parkland and woodland. The estate’s original Irish yew is 250 years old and is considered the mother plant of Irish yews worldwide. A trail through the forest park takes hikers to the highest point, where they can enjoy views across Fermanagh and beyond. This brings the different landscapes surrounding the houses into focus too: the lake at Castle Coole and the forest park at Florence Court.
Islands and Experiences on the Water
The 2,000-acre Crom estate comprises peaceful islands and ancient woodland that provides a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. Boat trips on Lough Erne are available at Crom; operators and availability may change, so it is worth checking the latest options. The 17th-century ruins there form a secluded monument with impressive views across the lake.
Devenish Island is open to visitors and can only be reached by water. The Devenish Pilgrim Pass includes a guided boat trip to the island. There are also several operators offering cabin cruisers along Lough Erne. No prior experience or driving licence is required to hire one; operators provide a full briefing with experienced instructors. Details may vary by operator.
Discover History and Craftsmanship
Enniskillen Castle was built almost 600 years ago by the ruling Gaelic Maguire clan on the River Erne. The historic site is home to the Fermanagh County Museum and The Inniskillings Museum. Seven galleries tell the story of the region from prehistoric times to the modern era. The Fermanagh Visitor Information Centre is also located in the castle, in Enniskillen, County Fermanagh.
The Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre has welcomed visitors since 1857. A 30-minute tour shows the 16 steps involved in making pottery. Tour content and arrangements may change; check the latest tour information before your visit.
More Ways to Explore
The Scarplands Cycle Trail starts in Belcoo and ends at Lough Navar Forest. It can be ridden as a 60-kilometre linear route. Forestry work and trail conditions may affect access, so checking the latest route notices can help with planning. Translink’s Goldline and Ulsterbus services are another option for getting to places in County Fermanagh; check the timetables before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Enniskillen, Belleek, Irvinestown, Ederney, Lisnarrick, Aghnablaney, Letterbreen, Newtownbutler, Derrygonnelly, Drumgoon
For the broader travel overview: Northern Ireland.
