Cootehill lies between the Dromore and Annalee rivers; there are 26 lakes within a 13-kilometre radius of the surrounding area. Dromore River Tours offers guided canoe or boat trips, as well as the option to rent a boat for a day. The canoe trip takes about three hours. It first follows the Dromore River through the drumlin landscape along the Cavan–Monaghan border, then passes through Dromore Lough between the wooded estates of Bellamont and Dartrey, and ends at Halton’s Park in Cootehill. Agree on the duration and route with the provider in advance. For your itinerary, distinguish the approximately three-hour tour from the boat rental for a full day.

Activities on the water and on land

The Cootehill Loop passes through historic Bellamont Forest. Haltons Amenity Area is on the outskirts of Cootehill. It has changing facilities and serves as a starting point for several walking trails. This gives you a choice of different ways to spend time outdoors: a guided tour on the water, a forest trail or walks on the edge of town. Check before your visit whether the changing facilities are available for use.

Town history and memorial sites

Cootehill is a historic town and was an important centre of the linen industry in the 18th century. A historic town trail offers another perspective on the town’s history. Erica’s Fairy Forest, dedicated to the memory of Erica Ní Draighneain (2010–2016), is located in Fairgreen. The history of a local industry and a memorial site therefore offer two distinct cultural points of interest.

Events and when to visit

The Cootehill Arts Festival brings well-known artists and performers to Cootehill every summer. The Cootehill Championship Fishing Festival is an annual five-day event in September that attracts more than 100 anglers to Cootehill. The town is also considered a popular fishing destination; local fishing conditions can vary. If you are travelling specifically to fish, find out about the conditions for your travel dates.

Cootehill Parkrun is a free weekly 5 km community event. It takes place every Saturday at 9:30 a.m. in Halton’s Amenity Park on Monaghan Road in Cootehill. You can walk, run, volunteer or spectate. Check the event details before travelling.

The timing differs considerably when planning your trip: the Arts Festival takes place in summer, the Fishing Festival in September, while Parkrun is scheduled weekly on Saturday mornings. If you want to plan your trip around one of these events, check the date or current schedule in advance.

Discover more destinations: Corlough, Lavagh, Loch Gowna, Blacklion, Arvagh, Belturbet, Virginia, Ballyconnell

For the wider travel overview: County Cavan.