Best attractions and places to see around Boolawater include a collection of historical sites, ancient monuments, and scenic viewpoints. The region features significant archaeological finds, such as pre-Christian stone figures and ancient stone circles, alongside important religious pilgrimage sites. Its landscape is characterized by islands and loughs, offering diverse outdoor experiences.
Last updated: October 4, 2026
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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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Boa Island is the largest island on Lough Erne. The road cuts through its centre with views of Lusty Beg, Lusty More and Cruninish Islands.
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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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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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The two pre-Christian, probably Iron Age stone figures, some 70cm high, stand amongst modern graves in the small, isolated Caldragh graveyard. Both were originally Janus-faced (face on front and back). The simpler figure is more heavily damaged. It is likely to be a Celtic cernunnos-like god of vegetation and fertility.
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The unique stone carvings are in the Caldragh Cemetery on Boa Island.
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Boolawater is known for a diverse range of attractions, including significant historical sites, ancient monuments, and scenic viewpoints. You'll discover archaeological finds like pre-Christian stone figures and ancient stone circles, alongside important religious pilgrimage sites. The landscape is characterized by islands and loughs, offering unique natural beauty.
Yes, Boolawater is rich in ancient history. You can visit the Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, featuring two pre-Christian, Iron Age stone figures. Another significant site is the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment, which dates back to 2000 BC. Additionally, White Island Church and Carved Figures offers a glimpse into early Christian monastic settlements.
For families, the Drumskinny Stone Circle, Cairn and Alignment is a great option, offering an engaging historical experience. The Boa Island Road also provides scenic views that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Absolutely. The Boa Island Road offers stunning views of Lusty Beg, Lusty More, and Cruninish Islands on Lough Erne. The region's landscape of islands and loughs provides many opportunities to appreciate natural beauty.
Boolawater offers various cycling opportunities. You can explore routes like 'The Kingfisher Cycle Trail from Enniskillen' or the 'Boa Island Road loop from Kesh'. For more details on cycling routes, visit the Cycling around Boolawater guide.
Yes, road cycling is popular in the area. Routes such as 'Boa island to Lough Derg and back' and 'Enniskillen Castle – Enniskillen Castle loop from Kesh' are available. You can find more information and routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Boolawater guide.
St Patrick's Purgatory is an ancient pilgrimage site visible across the Lough. It has been a continuous pilgrimage site for over fifteen hundred years and was even featured on 15th-century European maps. While you can view it from a distance, direct access for pilgrimage typically involves specific arrangements.
Visitors appreciate the unique historical significance of sites like the Janus Stones and the ancient Drumskinny Stone Circle. The scenic beauty of the islands and loughs, particularly from viewpoints like Boa Island Road, is also highly valued.
Boa Island is the largest island on Lough Erne. The Boa Island Road cuts through its center, offering panoramic views of Lusty Beg, Lusty More, and Cruninish Islands. It is also home to the ancient Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery.
The Janus Stones of Caldragh Cemetery, with their unique pre-Christian carvings, are a truly special and somewhat secluded find. Similarly, the ancient Drumskinny Stone Circle, dating back to 2000 BC, offers a profound historical experience away from more conventional tourist paths.
The Drumskinny Stone Circle is a historical site from 2000 BC, composed of 39 stones surrounding a small cairn. It is believed to have been used for religious ceremonies, calendar functions, or astronomical observations, making it a fascinating glimpse into ancient practices.


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