Attractions and Places To See around Ely Island - Top 19
Attractions and places to see around Ely Island include a collection of historical sites and natural features. The region features several ancient castles and ruins, offering insights into past eras. Visitors can explore forests and discover ancient trees, alongside historical churches with early Christian stones. This area provides opportunities to engage with both historical landmarks and natural landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Ely Island
- The most popular attractions is Enniskillen Castle, a historical site that has been a significant landmark since the 16th century. It served as an army barracks before becoming a heritage center, where visitors can learn about the region's history.
- Another must-see spot is Old Castle Archdale, a forest and historical site. This 17th-century castle, built on a forest clifftop, was destroyed by fire during the Williamite Wars and now stands as ruins within a coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest.
- Visitors also love Ancient Chestnut Tree, a natural monument. This horse chestnut is one of the oldest trees on the estate, forming a natural arch over the path along the Beech Trail.
- Ely Island is known for its historical sites, castles, and natural monuments. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to significant trees and religious buildings.
- The attractions around Ely Island are appreciated by the komoot community, with 8 upvotes and 10 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
In the 1950s, the castle was decommissioned as an army barracks and opened as a heritage centre. Today, you can visit the museum to learn about the region's history. The castle is open from 9.30am to 5pm (Monday to Friday) and from 11am - 5pm on weekends.
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Old Castle Archdale
Highlight • Forest
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Tully Castle Ruins
Highlight • Castle
A visitor’s centre, located in a restored farmhouse, houses an exhibition telling local stories relating to the castle.
(discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/tully-castle-p675521)
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Ancient Chestnut Tree
Highlight • Forest
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Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones
Highlight • Monument
Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem.
Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground.
Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged.
megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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Along the Beech Trail, you'll discover some of the oldest trees on the estate, including Oak and the sprawling limbs of this Horse Chestnut, forming a natural arch over the path.
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In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
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The magnificent Enniskillen Castle is situated in the heart of Enniskillen on the banks of the River Erne. The castle was founded in the 15th century by Hugh 'The Hospitable' Maguire and belonged to the Maguire family for centuries. Between 2007 and 2013 a massive refurbishment took place so that the castle could be opened to the public. Today you can explore the castle grounds and learn about this landmarks rich history.
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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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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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This fortified house is on Tully Point and built for Sir John Hume who occupied the house until 1641 when it was attacked by John Maguire and burned on Christmas Eve with all its inhabitants massacred. After that it was not lived in again. There is a visitors centre in a restored farmhouse that has an interesting exhibition telling a number of stories relating to the castle. To visit the castle be sure to step off the bike as it is on foot only!
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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 Ely Island?
Ely Island is rich in history, offering several significant sites. You can visit Enniskillen Castle, a 16th-century landmark that now serves as a heritage center. Explore the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a 17th-century castle set on a forest clifftop. Additionally, the Tully Castle Ruins, a fortified house with a visitor's center, offers insights into its dramatic past.
Are there any ancient or religious sites to visit?
Yes, you can discover the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones. This site features a graveyard with several interesting stones, including the noted Bishops stone and a large slab with cup-shaped hollows, suggesting it was a reused bullaun stone and early Christian cross slab.
What unique natural features can I see around Ely Island?
Among the natural attractions, the Ancient Chestnut Tree stands out. This horse chestnut is one of the oldest trees on the estate, forming a natural arch over the path along the Beech Trail, offering a picturesque sight.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Ely Island offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on various trails, with options for easy walks like those found in the Easy hikes around Ely Island guide. Cycling enthusiasts can explore routes from the Cycling around Ely Island guide, including parts of the Kingfisher Cycle Trail. For mountain biking, check out the MTB Trails around Ely Island.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Ely Island?
Absolutely. Several attractions are suitable for families, including Enniskillen Castle, which offers engaging historical exhibits. The Tully Castle Ruins also provide a family-friendly historical experience with a visitor's center. Additionally, the Ancient Chestnut Tree offers a pleasant natural spot for a family stroll.
What is the history behind Old Castle Archdale?
Old Castle Archdale was built in 1615 by an Englishman named John Archdale. It was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed by fire and abandoned during the Williamite Wars in 1689. Today, its crumbling walls on a forest clifftop offer a glimpse into its turbulent past.
Are there easy walking trails near the attractions?
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For instance, you can find routes like 'Old Archdale Castle via Tom's Island' or 'Tully Castle Ruins loop from Heron Island' which are categorized as easy. More options are available in the Easy hikes around Ely Island guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ely Island?
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich history and scenic beauty. For example, at Enniskillen Castle, people enjoy learning about its centuries of history, from Irish rebellions to its role as an army barracks. At Old Castle Archdale, the atmosphere of wandering crumbling walls perched atop a cliff, surrounded by thick forest, is often highlighted.
Can I combine a visit to a historical site with a nature walk?
Absolutely. Old Castle Archdale is situated within a 520-hectare coniferous and mixed broadleaved forest, allowing you to explore the castle ruins and then enjoy a walk through the surrounding woodland. Similarly, the Ancient Chestnut Tree is found along the Beech Trail, perfect for a nature stroll.
Are there any viewpoints with scenic views?
Yes, Old Castle Archdale is listed as a viewpoint. Perched on a forest clifftop, it likely offers scenic vistas of the surrounding area and forest.
How long should I plan for a visit to these attractions?
The duration depends on the attraction. For Enniskillen Castle, with its museum and grounds, you might spend 2-3 hours. Exploring the ruins of Old Castle Archdale and its surrounding forest could take 1-2 hours. Shorter stops like the Ancient Chestnut Tree or Killadeas Priory Church might be 30 minutes to an hour each, especially if combined with a walk.
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