Attractions and Places To See around Glencoonra - Top 17
Best attractions and places to see around Glencoonra include historical sites, castles, and natural features. This region offers a variety of landmarks and natural features, providing opportunities for exploration. Visitors can discover several historical sites and natural monuments, making it a destination for those interested in cultural heritage and outdoor activities. Glencoonra hiking trails and walking routes near Glencoonra often lead to these points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Glencoonra
- The most popular attractions is Enniskillen…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Enniskillen Castle
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Old Castle Archdale
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Ancient Chestnut Tree
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Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones
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Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings
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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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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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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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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 Glencoonra?
Glencoonra is rich in historical sites. You can visit Enniskillen Castle, a 16th-century fortress on the River Erne, which now serves as a heritage center. Another significant site is Old Castle Archdale, a castle ruin from 1615 located on a forest clifftop, with a history of rebellions and destruction by fire. Don't miss the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, featuring ancient carved stones and a holed stone.
Are there natural monuments or unique natural features to see in the area?
Yes, Glencoonra offers interesting natural features. A notable one is the Ancient Chestnut Tree, found along the Beech Trail. This natural monument boasts sprawling limbs that form a natural arch, showcasing some of the oldest trees on the estate.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Glencoonra's attractions?
The area around Glencoonra provides various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling with routes like the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' or the 'Derrygonnelly & Boho loop from Enniskillen'. For running enthusiasts, there are trails such as the 'Old Castle Archdale – Rossmore Point Beacon loop'. Road cycling options include the 'Bishop's Stone loop from Ballinamallard'. You can find more details on these routes in the dedicated guides for Cycling around Glencoonra, Running Trails around Glencoonra, and Road Cycling Routes around Glencoonra.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Glencoonra?
Several attractions around Glencoonra are suitable for families. Enniskillen Castle offers an engaging historical experience for all ages. The Ancient Chestnut Tree provides a unique natural sight along a walking path, which can be enjoyable for children. Additionally, the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings, with their WWII history, can be an interesting stop for families.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Glencoonra?
Visitors appreciate the rich history and natural beauty of Glencoonra. For instance, the historical significance and detailed exhibits at Enniskillen Castle are highly regarded. The atmospheric ruins of Old Castle Archdale, perched on a clifftop, allow visitors to imagine life centuries ago. The unique form of the Ancient Chestnut Tree also receives positive feedback for its natural charm.
Are there any castles to visit in the Glencoonra area?
Yes, Glencoonra is home to significant castles. You can explore Enniskillen Castle, a well-preserved 16th-century castle that now houses a museum. Another option is the ruins of Old Castle Archdale, built in 1615, which offers a glimpse into the region's turbulent past from its forest clifftop location.
Are there walking routes that lead to these attractions?
Yes, many of Glencoonra's attractions are accessible via walking routes. For example, the Ancient Chestnut Tree is located along the Beech Trail. The general introduction to Glencoonra mentions that hiking trails and walking routes often lead to the region's points of interest, allowing for scenic exploration.
What is the history behind the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones?
The Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones site features several ancient stones in its graveyard. The most notable is the 'Bishops stone,' which has been altered and reused multiple times. Another large slab bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, suggesting it was a bullaun stone reused as an early Christian cross slab with a Greek cross design. There is also a holed stone and a broken stone pillar, all contributing to the rich historical tapestry of the site.
Can I learn about World War II history in Glencoonra?
Yes, you can explore some WWII history at the Castle Archdale Courtyard Buildings. During WWII, Castle Archdale served as a major base for flying boats, housing up to 2,500 people. These courtyard buildings were central to the RAF fighters stationed there, and sometimes exhibitions are held to display key historical notes from that period.
What is the significance of Old Castle Archdale?
Old Castle Archdale is significant for its 17th-century origins and its role in Irish history. Built in 1615, it was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 and later destroyed by fire in 1689 during the Williamite Wars. Perched on a forest clifftop, its ruins offer a tangible link to a turbulent past and the lives of those who inhabited it.
Are there any lesser-known historical sites or 'hidden gems' in Glencoonra?
While not widely publicized, the Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones could be considered a hidden gem for those interested in ancient Irish history and archaeology. Its unique collection of carved stones, including the 'Bishops stone' and a bullaun stone, offers a fascinating glimpse into early Christian heritage that might be overlooked by casual visitors.
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