Attractions and Places To See around Loughgare - Top 6
Best attractions and places to see around Loughgare include a mix of historical sites, natural loughs, and scenic viewpoints. This region features ancient monastic ruins and significant archaeological landmarks. Loughgare is characterized by its natural loughs and forests, offering diverse exploration opportunities. Visitors can discover a range of attractions, from historical monuments to tranquil natural settings.
Best attractions and places to see around Loughgare
- The most popular attractions is Carnmore Lough, a viewpoint that offers a wild and scenic…
Last updated: July 15, 2026
Clones 'Wee' Abbey
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Clones Round Tower
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Carnmore Lough
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
Lough Corry
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Loughgare
Tips from the Community
Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
1
0
This is an extraordinarily wild and scenic part of Northern Ireland. The lough appears on your right as you travel down Carnmore Road against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest.
2
0
This mountain lake in Doon Forest is reputed for good brown trout fishing. Anglers can wade on one side of the shore. This lough provides excellent fishing from a boat also.
2
0
The round tower in Clones was originally built around the 10th century as part of the abbey. Although it would once have stood at 75 feet (23 m), the top part is now missing. Nonetheless, it is still a prominent feature on Clones' skyline. There would once have been four storeys, including a bell storey. St Tierney's graveyard, which surrounds the tower, is also an interesting place to explore with many 17th and 18th-century gravestones and the tomb shrine of St Tighernach.
1
0
Known locally as the "Wee Abbey", Clones Abbey is a ruined monastery dating back to the 12th century. The original abbey was founded by St. Tigernach as early as the 6th century. However, the abbey was destroyed by fire not once, but four times during its history. In the 16th century, the abbey suffered once again during the suppression of monasteries and Protestant reformation under Henry VIII. Less than a hundred years later, it lay in ruin, although some solitary monks still lived here until the 18th century. Today, you can visit the crumbling walls and take a look at the interesting graveyard. The abbey is free to visit and you can access it any time.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Loughgare?
The Loughgare region offers significant historical attractions. You can visit Clones 'Wee' Abbey, a ruined monastery with origins dating back to the 6th century, featuring an interesting graveyard. Nearby, you'll find Clones Round Tower, a prominent 10th-century structure that was once part of the abbey.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural features to see in the Loughgare area?
Yes, the area boasts beautiful natural scenery. Carnmore Lough is a particularly wild and scenic viewpoint, offering stunning views of the lough against a backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest. You can also visit Lough Corry, a mountain lake in Doon Forest known for brown trout fishing.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the attractions around Loughgare?
The Loughgare area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find various road cycling routes, including loops from Clones and Lisnaskea. There are also general cycling routes, such as sections of the Kingfisher Cycle Trail. For those who enjoy running, several running trails are available, including loops around Doon Forest and Dummys Lough.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Loughgare?
Yes, Clones 'Wee' Abbey is considered a family-friendly historical site where visitors can explore the ruined monastery and its graveyard. The natural loughs and forests also provide opportunities for family walks and enjoying the outdoors.
What is the significance of Clones 'Wee' Abbey?
Clones 'Wee' Abbey is a historically rich site, known locally as the 'Wee Abbey'. It's a ruined monastery that dates back to the 12th century, though its original foundation by St. Tigernach was as early as the 6th century. The abbey has a tumultuous history, having been destroyed by fire multiple times and suffering during the suppression of monasteries in the 16th century. Today, you can explore its crumbling walls and the surrounding graveyard.
Can I go fishing in the lakes around Loughgare?
Yes, Lough Corry, a mountain lake located in Doon Forest, is reputed for good brown trout fishing. Anglers can wade on one side of the shore or fish from a boat.
What is special about Clones Round Tower?
The Clones Round Tower was originally built around the 10th century as an integral part of the abbey complex. While its top section is now missing, it remains a prominent and recognizable feature on the Clones skyline. It once stood at 75 feet (23 meters) and included four storeys, with a bell storey at the top.
What kind of scenery can I expect at Carnmore Lough?
Carnmore Lough offers an extraordinarily wild and scenic landscape. As you travel down Carnmore Road, the lough appears on your right, set against a dramatic backdrop of vibrant green coniferous forest, providing a truly picturesque view of Northern Ireland's natural beauty.
Are there any specific cycling routes that pass by the historical sites?
Yes, there are road cycling and touring cycling routes that incorporate the historical sites. For example, you can find routes like the 'Clones Round Tower – Clones 'Wee' Abbey loop' starting from Clones, allowing you to cycle past these significant landmarks.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Loughgare?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. The ancient ruins of Clones 'Wee' Abbey and the iconic Clones Round Tower offer a glimpse into the region's rich past. Meanwhile, natural spots like Carnmore Lough are loved for their wild, scenic views and tranquil atmosphere, providing diverse exploration opportunities.
Are there opportunities for walking or hiking near Loughgare's attractions?
While specific hiking trails directly at the attractions are not detailed, the natural loughs and forests, such as those around Lough Corry and Carnmore Lough, offer picturesque spots for gentle walks. For more structured outdoor activity, you can explore the various running trails in the wider Loughgare area, which often pass through scenic landscapes.
Most popular routes around Loughgare
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
