Things to Do in Co Fermanagh, Northern Ireland: A Complete Guide

Fermanagh, located in Northern Ireland, is a hidden gem filled with stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and plenty of outdoor activities. With its tranquil lakes, ancient Castles, and unique attractions, Fermanagh is perfect for those looking to explore off the beaten path. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or food, this guide covers everything you need to know, including where to stay, eat, and what to do in this beautiful County.

I’ve been to and through Fermanagh dozens of times and every time I’ve found something new to explore.

Fermanagh is a County located in Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. It is one of the six counties of Northern Ireland and lies within the historic province of Ulster. Fermanagh is known for its scenic lakes and waterways, including Lough Erne, a major lake system split into Upper and Lower Lough Erne.

The main town is, which is situated on an island between two sections of the Lough. It is bordered by counties Tyrone (NE), Monaghan (Republic of Ireland, S), Cavan (Republic of Ireland, SW), and Leitrim (Republic of Ireland, W).

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When to Visit Fermanagh

What is the best time to visit Fermanagh?

If you’re planning a visit to Fermanagh, the best time is during the warmer months, particularly from late spring to early autumn. During this period, you’ll find a ton of activities to enjoy, from exploring Lough Erne to taking in some historic Castles and ruins.

In 2025, Fermanagh and Omagh District Council plans to enhance tourism initiatives like Discover NI, showcasing the rich history of Lough Erne and its connection to the 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards and the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers.

Fermanagh’s attractions can be enjoyed year-round, but your experience will vary by season:

Spring (March-May): Fermanagh Ideal for garden visits at Florence Court and Castle Coole as flowers bloom. Water levels on Lough Erne are typically high, making it excellent for boating. Temperatures range from 8-15°C with occasional rainfall.

Summer (June-August): Fermanagh Peak season with longest daylight hours (up to 10:30 PM in June). All boat services and outdoor activities operate at full schedule. Warmest temperatures (15-22°C) make this ideal for water activities. Accommodation prices are highest and pre-booking is essential.

Autumn (September-November): Fermanagh Beautiful foliage colors in woodland areas. Fewer crowds at major attractions. Marble Arch Caves remain accessible until late October. Temperatures cool to 6-14°C.

Winter (December-February): Fermanagh Many outdoor attractions have limited hours or seasonal closure. The Marble Arch Caves close for winter. Indoor attractions like Enniskillen Castle Museum and Belleek Pottery remain open with reduced hours. Accommodation prices are lowest during this period. Temperatures range from 2-8°C.

FAQs about County Fermanagh

What are the top attractions in Enniskillen?

The town of Enniskillen boasts several top attractions, including the historic Castle, which houses a museum showcasing the area’s military history. Additionally, Castle Coole and Florence Court are popular National Trust properties worth visiting. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy water activities on Lough Erne or take a scenic walk along the Cuilcagh boardwalk trail, nicknamed the Stairway to Heaven.

What types of water activities can you do in Fermanagh?

You can take part in a variety of water activities on the lakes. Popular options include canoeing, boat hire, and fishing on the scenic Upper Lough Erne and include lower Lough Erne. You can also explore the lakes by taking a guided boat tour, which will include Lower stops at attractions like Devenish Island.

How do I get to Fermanagh?

Traveling to Fermanagh is accessible via various modes of transportation. If you’re coming from Northern Ireland, you can drive or take a bus to Enniskillen, which is the main town. The closest airports are Derry Airport (LDY) at 52 miles and Belfast International Airport (BFS) and George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) at roughly 80 miles. For those traveling from the Republic of Ireland, you can access Fermanagh via road connections from counties like Leitrim and Cavan. It’s also a great road trip that doesn’t take too long from Donegal.

How to travel in Fermanagh

Traveling between attractions in Fermanagh County Fermanagh, is relatively easy, though public transport options can be limited in rural areas. Here are the best ways to get around:

Fermanagh By Car (Recommended)

1. Best for flexibility, as many attractions are spread out.
2. Fermanagh Rental cars available in Enniskillen (Enterprise, Europcar, etc.).
3. Scenic drives Fermanagh like the Lough Erne Driving Route make road trips enjoyable.
4. Fermanagh Parking is generally available at major attractions (e.g., Marble Arch Caves, Cuilcagh Boardwalk, Devenish Island ferry).

Public Transport (Bus)

 Ulsterbus (Translink) operates routes between key towns and attractions:

Enniskillen ↔ Belleek (for Belleek Pottery)

Enniskillen ↔ Derrygonnelly (near Marble Arch Caves)

Enniskillen ↔ Lisnaskea Fermanagh (for Crom Estate)

Check schedules in advance, as services can be infrequent (especially on Sundays).

Taxis & Private hire and tours

Useful for reaching remote attractions (e.g., Cuilcagh Boardwalk).

Cycling & Walking 

Great cycling routes –  (e.g., FermanaghLough Erne Cycle Trail, Marble Arch to Florence Court

Fermanagh Bike rentals – available in Enniskillen (e.g., Fermanagh Outdoor)

Some attractions (like Devenish Island) require short ferry rides or walks.

Top Things to Do in Fermanagh

Explore the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark

Location: Florence court, Co. Fermanagh, Cost: Adults £16.00, Children £8.00

One of the finest show caves in Europe, the Marble Arch Caves offer a guided underground tour through a network of limestone caves, rivers, and waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy a boat trip inside the caves, marveling at the stalactites and stalagmites.

Visit Boa Island

Location: situated in Lower Lough Erne. It is the largest island in Lough Erne and is connected to the mainland by bridges, making it easily accessible by road.

Boa Island is a hidden gem steeped in the history of Lough Erne. This incredible location features the iconic Janus head, a fascinating stone sculpture that offers a glimpse into the past. As you make your way to Boa Island, you’ll find a convenient car park at the beginning of the road to the Cemetery which is called Caldaragh – don’t miss the sign it is very small. When you park you head down to the cemetery where you will find the Janus Head and other gravestones.

Games of Thrones Fan sites

For fans of Game of Thrones, a trip to Fermanagh offers a wealth of experiences that echo the epic landscapes of Westeros. You can read more in my epic guide to all the Game of Thrones Sites across Northern Ireland – and yes I am a super fan. The exterior of Pollnagollum Cave was used to film Beric Dondarrion’s hideout in Season 3.

In Blakes of the Hollows pub in Enniskillen you will find one of the stunning doors made from the trees that fell during a storm in the Dark Hedges.

Explore the Fermanagh Lakeland Forum

The Lakeland Forum serves as a major tourist attraction The Lower Lakeland Forum is a premier leisure and fitness facility located on the shores of Lower Lough Erne. This modern complex offers a range of activities, including a 25-meter swimming pool, a fully equipped gym, fitness classes, and a children’s play area. It also features a climbing wall, sports halls for badminton and basketball, and an outdoor multi-use games.

Pollnagollum Cave 

Located:  Belmore Forest, viewing platform is free

This cave was used as Beric Dondarrion’s hideout in season three of Game of Thrones, the cave’s name is Irish for “Hole of the doves”. The cave is fed by a waterfall and is part of the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark. You can view the cave by following the Belmore Forest walk.

Visit Enniskillen Castle and Museum

Location: Enniskillen – Cost: Adults £6.00, Children £4.50

This historic Castle dates to the 16^th century was once a stronghold of the Maguire chieftains and it now houses two museums: the Fermanagh County Museum and the Enniskillen Museum. The Castle Grounds are situated on the banks of the River Erne. Learn about the County’s rich history, military heritage, and archaeology.

Take a Boat Trip to Devenish Island

Location: Lower Lough Erne, Cost: Boat trips start from £14 adult and £10 children

Home to one of Ireland’s best-preserved monastic sites, Devenish Island features a 12th-century round tower, ancient ruins, and stunning lake views. The island is accessible by boat, and many tours operate from.

Relax at Lough Erne

Location: Throughout County Fermanagh, Cost: Free (boat hire and water activities vary in price)

Lough Erne consists of Upper and Lower Lough Erne, offering fantastic opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing. You can rent a boat for a day and explore the many small islands scattered throughout the lake.

Discover Florence Court House & Gardens

Location: Florence court, Co. Fermanagh, Cost: Adults £15.40, Children £7.70

This 18th-century Georgian mansion, managed by the National Trust, boasts beautifully preserved interiors, extensive gardens, and walking trails. Don’t miss the original Irish Yew tree, which originated from Florence Court.

Climb Cuilcagh Mountain Park Boardwalk (The Stairway to Heaven)

Location: Near Florence court, Co. Fermanagh, Cost: Free (Parking: £6 per car)

One of Ireland’s most famous hiking trails, the boardwalk leads you up to breathtaking panoramic views from the top of Cuilcagh Mountain. As you ascend the wooden boardwalk that protects the fragile blanket bog, you’ll traverse across rugged mountain terrain before reaching the famous stairway section. The hike takes around 3-4 hours and is of moderate difficulty however there are 450 steps to climb, so if you are limited in mobility this will be an extreme challenge. I couldn’t make it so sent my husband and son up to take photos for me.

The 450 steps to the summit viewing platform allows you to see (on clear days) across eight counties in Ireland.

The boardwalk was constructed to protect the environmentally sensitive peatland habitat and the surrounding landscape features rare birds including hen harriers and merlins.

The area and walk is best photographed in morning light when shadows accentuate the boardwalk’s unique pattern. I highly recommend to bringing water, sturdy footwear, and layered clothing as weather changes rapidly

The best time to arrive is before 10:00 AM on summer weekends to secure parking and avoid crowds on the narrow boardwalk sections. The trail is particularly beautiful in autumn when the bog turns golden and russet coloured.

Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark

Cuilcagh Lakelands Geopark, one of four transnational Geoparks in the world as it straddles County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland (UK) and Cavan in the Republic of Ireland, became the world’s first cross border UNESCO Global Geopark in 2008.

Visit Castle Coole

Location:, Co. Fermanagh, Cost: Adults  £14.30, Children £7.20

A late-18th-century neo-classical mansion in set in a 1,200-acre wooded estate. Castle Coole, an elegant 18th-century neoclassical mansion and is one of Northern Ireland’s most magnificent stately homes. Designed by architect James Wyatt and completed in 1798, this grand estate was built for the Earls of Belmore and showcases exquisite Palladian-style architecture, opulent interiors, and lavish Regency furnishings.

Visitors can explore the stunning state rooms, including the lavish saloon, gilded dining room, and a unique basement servants’ quarters. The surrounding 600-acre woodland park features serene lakes, walking trails, and abundant wildlife, making it a perfect spot for a scenic stroll.  

Try Water Sports at Share Discovery Village

Location: Lisnaskea, Co. Fermanagh, Cost: Activities start from £21 per person

This adventure center on Lough Erne offers a range of activities, including canoeing, kayaking, archery, and stand-up paddle boarding, making it a great spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

​Castle Crom Estate

Location: Upper Lough Erne, Newtownbutler, Adult £9.90 Children £5.00

Crom Castle is a stunning 19th-century estate set amidst one of Ireland’s most important areas of natural beauty. Overlooking Lough Erne, the Castle is part of a vast demesne (Estate) featuring the ruins of the original Crom Castle, which dates back to the 17th century.

Surrounding the estate are ancient woodlands, home to some of the oldest yew trees in Ireland, rare wildlife, and picturesque walking trails. Managed by the National Trust, the grounds offer a peaceful retreat with scenic views, historic ruins, and the chance to spot red deer, otters, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can explore the tranquil lakeside paths, discover old church ruins, and enjoy a relaxing escape into nature.

BOOK CROM CASTLE NOW – Catering Cottages: Price range: €120 – €350 per night.

Exclusive Castle Stays: Rarely available for private stays, but if booking through special arrangements, expect €3,000+ per week.

Belle Isle Castle 

Location:  Belle Isle Estate, 10 Belle Isle Demesne, Lisbellaw, Enniskillen, prices ranging from £68 to £897 per night, depending on the type of room, season, and duration of stay.

Belle Isle Castle is a stunning 17th-century estate nestled on Belle Isle, a picturesque island on Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. Originally built as a Jacobean-style Castle, it was later transformed into an elegant Georgian mansion and is now a luxurious self-catering accommodation and wedding venue.

The estate spans 470 acres of lush woodlands, serene gardens, and scenic lakeshore, offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and walking trails.

Activities and facilities at the castle include:

– Self-catering apartments in the courtyard buildings

– Exclusive castle hire for groups and events

– Cooking school experiences available with pre-booking

– Walking trails through the 470-acre estate (guests only)

– Fishing permits available for salmon and trout (£45/day)

– Historical tours of the castle available Tuesday and Thursday at 2:00 PM by appointment (£12.50)

BOOK YOUR STAY AT BELLE ISLE CASTLE NOW –  Price range: €150 – €400 per night (depending on size and season). Larger lodges (sleeping 8+) can cost €500–€1,000+ per night.

Discover the Fermanagh Lakelands

The Fermanagh Lakelands, is a breathtaking expanse of shimmering lakes, winding waterways, and lush green landscapes. Renowned as the “Lake District of Ireland,” this serene region is centered around Upper and Lower Lough Erne, a sprawling network of islands, inlets, and tranquil shores. The Lakelands offer a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, and lakeside hiking, and the Cladagh Glen’s woodland walks.

Visit Ancient White Island and its treasures

Location:  White Island, Lower Lough Erne, the ferry ride costs £3 per person

White Island, located in the serene waters of Lower Lough Erne, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and ancient history. This small, uninhabited island is renowned for its remarkable collection of early Christian stone carvings, dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries.

The most striking feature is the group of six enigmatic figures embedded in the walls of a ruined medieval church, their origins and meanings still shrouded in mystery. Accessible by boat from nearby towns like or Castle Archdale, the island is surrounded by tranquil waters and lush landscapes.

Monea Castle 

Location: Townland of Castletown Monea, entry is free

Monea Castle is a striking example of a 17th-century fortified tower house. Built in 1618 by the Reverend Malcolm Hamilton, the Castle features a rectangular plan with rounded corners and a prominent three-story tower. Its design, complete with gun loops and a bawn wall, reflects the turbulent times of the Plantation of Ulster, when such structures were necessary for defense.

Wander Around Belleek Pottery Visitor Centre

Location: Belleek, Co. Fermanagh, Cost: Free entry

Established in 1857, Belleek Pottery is famous worldwide for its handcrafted porcelain. Take a guided tour of the factory to see the delicate pottery-making process and browse the showroom for unique souvenirs.

Visit Tully Castle

Location: Near Derrygonnelly, Co. Fermanagh, Cost: Free entry

A hauntingly beautiful 17th-century Castle ruin overlooking Lough Erne, Tully Castle is a peaceful spot to explore and enjoy the lakeside scenery.

All pricing for entry fees and activities is based on 2025 figures.

Where to Stay in Fermanagh

Finn Lough Bubble Dome stay

The Forest Bubble Domes feature 180° transparent walls allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of nature. Escape the noise of the outside world and enjoy stargazing in comfort for the perfect romantic break in Northern Ireland.

Lough Erne Resort – A 5-star resort situated on Lough Erne boasts 2 championship golf courses, a Thai spa, and an infinity pool, situated on the Lough Erne resort. Rooms have luxurious furnishings and lake views.

Inishclare Cottages – Inishclare Cottages in Enniskillen offers a 3-star villa with a sun terrace, water sports facilities, and a beautiful garden. Free WiFi is available throughout the property.

Broadview Georgian townhouse – Luxury Lakeside Living Broadview 2 Georgian Town House in Fermanagh and Omagh offers a spacious villa with five bedrooms and two bathrooms. The property features a living room, dining area, and a fully equipped kitchen.

Where to Eat in Fermanagh

28 At The Hollow – 6 Church St, Enniskillen alongside Blake of the Hollows pub with its Game of Thrones Door.  A top-rated fine dining restaurant serving locally sourced, seasonal dishes. This is my favourite restaurant in Enniskillen with absolutely wonderful food.

The Catalina Restaurant (Lough Erne Resort) – One of Northern Ireland’s best restaurants, offering gourmet cuisine in a luxurious setting.

The Firehouse – A popular spot in Enniskillen known for wood-fired pizzas and burgers.

Rebecca’s Coffee Shop (Belleek) – A cozy café serving delicious homemade treats and coffee.

Traditional Irish Pubs

Blakes of the Hollow, Enniskillen – One of the oldest and most famous pubs in Ireland, perfect for a pint of Guinness and traditional Irish music. Game of thrones fans will also find a stunning carved door made from the fallen trees in the Dark Hedges.

Charlie’s Bar, Enniskillen – A lively, historic pub with a great selection of drinks and a friendly atmosphere.

Fermanagh is a fantastic destination with a perfect mix of history, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins, hiking to scenic viewpoints, or cruising across Lough Erne, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With excellent accommodation options, great food, and plenty of attractions, Fermanagh is a must-visit destination in Northern Ireland.

So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, be sure to add these amazing things to do in Fermanagh to your itinerary!