Enniskillen
With its rich history and charming main street, Northern Ireland’s only island town of Enniskillen is a unique and memorable destination. The natural island, which separates upper and lower Lough Erne, is situated in the county of Fermanagh and is home to 11,500 people.
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History
According to legend, fierce mythological Irish warrior, Cethlenn, tried to escape via River Erne after a brutal arrow attack. Cethlenn wasn’t able to make it to the other side of the, and in honor of her heroic acts, the town was named after her.
The hustle and bustle and unique, stunning architecture found in Enniskillen are both exciting and breathtaking. The town, set against rippling, beautiful waters, awaits an adventure.
Explore Enniskillen
At the top of your travel to-do list should be Enniskillen Castle. Originally built in the 15th century, Enniskillen Castle has been a major part of the town’s history since.
Located within the castle are two museums: the Fermanagh County Museum, which examines local crafts and rural life in the county, and the Inniskillings Museum, which shares the region’s military history with displays of artifacts and memorabilia dating back to the 1600s.
From there, enjoy a scenic, leisurely three-mile bike ride from Enniskillen to the 18th century neo-classical Castle Coole, located outside of town. Home to the Earls of Belmore, Castle Coole is a grandiose mansion, ready to be explored. Grap a cup of tea and take in the gorgeous grounds before heading back to Enniskillen.
After, a long bike ride, we have the perfect way to cool off and relax. Take advantage of Lough Erne’s pristine waters and enjoy all that lake life has to offer.
Cool off with a swim, waterski, wakeboard, or take it easy and set sail. There are incredible sights to be seen, including a magnificent 12th-century monastery located on Devenish Island on Lower Lough Erne, or striking, thousand-year-old stone figures on another island, White Island.
Of course, the town of Enniskillen itself is not to be missed. With dozens of galleries, shops, studios, and cafes, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
A magical island in Northern Ireland, Enniskillen is a treasure waiting to be explored.