Enniskillen - Tourist Attractions

Enniskillen Castle was first built in the early 15th century by Hugh Maguire, to command the Erne.

It saw many battles during the Gaelic rebellions, and fell after an eight day seige in 1594. It was refurbished and remodelled in 1607 under Captain William Cole. It was again remodelled in the 18th century as the Castle Barracks. Today the keep houses the Fermanagh County Museum and the Regimental Museum of the Royal Enniskilling Fusiliers.

St Michael's Roman Catholic Church. Built between 1870-75, this large French Gothic Revival church was designed by John O'Neill one of the most distinguished Catholic architects working in the north of Ireland in the 19th Century . The main spire planned by the architect was finished in 1992.

St. Macartin's Church of Ireland Cathedral and Graveyard. Set against the 1637 tower of an earlier church built in 1620s the present building, designed by Thomas Elliott and opened in1842, is characteristic of early Victorian architecture. In 1923 it was promoted to cathedral status of the diocese of Clogher.

The Methodist Church with its fine classical facade was designed by W. J. Barre of Belfast and built between 1865-67, the third Methodist Church on this site. In 1888 this was adjoined to the new McArthur Hall. McArthur was an Enniskillener who went to be Lord Mayor of London and generously gave to his former congregation.

On the outskirts of Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh stands Castle Coole, the family home of the Earls of Belmore and one of the treasures of the National Trust.

Highlights of a tour of Castle Coole are the magnificent state rooms with their sumptuous Regency furnishings. These include the State Bedroom said to have been prepared for a visit by George IV in 1821.

Visitors may enjoy walks in the grounds and also see the Grand Yard, the Servants' Tunnel, the recently restored Ice House, the dairy, stables, laundry house and display room which includes the Belmore Private Coach.