- Written By Victoria Stokes
- July 18th, 2022
- 7 Reasons To Visit Enniskillen For A Day Trip Or Weekend Away
From a tourist’s perspective, Enniskillen has a clearing selling point: it’s Ireland’s only island town and a fantastic starting point for anyone exploring the Fermanagh Lakelands.
It’s also nestled just across the Northern Irish border, making it a great spot for travellers north and south.
If you’re on the fence about a day trip or weekend away in Enniskillen, here are just a few reasons you should give the town a visit…
The beautiful scenery
In a world of smartphones, traffic delays, and endless distractions, getting back to nature is key and you’ll have loads of opportunities to do exactly that in Enniskillen.
The town and surrounding areas are home to some of the most beautiful forest parks and waterways in the world, from the Cuilcagh Legnabrocky Boardwalk to the breathtaking Magho Viewpoint at Lough Navar.
The food scene is second to none
You’re pretty much guaranteed good grub in Enniskillen, whatever your palate.
The Firehouse is located right in the centre of town and is a popular haunt for locals and tourists alike, serving up top-class cocktails and moreish foodie delights, including pizzas, flatbreads, and more.
On the hunt for brunch? Make The Street Kitchen your go-to. It serves up unique and delicious creations.
Other foodie hotspots include: 28 At The Hollow, Crowe’s Nest, The Taphouse, and The Bees Knees
There are loads of on-the-water experiences
Lough Erne is where Enniskillen really comes into its own and there are many ways for you to enjoy it, whether you’re visiting for a few nights or just for the day.
One of the newest ways to take to the water is on a hydrobike, a kind of paddleboard-bike hybrid.
If you’d rather sit back and let someone else take the wheel, book the MV Kestrel. This fully-glazed waterbus lets you take in some of the most scenic and culturally significant sights on the lough, including Devenish Island – an early Christian monastic site.
If you plan on extending your stay in County Fermanagh, consider renting a luxury cruiser from Manor House Marina and Boat Hire. The largest of their fleet sleeps up to eight people.
However you choose to explore Lough Erne, you’re guaranteed to come away with great memories and lots of pics. There are over 42-square miles of waterway to see and experience and – trust us, on this one – the scenery is simply majestic.
It’s a great town for shopping
Enniskillen is known as a shopping destination and for good reason. As well as loads of local independent retailers – like Shuphoric, Graham’s, and Fermanagh Cottage Industries – it’s home to many big-name brands.
In Erneside Shopping Centre you’ll find New Look, Next, and M&S, alongside other popular retailers like Card Factory, Monsoon, and River Island.
There are loads more stores on the recently updated high street too – including The Works and B&M – with plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat if you need to refuel.
As if that’s not enough, there’s a new retail park set to take up residence in Enniskillen in the near future too.
The bar scene is thriving
One thing is certain: you won’t go thirsty in Enniskillen. We haven’t done the measurements, but we’d wager that there’s a watering hole approximately every 500 yards in the town centre.
If traditional Irish pubs are your thing, you should head to Charlie’s Bar, Pat’s, and Blakes Of The Hollow (the latter is also home to one of the Game Of Thrones doors.)
If cocktails are more your thing, drop by M Lounge on Darling Street, Magees Spirit Store, and The Firehouse for all the classics.
Looking for a lively atmosphere and toe-tapping live music? Go to Granny Annie’s.
There’s plenty to entertain the kids
Sometimes keeping the kids entertained can be a tall order. Fortunately, there’s no shortage of activities to amuse the little ones in Enniskillen.
There’s the Round ‘O, a playpark next to the water (don’t forget to visit the ducks), Castle Archdale (an expansive forest park on the water’s edge with kid-friendly biking and hiking trails), and the March Arch Caves – a network of limestone caves that’s are as educational as they are mind-blowing.
Hungry? 9th Avenue Restaurant on the Sligo Road has kid-friendly meals and is also home to a bowling alley.
There are loads of great hotels… and glamping experiences too!
Enniskillen is no stranger to tourists so it’s no surprise that our hotels are some of the best in the country.
Lough Erne Resort and Spa is one of the best-known hotels in County Fermanagh. It’s a luxury five-star resort with 120 rooms and a reputation for spectacular views and top-class food.
Closer to the town, you’ll also find The Killyhevlin Hotel, situated on the water’s edge and offering hotel suite and chalet options.
If you’d rather something a little more off-beat, book Finn Lough, a forest getaway experience.
As well as a luxurious forest spa, the resort is home to bubble domes, giving you a unique opportunity to be at one with nature and sleep under the stars.
You’ll also find glamping experiences at Rossharbour Resort and Carrickreagh Bay.
For more info on what to eat, drink, and do in Enniskillen, keep up to date with Enniskillen.com.
