A Tourist’s Guide To Enniskillen Castle, County Fermanagh

Date: March 10, 2023
Time to read: 4 min.

A Tourist’s Guide To Enniskillen Castle, County Fermanagh

Welcome to the second instalment of Enniskillen Tour Guides: a new series that will give you a detailed breakdown of the very best tourist attractions Enniskillen – and County Fermanagh – have to offer. This week, we’re sharing everything you need to know about a trip to Enniskillen Castle.

Driving through Enniskillen town, you can’t miss this stunning 15-century castle, nestled on the banks of Lough Erne.

Also known as Fermanagh County Museum, this medieval castle was once the home of Gaelic clan the Maguires and has been strategically important throughout its 600-year history, guarding one of the few passages into Ulster.

The site served as an English Garrison fort in the 17th century and later became a military barracks. In 2016, the castle underwent a major redevelopment and has since become a popular tourist attraction for visitors near and far.

Rich in culture and serving as a ‘heritage gateway’ for tourists, the stunning landmark is a must-see first port of call for anyone visiting Enniskillen.

What to expect

Enniskillen Castle is home to two museums – Fermanagh County Museum and the Inniskillings Museum – and also houses a state-of-the-art visitor’s centre.

You’ll also find art galleries and a café on-site.

During a self-guided tour at the castle, you’ll travel through time, learning about the castle’s earliest inhabitants and its unique history. Your tour will take you into the historic castle buildings and courtyard, as well as into the oldest rooms in Enniskillen.

You’ll learn about the Maguires, – who built the castle and ruled County Fermanagh from the end of the 13th Century until the beginning of the 17th century – the plantation years, and Fermanagh’s workhouses.

Meanwhile, the Inniskillings Museum documents the history of two of Enniskillen’s famed military regiments, with a collection of regimental trophies, uniforms, weaponry, and more.

Who’s it for?

History buffs will love this tour, but it’s a great option for anyone who wants to delve into Enniskillen’s past and understand the town’s beginnings a little better.

If you’re not so big on history, the castle also provides the perfect backdrop for snaps and is a great option if you’re looking to pass a rainy afternoon in the town.

How much is it?

A tour of Enniskillen castle is budget-friendly with adult tickets costing just £5. Senior citizens, students, and children over five can enter for £3.50, and under fives get free admission.

Family rates are also available.

Is it suitable for the kids?

Enniskillen Castle welcomes kids and the little ones should learn plenty while taking the tour. The good news? The tour is self-guided so you can pace yourself according to your kids’ attention span. There are also plenty of interactive displays to keep them amused.

In particular, the little ones may enjoy the Inniskillings Museum which is home to military exhibits and packed full of information about Enniskillen’s fascinating military history.

When is it open?

Enniskillen Castle’s Visitor Centre is open Monday to Friday 9.30am to 5pm all year round and on Sundays from 11.00am to 5pm during the months of June to September.

The castle closes over the Christmas and New Year period and opening hours will vary on bank holidays.

What else is there to do nearby?

Castle Coole

This National Trust site is home to an 18-century neo-classical house and 1,200 acres of wooded parkland. As well as plenty of walking trails, there’s also a children’s play park on site.

Sample Enniskillen’s food scene

From Enniskillen Castle, you can take a dander up the town and grab a bite to eat. Enniskillen has a reputation for great grub and you’ll find something for every palate, whether you fancy a light lunch, bistro bites, or fine dining.

We’ve rounded up some of the best places for a bite to eat here.

Erne Water Taxis

At Enniskillen Castle, you’ll admire views of Lough Erne, so why not take to the water? Erne Water Taxis offers a wide range of private and speciality sailing tours, including an Island Town tour with a local historian.

Special considerations

You won’t need any special gear to enjoy Enniskillen Castle, though it’s a good idea to bring a brolly so you don’t get wet while walking to and from the museum buildings.

What do reviewers have to say?

Since its renovation in 2016, Enniskillen Castle has received many positive reviews. One reviewer described it as “Fermanagh at its best”.

Another reviewer writes, “There is a range of things to see at Enniskillen Castle – a diverse offering. The museum has a range of displays, covering a number of periods. In addition, there is an exhibition space with both permanent and temporary exhibits. The castle is in a lovely location, situated on the bend of the river.”

How to book

Tickets are available via the Enniskillen Castle website under the ‘explore the castle’ tab.

Fancy a sneak peek first? You can take a 360-degree virtual tour on the website prior to booking.

For more information on what to eat, drink and do in Enniskillen, keep up to date with Enniskillen.com.

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