Northern Ireland's Only Island Town Boasts Castle Views, Cozy Shops, & Cobbled Streets

Northern Ireland is famous for its rich history, cultural heritage, and bountiful natural beauty, such as the basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway, an underrated tourist attraction and a must-visit. In the southwest corner of the lakeland County Fermanagh lies Enniskillen. Northern Ireland's only island town is nestled amongst gently flowing branches of the River Erne and is a microcosm of the region itself. It's a beautiful village full of history; even its name derives from tales of a mythological Irish female warrior, an arrow that struck her, and her attempt to swim across the river.

The town bursts with history, stories, and charm everywhere you look, from the quaint shops and classic pubs to the towering walls of the 15th-century Enniskillen Castle on the banks of the river. Wandering the walkable cobbled streets, it's easy to get lost in thoughts of medieval times, or start to believe you're on the set of a show such as "Game of Thrones." That last part rings true for a reason: One of the most famous Victorian pubs in Ireland, Enniskillen's 125-year-old Blakes of the Hollow, is home to the Game of Thrones door four; its intricate carvings offer clues to the journey and fate of the House Targaryen.

Enniskillen wonderfully blends deep history with outdoor adventure and a small-town feel. It's perfect for a river cruise, admiring the charming buildings while popping into cozy shops, and then hiding in a pub for something hearty and warm. Seasoned travelers always rent a car when visiting Norther Ireland, and Enniskillen is just an hour and a half drive from Belfast International Airport. The town was once voted the most welcoming place in the U.K. and has plenty of unique, friendly accommodation options. It's well worth adding to a U.K., Ireland, or European travel itinerary.

Any visit to this island town should start at the iconic Enniskillen Castle. This movie-worthy fortress on the river's edge has tall stone walls and small towers with classic rectangular windows. Built in the 15th century by Hugh "The Hospitable" Maguire, the castle once served as a key stronghold in Gaelic Ireland, strategically positioned to guard one of the few passes upriver to Ulster.

These days, it has two museums: The Fermanagh County Museum, which explores the county's traditional rural life, and the Inniskillings Museum, where you can uncover the area's military and cultural history. The castle hosts programs, events, and exhibitions throughout the year that celebrate local craftsmanship, art, and rural traditions. From there, Enniskillen has a Castle to Castle path. Visitors can take an easy bike ride to the 18th-century Castle Coole 3 miles away. Once home to the Earls of Belmore, it's well-worth strolling through the neo-classical mansion, admiring the grandiose living areas, and stopping for a tea at the cafe before heading to the old stables, which have been converted into a secondhand bookshop.

For a more quirky experience, visitors can stop at the Headhunters Barber Shop & Railway Museum. There, you can dive into Irish history via the large collection of railway memorabilia and then get a haircut. This unique combination is the result of the Johnston family's barber skills and passion for local railway history. Visitors can also wander the Enniskillen streets and "Follow the Swallows," a public art installation of 150 gilded swallows that are scattered high on building walls in honor of "The Happy Prince" author Oscar Wilde, who studied in Enniskillen.

A trip to Enniskillen wouldn't be complete without exploring the River Erne and nearby Lough Erne, especially with a boat trip from the river to the lake. Visitors can choose from guided tours, such as the Erne Water Taxi or family-friendly Island Discovery. For those looking for something a little different — and some light exercise — jump on a hyrdobike. It's a fun, eco-friendly activity that lets you explore Enniskillen from a different angle. Back on dry land, art enthusiasts could check out the Enniskillen Murals Walk and tour the town's 12 murals, each with its own style and story.

Shopping for something special is made easy at The Buttermarket, an old dairy market courtyard that was converted into a collection of studios, galleries, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. After a day of touring, the best thing to do is stop in one of Enniskillen's many top-quality dining establishments, including the aforementioned Blakes of the Hollow, which has the restaurant 28 at The Hollow alongside. There are other great spots to choose from, including The Firehouse, The Crowes Nest, and The Street Kitchen. Can't decide where to eat? Sign up for The Enniskillen Taste Experience and let the guide take you on a gourmet tasting tour of all the best things the town has to offer.

For a small town, Enniskillen packs a ridiculous amount of culture, charm, and great eating along the River Erne. Perfect for weekend visits, it's also a great base for exploring the gorgeous surrounding lakelands and counties. You could even take a day trip to the Causeway Coastal Route; its coastal views are a must-see when driving through Northern Ireland.