Monastery magic on the water
The early Christian Monastery and round tower at Devenish is one of Ireland’s most iconic historical sites. The monastery is situated on an island, making for an almost fairytale-like experience, when visiting.
Getting here
Getting here
Getting to Devenish Island
Devenish Island can only be accessed by water, making the journey across Lough Erne an important part of the visitor experience.
The island is located approximately 2km from Enniskillen and is most commonly reached by boat from the town. Visitors travelling by car will find parking available in Enniskillen, with boat departures operating from the town’s waterfront.
Boat Access
Erne Water Taxi offers guided boat trips from Enniskillen to one of Ireland’s most important monastic sites. The journey provides an opportunity to experience the unique landscape, heritage and stories of Lough Erne before arriving at the island.
Unlike many boat services, the experience includes a fully guided tour of Devenish Island itself. Visitors are accompanied by an experienced local guide who brings to life the site’s rich monastic heritage, round tower, medieval church ruins and the stories of the monks, pilgrims, settlers and island communities connected to this remarkable place over the centuries.
Public Devenish Island tours operate throughout the visitor season, with private departures available daily.
Based at Enniskillen Castle Museums Jetty, Erne Water Taxi is one of Fermanagh’s leading guided boat tour operators and is currently ranked as the number one outdoor activity in Fermanagh on TripAdvisor.
By Road
Enniskillen is approximately:
• 90 minutes from Belfast
• 2 hours from Dublin
• 90 minutes from Derry/Londonderry
• 40 minutes from Sligo
Public Transport
Regular bus services connect Enniskillen with Belfast, Dublin, Derry/Londonderry and other towns across the region. Visitors arriving by public transport can easily walk from the waterfront departure point.
Further Information and Bookings
Erne Water Taxi
• Tel: +44(0)7719770588
• Web: www.ernewatertaxi.com
Facilities
Toilets and an extensive exhibition area.
Accessibility
Heritage
Devenish Monastic Site was founded in the 6th Century by Saint Molaise on one of Lough Erne’s many islands. During its history it has been raided by Vikings (837AD), burned (1157AD) and flourished (Middle Ages) as a parish church site and St Mary’s Augustine Priory.
There are ruins from different time periods on site; the earliest being St Molaise house (small church) and the round tower which are 12th Century. A second church from the 13th Century, which was extended over time, was the lower church. St Mary’s Augustinian Priory on the hilltop has been dated from the middle 15th Century to early 16th Century with a church, tower and small cloister. In the graveyard stands a distinctive, unusual, intricately carved stone cross from the 15th Century.
Visitors have described the site as “Mystical” and “Extremely impressive”, with many of the island’s guests noting how magnificent the high stone cross is. A wonderful spot to learn, explore and share.