Experience the Magic of Christmas in Fermanagh
Discover festive things to do in Fermanagh this Christmas
Island Discovery Winter Warmer Tour
Share Discovery Village
Share Discovery Village is starting Christmas in style with Festive Roller Skating, available from 22nd November to 1st December and again from 27th December to 4th January. Perfect for all ages and abilities, whether you’re a beginner or a skating pro!
New this year, Share is also hosting a Christmas Wonderland, featuring a magical Santa’s Grotto Experience from 6th to 23rd December.
Find out more about Christmas at Share.
Elf Escape at Marble Arch Caves
Add a touch of magic to your trip with the Marble Arch Caves! For just £4 per person, embark on an enchanting Elf Escape woodland quest, tracking down Santa’s mischievous elves turned Heroes and Villains.
Guests with access or sensory needs can enjoy a quieter option with the Elf Escape Takeover – Sensory Space, complete with a dedicated activity sheet.
Plus, don’t miss Mrs. Claus’s Cottage storytelling experience and the chance to post your letter to Santa!
Fermanagh Fun Farm
Celebrate Christmas at the Fermanagh Fun Farm, where you can Build a Bear with Santa’s elves in the workshop, enjoy a delightful storytime with Mrs. Claus, and meet Santa himself to choose your own special gift!
Running from 30th November to 22nd December, the Festive Fun Farm promises a magical experience for all.
Christmas in Enniskillen Castle
Experience the festive Christmas Farmer’s Market and Santa Saturday on 7th December!
The Christmas Farmers Market offers a wide array of unique, handcrafted gifts and local delicacies, adding a touch of magic to the area.
You also have the opportunity to meet Santa in a festive grotto, post your letters, and enjoy a magical Christmas trail around the museums. Explore the castle’s history, and enjoy interactive displays that transport you back in time during this festive period.
Pre-booking is advised. Find out more.
Winter Wonderland at Castle Coole
Experience the enchantment of the holiday season with a visit to Castle Coole. This year, Castle Coole is hosting a truly spectacular Christmas celebration that promises to add a touch of magic to your festivities.
Santa has been hard at work, preparing for the annual Winter Wonderland at Castle Coole. He’s gone above and beyond to spread his festive cheer. Accompanied by Mrs. Claus and their team of elves, you’ll embark on a magical journey like no other.
At Castle Coole, Christmas isn’t just a holiday; it’s an enchanting experience that will warm your heart and create cherished memories for years.
Suggested Christmas in Fermanagh Itinerary
Your Perfect 2-Night Christmas Break in Fermanagh
Staying at Belmore Court & Motel
Day One: Arrival & Enniskillen Town
– Check-in at Belmore Court & Motel from 3 pm
– Settle into your comfortable room and freshen up
– The friendly reception staff will provide you with maps and information about local Christmas events
Afternoon (4 pm – 6 pm)
– Take a leisurely 10-minute stroll into Enniskillen town centre
– Experience the enchanting Christmas lights and decorations throughout the town
– Visit the Buttermarket Craft & Design Centre (open until 5:30 pm) for unique local crafts and Christmas gifts
– Browse through Erneside Shopping Centre’s festive offerings (open until 9 pm on selected Christmas dates)
Evening (6 pm onwards)
– Enjoy a festive dinner at The Firehouse Restaurant (5-minute walk from Belmore Court)
– Pre-booking is essential during the Christmas season
– Special seasonal menu featuring local produce
– Festive cocktails and mulled wine are available
– Take an evening stroll along the illuminated Castle Basin
– Return to Belmore Court for a comfortable night’s rest
Day Two: Full Day of Festive Activities
Morning (9 am – 12 pm)
– Start with breakfast at your leisure
– Drive to Share Discovery Village’s Christmas Wonderland (20-minute drive)
– Meet Santa in his grotto (pre-book your time slot)
– Experience the winter roller rink
– Visit Santa’s donkeys
– Perfect for family photos in Santa’s igloo
Lunch Break (12:30 pm – 2 pm)
– Return to Enniskillen
– Enjoy lunch at The Jolly Sandwich Bar (5-minute walk from Belmore Court)
– Try their famous Christmas sandwich special
– Homemade soup and festive treats available
Afternoon (2 pm – 5 pm)
– Visit Marble Arch Caves (30-minute drive)
– Experience Mrs Claus’s Cottage
– Participate in the Elf Escape – Heroes vs Villains trail
– Warm up with hot chocolate in the visitor centre
– Post letters to Santa in the special North Pole mailbox
Evening (6 pm onwards)
– Return to Belmore Court to refresh
– Christmas dinner at The Westville Hotel’s Restaurant (10-minute walk)
– Traditional Christmas menu with modern twists
– Festive atmosphere with Christmas decorations
– Live music on selected evenings
– Evening entertainment options:
– Christmas movies in your comfortable room
– Visit Blakes of the Hollow pub for traditional Irish music (weekends)
– Take an evening walk through the town to see the Christmas lights.
Day Three: Morning Activities & Departure
Morning (9 am – 12 pm)
– Breakfast at leisure
– Final Christmas shopping at Erneside Shopping Centre
– Visit Enniskillen Castle Museums to learn about local Christmas traditions
– Check-out by 11 am
Essential Booking Information
– Pre-book all Christmas experiences, especially:
– Santa visits
– Restaurant reservations
– Marble Arch Caves activities
– Contact Belmore Court & Motel reception for assistance with bookings
– Ask about special Christmas packages and rates
Travel Tips
1. Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring Enniskillen
2. Bring warm, waterproof clothing for outdoor activities
3. Keep camera charged for festive photo opportunities
4. Carry cash for local craft markets and small shops
5. Download local taxi numbers for evening transport
Optional Add-ons
– Book a festive afternoon tea at Lough Erne Resort
– Arrange a Christmas craft workshop at The Firehouse
– Visit the Ulster American Folk Park’s Christmas experience (45-minute drive)
– Book a festive boat trip on Lough Erne (weather permitting)
Distance from Belmore Court & Motel to Key Attractions
– Enniskillen Town Centre: 10-minute walk
– Erneside Shopping Centre: 5-minute walk
– Share Discovery Village: 20-minute drive
– Marble Arch Caves: 30-minute drive
– Lough Erne Resort: 10-minute drive
– Ulster American Folk Park: 45-minute drive
Weather Considerations
December in Fermanagh can be chilly and wet. Pack accordingly with:
– Warm layers
– Waterproof coat
– Sturdy footwear
– Umbrella
– Gloves and scarf
This itinerary provides a perfect blend of festive activities, local culture, and Christmas shopping while ensuring comfortable breaks at your centrally located accommodation. Remember to book activities in advance during the busy Christmas period, and don’t hesitate to ask Belmore Court & Motel staff for additional recommendations or assistance with bookings.
Frequently asked questions
The holiday season in Fermanagh typically starts in early December and extends through New Year’s. However, visiting closer to Christmas day itself ensures you can partake in the full range of festive activities.
Yes, Fermanagh is known for its festive dishes, such as Christmas pudding, mince pies, and roast turkey with all the trimmings. Don’t forget to try these local delights.
Local pubs and restaurants will serve up mouthwatering fare that will warm your heart during the holiday season.
Family-friendly activities during Christmas include visiting Santa at Enniskillen Castle, enjoying the Christmas markets, and taking nature walks around the scenic landscapes.
While it’s not guaranteed, Fermanagh’s location does offer occasional chances to witness the Northern Lights, especially during the winter months.
Fermanagh is easily accessible by road, with good transport links from major cities in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The nearest airports are Belfast International and Dublin Airport. Plan your journey and experience the magic of the season!
