Belturbet on the River Erne: Island Trails and Railway History

Belturbet combines the river landscape of the River Erne with local history that is easy to explore. On Turbet Island, a short, marked trail crosses the river; the historic railway station houses an exhibition about the railway era in Cavan. There is also a heritage trail through Belturbet, along with opportunities for boating, cruises and trout fishing. This lets you choose whether to focus your stay on culture, walks or time by the water.

Waterways and Nature on the Erne

Belturbet lies on the River Erne. The Lough Oughter and Associated Loughs complex, which is connected with the town, stretches between Belturbet, Killeshandra and Cavan Town across much of the lowland drumlin belt in northern and central County Cavan. Rather than a single body of water, this landscape is shaped by a network of waterways, islands, small lakes and peninsulas. The system is designated as an SAC, SPA and NHA.

Wildlife is also part of this landscape: protected species such as the mute swan and Greenland white-fronted goose live on the River Erne. Belturbet is also at the heart of the UNESCO Global Geopark in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Visitors interested in waterways, islands and nature will find a different way to experience the area than through its built heritage and railway history.

Local History on the Island and at the Station

Turbet Island in Belturbet is an Anglo-Norman motte-and-bailey site. An informative trail introduces visitors to Belturbet’s built, natural and cultural heritage. The short, marked walking trail across the River Erne is 1.6 km long. Turbet Island is easily reached by car or on foot; all paths on the island are fully wheelchair accessible.

Belturbet railway station was built in 1885 and has been fully restored. Today it houses an exhibition on the history of the railway era in Cavan. The Belturbet Heritage Railway Museum offers guided, self-guided and virtual tours, and hosts a wide range of cultural events. This offers another way to explore the town’s history through its railways, as well as through the traces on Turbet Island.

Another place to visit is the Town Hall: this distinctive building houses Belturbet Library as well as a civic and arts event space. The Belturbet Heritage Trail starts at the Diamond in the town centre, opposite the historic Town Hall. This easy walk takes about 50 minutes; its stops and features include Kilconny Quay.

Tailor Your Stay to Your Interests

You can go boating or take a cruise on the River Erne. The river is navigable downstream from Belturbet to Upper Lough Erne and beyond. For anglers, a stretch of river from above the town bridge at Kilconny to the railway viaduct is of particular interest: the local Trout Angling Club has developed it for trout fishing. A good variety of fly hatches makes both wet and dry patterns suitable there.

When choosing a holiday rental in Belturbet, you could first consider what kind of holiday appeals to you: the Anglo-Norman site and railway history, a short trail with information about local heritage, or activities on the River Erne. Tourism information is available at the Town Hall and at information kiosks around the town. You can then plan your visit around the subjects that interest you most.

Discover More Places

Other places to discover include: Cootehill, Dowra, Lavagh, Cavan, Ballyhugh, Ballyconnell, Loch Gowna and Kingscourt.

For the broader travel overview: County Cavan.