Fermanagh & Tyrone
Photos: Shoreline of Lough Erne, Co. Fermanagh; Belleek Pottery, Belleek, Co. Fermanagh (photo by Jerry Weyant); Belleek potter at work (photo courtesy of Belleek Collectors International Society).
Counties Fermanagh and Tyrone are two of Northern Ireland's hidden treasures, a little off the beaten track. Instead of boasting impressive coastlines, these two counties are known for their inland Loughs. County Tyrone hugs the western shores of Lough Neagh and County Fermanagh is bi-sected by Lough Erne.
In addition, both counties are known for a variety of local industries that have become world famous such as Belleek Pottery in County Fermanagh. County Tyrone is also the home of one of the North's prime man-made attractions, the Ulster-American Folk Park at Omagh.
Here are some of the highlights of both counties:
Belleek Pottery, Main St., Belleek, Co. Fermanagh (tel. 028-6865-9300), was established in 1857, and has since become identified throughout the world as a symbol of ultimate Irish craftsmanship. Tours, which are conducted every half-hour on weekdays only, show visitors how the delicate "basket weave" creamy white porcelain china is manufactured, from selecting the raw materials, to grinding and mixing, pouring, drying, decorating, and firing. In addition to the behind-the-scenes tour, there is an audio-visual presentation and a museum that illustrates the history of Belleek, and displays some of the oldest and rarest pieces. Open daily March-October, and weekdays only during November-February. Web site: www.belleek.ie
Enniskillen Castle, Castle Barracks, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh (028-6632-5000), is an impressive local landmark. Overlooking Lough Erne on the western edge of town, this mighty stone fortress has had a long and colorful history. Originally built in the 15th-century by the Maguire chieftains, and later passed to Sir William Cole who added a distinctive "watergate" feature to the outer walls. In the 18th-century, the castle became an artillery barracks and was the onetime home of the "Royal Iniskilling Fusiliers" and the "Fifth Dragoon Guards." Open daily in July-August; weekdays only during rest of year. Web site:www.enniskillencastle.co.uk
Marble Arch Caves, Marlbank, Co. Fermanagh (tel. 028-6634-8855), is recognized among the best cave systems in Europe. Access is via underground boat tours that allow visitors to explore a natural underworld of stalactites, stalagmites, rivers, waterfalls, winding passages, and lofty chambers. Tours also include geology exhibitions and an audio-visual. Open daily mid-March-Sept. (weather permitting). Web site: www.marblearchcaves.net
Ulster-American Folk Park, Mellon Rd., Castletown, Camphill, Omagh, Co. Tyrone (tel. 028-8224-3293), is the North of Ireland's most highly acclaimed outdoor museum. It presents the story of emigration from this part of rural Ireland to America in the 18th and 19th centuries. You'll see thatched cottages that the emigrants left behind and prototypes of the log cabins that became their homes in America. Walk through a forge, barn, smokehouse, post office, craft workshops, and typical Ulster and American streets of the time. Allow at least two hours to do a complete tour. Open daily from Easter through September; weekdays only during the rest of the year. Web site: www.folkpark.com.
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