A Family-Friendly Guide to Enniskillen Before Back-to-School

The last few weeks of summer always seem to pass quicker than expected. Before school bags are packed, uniforms are sorted and routines begin again, August is the perfect time to enjoy one last family break.

If you are looking for a family-friendly getaway in Northern Ireland, Enniskillen is a brilliant choice. Set in the heart of the Fermanagh Lakelands, Ireland’s only island town offers the ideal mix of outdoor adventure, history, lakeside views, local attractions, relaxed dining and easy exploring.

Whether you are planning a short overnight stay, a weekend break or a few days away before the new school year, Enniskillen gives families plenty to see and do without feeling too busy or overwhelming.

At The Westville Hotel, we are ideally located close to Enniskillen town centre, making it easy for families to explore the town, enjoy nearby attractions and return to a comfortable base at the end of the day.

Here is our family-friendly guide to Enniskillen before back-to-school.

Why Enniskillen is Perfect for a Family Break

Family breaks work best when everything feels easy.

Enniskillen is compact, welcoming and full of variety. You can explore the town on foot, enjoy a boat trip on Lough Erne, visit local attractions, take on a scenic walk, browse the shops or enjoy a relaxed meal together without needing to plan every minute of your day.

For parents, Enniskillen offers the convenience of a town-centre stay with access to family-friendly activities nearby. For children, there is plenty of space, scenery and adventure to keep the trip memorable.

It is also a great choice for families who want a break that feels like a proper escape without travelling too far. With lakes, castles, caves, forests and attractions all within reach, Fermanagh is one of Northern Ireland’s best destinations for an end-of-summer family getaway.

Explore Enniskillen Castle

Enniskillen Castle is one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks and a great place to begin your family visit.

Located close to the town centre beside the River Erne, the castle is home to museums and exhibitions that explore Fermanagh’s history, heritage and local stories. It is a good option for families who want something educational but still easy to enjoy.

Children can explore the castle setting, learn a little about the area and experience one of Enniskillen’s most important historic sites. For parents, it is a relaxed attraction that can be easily fitted into a morning or afternoon in town.

Afterwards, you can continue your walk through Enniskillen, stop for lunch or return to The Westville Hotel for a rest before heading out again.

Take a Boat Trip on Lough Erne

A boat trip is one of the best ways for families to experience Enniskillen.

Because the town is surrounded by water, seeing it from Lough Erne gives you a completely different view. A boat tour is relaxed, scenic and suitable for all ages, making it ideal for families who want a memorable activity without too much walking.

Children will enjoy being out on the water, while adults can take in the views, islands, bridges and peaceful scenery of the Fermanagh Lakelands.

It is also a lovely way to slow the pace of your trip. Before the busy school routine starts again, a quiet cruise on Lough Erne is a great reminder to pause and enjoy time together.

Visit Marble Arch Caves

For families looking for something a little different, Marble Arch Caves is one of Fermanagh’s standout attractions.

Located a short drive from Enniskillen, this spectacular cave system offers guided tours through underground chambers, natural rock formations and fascinating passages. It is educational, exciting and a great choice for children who enjoy exploring.

The caves are especially useful if the weather is not on your side. While Fermanagh is beautiful in sunshine, it is always worth having a rainy-day activity ready, and Marble Arch Caves is one of the best family-friendly options nearby.

If you are visiting during a busy period, it is worth checking availability and booking in advance where possible.

Walk the Cuilcagh Boardwalk

For active families with older children, the Cuilcagh Boardwalk is one of the most memorable outdoor experiences in Fermanagh.

Often known as the Stairway to Heaven, the boardwalk leads walkers through dramatic countryside before climbing towards panoramic views. It is one of Northern Ireland’s most photographed walks and a brilliant choice for families who enjoy adventure.

The walk can be challenging, so it may not suit very young children. Comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, water and snacks are recommended. If your family enjoys walking, though, it can be a fantastic end-of-summer achievement before school begins again.

Afterwards, returning to The Westville Hotel for dinner and a comfortable night’s sleep will feel very well earned.

Enjoy Castle Coole and Florence Court

If your family prefers a gentler day out, Fermanagh’s National Trust estates are ideal.

Castle Coole is located close to Enniskillen and offers woodland walks, historic surroundings and plenty of space to enjoy a slower afternoon. It is a great option if you want fresh air without travelling too far from town.

Florence Court is another beautiful estate, set against a scenic countryside backdrop. Families can enjoy the gardens, walking trails and open spaces, making it a peaceful choice for an August day out.

Both estates are perfect for families who want to enjoy nature, heritage and a little space before returning to the comfort of The Westville Hotel.

Browse Enniskillen Town Centre

One of the best things about staying in Enniskillen is how easy the town centre is to explore.

Families can enjoy a relaxed stroll through the streets, browse local shops, stop for coffee, visit The Buttermarket or pick up treats for the journey home. The town has a friendly, walkable feel, which makes it ideal for families who prefer not to spend the whole trip driving between attractions.

Before back-to-school, it is also a good opportunity to enjoy a slower shopping day, pick up a few essentials, or simply make the most of being away from the usual routine.

Make Time for Good Food

No family break is complete without good food.

At The Westville Hotel, families can enjoy dining in a relaxed and welcoming setting, ideal after a day of exploring Enniskillen and the wider Fermanagh Lakelands.

When travelling with children, convenience matters. Being able to return to the hotel for dinner, drinks and a comfortable evening makes the whole break feel easier. There is no need to overcomplicate plans or search too far after a busy day out.

A good meal together is often one of the nicest parts of a family getaway. It gives everyone time to sit down, talk about the day and enjoy the last stretch of summer properly.

A Simple Two-Day Family Itinerary

If you are planning a short family break in Enniskillen before back-to-school, here is an easy itinerary to help you make the most of your time.

Day One: Explore Enniskillen

Arrive in Enniskillen and check in at The Westville Hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the town centre, visiting Enniskillen Castle or enjoying a walk along the water.

Stop for coffee or treats, browse the local shops and take the day at a relaxed pace. In the evening, return to The Westville Hotel for dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.

Day Two: Choose Your Family Adventure

After breakfast, head out to enjoy one of Fermanagh’s best family attractions.

For outdoor adventure, choose Cuilcagh Boardwalk or a lakeside walk. For a rainy-day option, visit Marble Arch Caves. For a slower day, explore Castle Coole or Florence Court. If you want something scenic and easy for all ages, book a boat trip on Lough Erne.

Before heading home, take time for one last walk through Enniskillen or a relaxed lunch in town.

Tips for Planning a Back-to-School Family Break

A little planning can make your family break feel much easier.

Book accommodation in advance, especially during August when families are making the most of the final weeks of summer. Check attraction opening times before you travel, particularly for guided experiences such as Marble Arch Caves or boat trips on Lough Erne.

Pack layers, comfortable shoes and raincoats, as Fermanagh weather can be changeable even in summer. If you are planning outdoor activities, bring snacks, water and a change of clothes for children.

Most importantly, do not try to fit too much into one trip. The best family breaks often come from leaving a little space in the day. Choose one main activity, enjoy it properly, and allow time for food, rest and spontaneous stops along the way.

Why Stay at The Westville Hotel?

The Westville Hotel is a convenient and comfortable base for a family break in Enniskillen.

Our central location means you are close to the town centre, shops, restaurants, attractions and scenic walks, while also being within easy reach of Lough Erne, Marble Arch Caves, Cuilcagh Boardwalk, Castle Coole and Florence Court.

Families can enjoy warm hospitality, comfortable rooms, on-site dining and the ease of staying somewhere that makes exploring Enniskillen simple.

Whether you are visiting for one night, a weekend or a longer break, The Westville Hotel offers the perfect base for making the most of the final days of summer before school begins again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Enniskillen good for a family break?

Yes, Enniskillen is a great choice for a family break. The town is easy to explore, close to Lough Erne and within reach of family-friendly attractions such as Enniskillen Castle, Marble Arch Caves, Cuilcagh Boardwalk, Castle Coole and Florence Court.

What are the best things to do with children in Enniskillen?

Family-friendly things to do in Enniskillen include visiting Enniskillen Castle, taking a boat trip on Lough Erne, exploring the town centre, visiting Marble Arch Caves, walking at Castle Coole or Florence Court, and enjoying nearby outdoor attractions.

Is Enniskillen suitable for a short family staycation?

Yes, Enniskillen is ideal for a short family staycation. There is plenty to do over one or two days, and the town’s central location makes it easy to explore Fermanagh without long travel times between attractions.

Where should families stay in Enniskillen?

The Westville Hotel is a convenient choice for families staying in Enniskillen, offering comfortable accommodation, dining and a central location close to shops, restaurants, walks and local attractions.

What can families do in Enniskillen if it rains?

Rainy-day family options include visiting Marble Arch Caves, exploring Enniskillen Castle, browsing local shops, stopping for lunch or coffee, visiting The Buttermarket, or enjoying a relaxed meal at The Westville Hotel.

Is Cuilcagh Boardwalk suitable for children?

Cuilcagh Boardwalk can be suitable for older children and active families, but it is a challenging walk in parts. Families should wear suitable footwear, dress for the weather and plan ahead before visiting.

Plan Your Family Break in Enniskillen

Before school routines begin again, make time for one last family escape in the Fermanagh Lakelands.

From castles and caves to boat trips, scenic walks, local shops and relaxed dining, Enniskillen is a brilliant destination for families looking to enjoy the final weeks of summer together.

Book your family break at The Westville Hotel and enjoy a comfortable stay in the heart of Enniskillen, close to the best of the town and the wider Fermanagh Lakelands.