Overview
Clones sits in the rolling drumlin countryside of north-eastern Ireland, just a short drive from the Republic–Northern Ireland border. With a population of around 1,700, the town centres on the Diamond, where the remains of an early medieval abbey, a 10th-century round tower and a 9th-century high cross dominate the streetscape. Beyond the historic core, you’ll find independent cafés, boutique shops, a thriving sports scene and a network of flat walking and cycling routes that follow the revived Ulster Canal.
History & Heritage
The settlement was founded in the 6th century by St Tighernach (also known as St Tiernach), a bishop who, according to local tradition, was baptised by St Brigid at Kildare. The early monastic community grew around a stone church, and by the early 10th century, a four-storey sandstone round tower had been erected. Originally standing almost 23 metres tall and capped with a conical roof, the tower functioned as both a bell house and a defensive refuge during Viking raids, including a recorded attack on the town in 836 AD. Fires in 1095 and 1184 damaged the precinct, but the community rebuilt each time.
In the 12th century, the monastery was re-established as the Augustinian Abbey of Saints Peter and Paul. The adjoining church, dating from around 1150, and the high cross – assembled from fragments of two 9th-century crosses depicting biblical scenes – were added to the grounds. Following the suppression of monasteries under Henry VIII, the complex fell into disrepair, yet the round tower survived and remains the town’s most recognisable landmark.
The Ulster Canal, completed in the early 19th century to link Lough Erne and Lough Neagh, fell into disuse by 1931. Decades of restoration work have now transformed the waterway into a scenic corridor for walkers and cyclists, reconnecting the town’s heritage sites with future boating routes.
What to See & Do
Clones packs a surprising amount into a compact, walkable area. Most of the historic attractions are free to access and open year-round.
- Clones Round Tower & High Cross – Walk around the cylindrical stone shaft and note the square-headed doorway set 1.5 metres above ground, along with the lone east-facing window. The adjacent high cross features well-preserved panels showing Daniel in the lions’ den, the sacrifice of Isaac, and the multiplication of loaves.
- St Tighearnach’s Church of Ireland – A Gothic-Revival building with fine stained glass and a historic churchyard. Free entry.
- Clones Lace Gallery & Museum – Watch live lace-making demonstrations and browse displays of historic and contemporary pieces. The town has long been a centre for this delicate craft. Free entry.
- St Tiernach’s Park – A 32,000-seat GAA stadium that hosts Ulster football championships. Free on match days.
- Peacelink Sports Complex – Features an indoor pool, fitness centre and outdoor pitches. Monthly memberships available.
- Clones Golf Club – An 18-hole woodland course with a traditional clubhouse. Green fees start at €25 per round.
Walking the Canal & Town
The restored section of the Ulster Canal offers a flat, traffic-free trail that runs alongside the water from the Diamond out towards the town’s western edge. The path is fully accessible for families with strollers, dog walkers and cyclists. Clear signage links the canal towpath to the town’s historic sites and connects to the wider Monaghan Way, allowing you to extend your walk into the surrounding drumlin countryside or link up with longer regional routes.
Events & Festivals
Clones maintains a strong cultural calendar that draws visitors from across the border:
- Fleadh Cheoil (late June) – A week-long celebration of traditional Irish music featuring local sessions, graded competitions, workshops and céilí dancing.
- Canal Festival (mid-August) – Centred on the restored waterway, with boat races, craft stalls, live music and food vendors lining the towpath.
- Clones Film Festival (October) – Screens a curated programme of Irish and international independent films, often followed by Q&A sessions with filmmakers and industry guests.
Practical Information
Getting there
Clones is easily reached by road via the N54 and N2 routes. The nearest railway stations are in Monaghan (approximately 15 km) and Enniskillen (approximately 30 km). Regular Bus Éireann services connect the town to Dublin, Belfast and surrounding villages.
Parking & Facilities
Free public parking is available on the outskirts of the Diamond, with a pay-and-display car park located near the Ulster Canal walk. Public toilets are situated at the Diamond and close to the canal trail. A local information point provides maps, trail guides and up-to-date event listings.
Opening times & admission
The round tower, high cross and surrounding churchyard are open 24/7, free of charge. The Lace Gallery typically operates Monday to Saturday, 10:00–17:00, and is closed on Sundays. Check local listings for seasonal variations or special exhibition hours.
Nearby Attractions
- Clones historic religious sites – Detailed guide to the abbey ruins and surrounding ecclesiastical monuments.
- Dartrey Estate – Forest walks, a historic house and medieval church ruins.
- Carrickmacross Lace Gallery – Another centre of Irish lace heritage, a short drive north.
- Glaslough Village – Heritage trail and restored railway station.
- Lough Muckno Leisure Park – Lakeside recreation, fishing and water sports.
Clones works well as a base for exploring County Monaghan or as a focused day trip. If you plan to visit during the Fleadh Cheoil, book accommodation early, as the town fills quickly with musicians and visitors from across the island.