Overview
Set against the rolling limestone hills of the Fermanagh Lakelands, the Reyfad Stones are a compact stone row of six upright boulders located just outside the village of Boho. Five of the monoliths are heavily decorated with curvilinear cup-and-ring carvings that date from the Neolithic to the Iron Age, spanning roughly 5,000 years. Designated as a scheduled monument (SM 210:13) by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, the site is freely accessible to the public and remains one of the finest examples of prehistoric rock art in the region.
Unlike many managed heritage sites, the Reyfad Stones sit quietly in an open pasture, offering a peaceful, uncommercialised experience. The surrounding plateau is characterised by rugged karst geology, sinkholes, and an extensive underground cave system, creating a landscape that has fascinated locals and archaeologists for generations.
History & Origins
The name Reyfad comes from the Irish Ráth Fada, meaning “long fort,” a reference to the ancient, fort-like appearance of the stone alignment. The carvings belong to a widespread tradition of cup-and-ring marked rock art found across the island of Ireland. Similar motifs appear at the world-famous passage tombs in the Boyne Valley, which are dated to circa 3200 BC. While the exact age of the Reyfad carvings is difficult to pinpoint, their weathered depth and overlapping patterns suggest they were created over an extended period, possibly serving ritual, territorial, or astronomical purposes.
The stones are carved directly into the local Dartry Limestone, a rock type that was relatively soft when first exposed but has hardened over millennia. This geological feature allowed prehistoric artisans to create remarkably deep and precise petroglyphs that have survived centuries of Atlantic weathering. The site sits within a broader archaeological landscape in County Fermanagh that includes court tombs, stone circles, and early medieval high crosses, reflecting continuous human activity in the area for thousands of years.
What to See
The site consists of six natural limestone boulders arranged in a loose row. Five of these stones display dense concentrations of concentric rings, spirals, and cup-marks. The largest monolith dominates the cluster, measuring over 3 metres in length and standing approximately 2 metres high. Its surface is almost entirely covered in overlapping designs, making it a focal point for visitors.
When visiting, take time to walk slowly around the cluster. The carvings are most visible when the light hits them at an angle, so early morning or late afternoon visits are recommended. Photographers will find that the sun moves behind the stones after mid-day, casting deep shadows that can obscure the finer details. The surrounding pasture is relatively open, providing clear sightlines for framing the stones against the sky and the distant hills.
Getting There & Practical Tips
The Reyfad Stones are easy to miss without clear directions, as there is no official signage marking the approach. Follow this route:
- From Enniskillen, take the A4 west toward Belcoo.
- Turn right for Boho and continue for approximately 5 km.
- Follow signs for the Boho churches, then turn left at the second church (Sacred Heart Church).
- Proceed up a narrow, unmade track for about 500 metres. The stone outcrop sits in the field directly in front of a bungalow on your left.
A small free lay-by beside the track can accommodate two or three vehicles. The field is unfenced in places and the ground is uneven, so sturdy waterproof footwear is essential. The site is open year-round with no formal opening hours or admission fee. There are no on-site facilities; visitors should plan ahead for refreshments and toilets in Boho village.
Dogs are welcome on the open countryside but should be kept on a short lead. The field is actively used for grazing, and livestock can be unpredictable, so keep a safe distance and stay alert. The terrain is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
The Reyfad Stones sit within a landscape rich in archaeological and natural heritage. The high plateau is home to some of Ireland’s most significant karst features, including Reyfad Pot, the deepest cave system in Ireland at 193 metres, and Little Reyfad, a striking sinkhole formed from Dartry Limestone and chert. Please note that access to the cave systems is strictly by landowner permission and should only be attempted by experienced cavers with the proper equipment.
For those looking to extend their visit, the nearby Aghanaglack Dual Court Tomb offers another excellent example of Neolithic burial architecture, while the Ballintempo Forest provides well-marked walking trails through ancient woodland and heathland. The historic Boho High Cross, dating to the 10th century, stands in the village graveyard and features intricate biblical carvings on its sandstone shaft.
Visitors planning to explore the wider region should also consider the Cuilcagh Boardwalk Trail, a 4 km loop that traverses the upland plateau and offers sweeping views over Lough Erne. The trail is well-marked, suitable for most fitness levels, and complements a visit to the stones perfectly.
The Reyfad Stones reward careful observation and a willingness to wander off the main roads. Arrive early, bring a camera to capture the interplay of light on ancient stone, and take a moment to listen to the quiet of the Fermanagh hills. The site remains a direct, unmediated connection to the people who first shaped this landscape millennia ago.