Turbet Island: A Historical Sanctuary

Turbet Island, situated on the northwest side of Belturbet, County Cavan, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The island, nestled beside the Kilconny Bridge on the River Erne, is easily accessible and offers a tranquil retreat for visitors. The name Belturbet itself is derived from Gaelic words meaning 'the mouth of the peninsula,' highlighting the island's geographical importance. Historically, Turbet Island was one of the first major settlements in the Belturbet area. It features a motte, a steep-sided mound of earth with a flat top, and a bailey, an enclosed area that once housed buildings. These structures were part of an Anglo-Norman motte and bailey fort built in the early 13th century by Walter de Lacy. The fort was one of seven fortifications strategically placed to control access to Ulster. Although the original wooden fort did not survive, the earthworks remain visible. Abandoned by the Anglo-Normans around 1233, Turbet Island was later taken over by the O'Reillys, who are believed to have constructed a stone castle on the site. Today, visitors can explore the island via a footbridge located near the main bridge over the River Erne. The island boasts a fully accessible walking trail that meanders along the river, passing the remnants of the Motte and Bailey and the Railway Bridge. Turbet Island is also known for an extraordinary discovery: the first remnants of a prehistoric Woolly Mammoth found in Europe were unearthed here. These remains are now housed in the Natural History Museum in Dublin. The island is a haven for wildlife, including various bird species, and the River Erne is home to protected species such as the Whooper Swan and the Greenland White-Fronted Goose. Designated as an official site of the Marble Arch Geopark, Turbet Island is considered historically, socially, and economically significant to the region. It offers a peaceful environment for walks and picnics, with trails suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Trail maps and tourist information are available at the Railway Station in Belturbet.