Winter in the UK is almost magical, think frosted landscapes, twinkling fairy lights and brisk walks through stunning scenery. While larger towns and cities bustle with shoppers and tourists, smaller places offer a quiet, serene escape, perfect for a winter wander.

With picturesque views, characterful charm and so much history, Enniskillen in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, makes for the perfect place to visit. Built on an island between Upper and Lower Lough Erne, Enniskillen is the county’s largest and most vibrant settlement, where pretty townhouses rub shoulders with traditional pubs and lively cafes. According to BBC Countryfile, it’s one of the most “magical towns to visit this winter”.

One TripAdvisor user, who goes by Tony S, claimed that this town is “a great place to visit and often overlooked”. He pointed out that Enniskillen Castle and Castle Coole are “worth a few hours of your time”.

One of the most remarkable aspects of Enniskillen is its rich and deep-rooted history. Visitors can take a stroll up to Enniskillen Castle, which was originally constructed in the 15th century and has been significant to the town ever since.

The castle features two museums: the Fermanagh County Museum, which explores the county’s traditional rural lifestyle and local crafts, and the Inniskillings Museum, which focuses on the area’s military history, showcasing memorabilia dating back to the 17th century.

Alternatively, you can go on a leisurely 5km bike ride to Castle Coole, located on the outskirts of town. The castle-to-castle path offers a picturesque view of Enniskillen’s landscape, and Castle Coole is sure to impress.

TripAdvisor user Kesh_grammy raved about the “stunning views” you can experience from Castle Coole and the surrounding area.

This 18th-century neo-classical mansion was once the residence of the Earls of Belmore, and a guided tour reveals the luxuriousness of the family’s living spaces alongside the simple practicality of the servants’ quarters.

Enjoy a cup of tea at the quaint cafe, explore the second-hand bookshop hidden in what used to be the stables, stroll through the magnificent parkland, and then head back towards Enniskillen on your bike.

In the town, there’s so much to explore. For instance, The Buttermarket features a variety of 16 studios, galleries, shops, and cafes right in the centre of Enniskillen.

You can also go beyond Enniskillen as County Fermanagh is renowned for its natural beauty, particularly its lakes – Lough Erne is the perfect place for this.