A historic estate on the banks of Lough Erne in County Fermanagh with a 17th-century castle has been sold.

The Belle Isle Estate has been sold to the Crawford family of Lisbellaw.

The estate includes a Grade B+ listed castle, 17 cottages and apartments, and manicured gardens.

The estate is set within 448 acres of land.

The estate has a rich history dating back to the 15th century and has been home to some of Ireland's notable figures, including the MacManus clan, who penned the Annals of Ulster, and Elizabethan soldier Paul Gore.

The property has since been expanded and meticulously maintained, with each successive owner adding to its grandeur and legacy.

In 2004, Belle Isle School of Cookery was established, becoming Northern Ireland's first dedicated culinary school.

In 2017, a further programme of castle refurbishment was overseen by Lord Nicholas Hamilton, whose leadership helped the estate achieve the accolade of Small Wedding Venue of the Year 2024 at the All-Ireland Hotel Awards.

James Butler, director of Savills Country Agency, said: "With such a diverse range of assets in a renowned setting, Belle Isle Estate represents an extraordinary opportunity for its new owners.

"While we conducted viewings with parties based in the USA, Asia, Europe, and the UK, the sale provides a locally based family, as new custodians, with the chance to further enrich the estate’s historic legacy."

Neal Morrison, director of Savills Northern Ireland, said: "It is rare to find a property that combines such heritage, scale, and natural beauty.

"The Belle Isle Estate is an irreplaceable asset that will allow the Crawford family to preserve a piece of Northern Ireland’s history while contributing to its future."

The estate’s additional offerings include more than six miles of private waterfront along Lough Erne and four exclusive islands.