Attractions and Places To See around Loughry - Top 5

The region boasts several significant historical sites. You can visit Tullyhogue Fort, an important location where the O'Neills were crowned the Chiefs of Ulster, offering views across County Tyrone. Another notable site is Drum Manor House Ruins, the remains of a 19th-century manor house within a public park. Additionally, the Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery date back to the early 16th century. Further afield, you can find Tullyhogue Fort, Ardboe High Cross, Beaghmore Stone Circles, Wellbrook Beetling Mill, and Killymoon Castle.

Yes, the area offers beautiful natural spaces. Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail takes you through mature deciduous woodland with beech and oak trees, passing ponds and gardens. The wider Drum Manor Forest Park features winding forest tracks and the ruins of a manor house. You can also explore Davagh Forest, known for its towering pine and spruce, or enjoy the serene Lough Fea, a freshwater lake in the Sperrins Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which has a popular circular walkway.

For families, Drum Manor House Ruins is part of a public park that includes a play park, hiking trails, and gardens. Tullyhogue Fort is also considered family-friendly, offering historical interest and open spaces. Drum Manor Forest Park provides ample space for children to explore nature.

Yes, there are various trails. Drum Manor Forest Park offers an easy 5.4 km loop. Other easy options include a 4.6 km loop from Drum Manor Forest Park and a 2.1 km loop also from Drum Manor Forest Park. For a moderate challenge, there's a 10.9 km hiking loop from Cookstown. Lough Fea also has a popular 4.15 km circular walkway.

Absolutely. For running, you can find a moderate 5.1 km loop in Drum Manor Forest Park, or longer moderate loops around Roughan Lough. Cyclists can explore various road cycling routes, including a moderate 44.4 km loop to Mountjoy Castle from Cookstown or a moderate 50.5 km loop to Lough Neagh.

Yes, Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail is noted as dog-friendly, offering a pleasant environment for walks with your canine companion through mature deciduous woodland.

The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region. However, autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, especially in places like Drum Manor Forest Park and Davagh Forest.

Northern Ireland weather can be unpredictable. It's advisable to dress in layers, even in summer, and always carry waterproof outerwear. Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes are essential for trails and historical sites. In autumn and winter, warm clothing, hats, and gloves are recommended.

Tullyhogue Fort offers excellent views across the County Tyrone countryside. Davagh Forest also provides various vantage points for scenic views, and the circular walkway around Lough Fea offers panoramic views of the water and the surrounding Sperrin Mountains.

Beyond historical landmarks, you can visit the Ardboe High Cross near Lough Neagh, a 6th-century site with intricate carvings. Wellbrook Beetling Mill, a National Trust property, provides insight into industrial heritage, while Lissan House and Springhill House offer glimpses into historic estates and their collections.

Many of the larger attractions, such as Drum Manor Forest Park, typically offer parking facilities. For instance, Drum Manor House Ruins is located within a park that has a large parking lot with restrooms. It's always a good idea to check specific attraction websites for detailed parking information.

Yes, areas like Drum Manor Forest Park and Davagh Forest, with their mature woodlands and diverse habitats, offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. Lough Fea is also a good spot for nature enthusiasts, particularly for birdwatching.