Best attractions and places to see around Lurganboy, a village in County Leitrim, Ireland, offers natural landscapes and walking trails. The area is characterized by woodlands and views of surrounding mountains and valleys. Lurganboy also features a historical church and a battle site. There are 6 attractions and places to see waiting to be explored.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Trail
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Lurganboy.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
In the shadow of Northern Ireland's vast skies, the mysterious Mountjoy Castle rises on a hill above Lough Neagh. This ruined castle, whose Irish name "Caisleán Mhuinseo" whispers into the wind, stands like a proud sentinel in the village of Mountjoy, County Tyrone. The castle was built in 1602 by order of Charles Blount, 1st Earl of Devonshire and 8th Baron Mountjoy. But times have not always been kind to this building: as early as 1643, a devastating fire left scars on the walls of the castle. What remained is a two-story brick building with the ground floor clad in stone. The architecture speaks of a time of defense and vigilance - a central rectangular block protected by four spear-shaped towers, crisscrossed by embrasures. The north-western tower testifies to the fragility of time - partially collapsed, while the western curtain wall has lost its presence. The entrance, once on the south side of the eastern curtain wall, seems to whisper stories of days gone by, while wide windows on the upper floor capture the eyes of visitors. Unfortunately, an extension at the back keeps some of the castle's secrets hidden, and the interior area is closed to visitors' eyes. But even in its ruined state, Mountjoy Castle embodies the soul and history of Northern Ireland. Not only is it a State Care Historic Monument in the townland of Magheralamfield in the Mid Ulster District, but it is also a silent testament to time, inviting every walker to pause for a moment and listen to the whispers of history.
2
0
An important historic site, Tullyhogue Fort is where the O'Neills were crowned the Chiefs of Ulster. It is now planted with trees and you can enjoy views across the countryside of County Tyrone.
0
0
Here stands the remains of the once magnificent Drum Manor house. The house was built in the 1800s and was bought from the Forest Service in 1964 when it was turned into a park for the public. The park now features a campsite, hiking trails, gardens and a play park.
2
0
Drum Manor Forest Park is made up of beautiful mature deciduous woodland feauturing beech and oak. Winding forest tracks will take you on a lovely route through the area passing ponds, gardens, and a derelict manor house.
1
0
National Trust owned water powered mill, originally used in the manufacture of Linen. Well worth stopping off for a look around.
2
0
Outdoor activities include a campsite, hiking trails, gardens and a play park. There is also a large parking lot with restrooms.
1
0
This a National Trust property that I believe has limited opening hours. It is well worth a visit and taking the free guided tour which gives lots of info about the place the mill had in the linen manufacturing industry (beetling being part of the finishing of the linen cloth). As part of the tour the water powered mill machinery will be stated up and you see the linen cloth being processed as it would when the mill was open.
1
0
Small castle ruins. Unfortunately not accessible inside and "reared" from behind.
6
0
Lurganboy is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. You can enjoy the serene Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail, known for its mature deciduous woodland, ponds, and gardens. The wider area also features the picturesque Lurganboy Forest Walks, including Cranny Wood and Milltown Wood, where you can find the tranquil Milltown Wood Waterfall and observe diverse wildlife. Shanvaus Hill offers stunning views of Benbo Mountain and the Glencar Glacial Valley.
Yes, the area around Lurganboy is rich in history. You can visit the remains of the 1800s Drum Manor House Ruins, which are part of a public park. Another significant site is Mountjoy Castle, a ruined 17th-century structure standing on a hill above Lough Neagh. Additionally, Tullyhogue Fort is an important historic site where the O'Neills were crowned, offering views across County Tyrone. You can also explore the Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery, with parts dating back to before the 11th century.
Absolutely! Drum Manor House Ruins is located within a public park that features a play park, hiking trails, and gardens, making it ideal for families. Tullyhogue Fort is also considered family-friendly, offering an open space to explore history and enjoy countryside views. The easy walking trails within Drum Manor Forest Park are also suitable for families.
Lurganboy offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy loops to more challenging routes. For example, the Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail provides winding forest tracks through mature woodland. You can find several hiking routes around the area, including easy loops like the Drum Manor Forest Park loop (5.4 km) and other trails starting from Drum Manor Forest Park. For more options, explore the Hiking around Lurganboy guide.
For breathtaking views, head to Shanvaus Hill, which offers stunning panoramas of Benbo Mountain and the Glencar Glacial Valley. The Glencar Glacial Valley itself is known for its striking beauty and can be admired from various vantage points along the Lurganboy Forest Walks. Tullyhogue Fort also provides pleasant views across the County Tyrone countryside.
Yes, there are several cycling routes in the vicinity. You can find road cycling routes such as the Mountjoy Castle loop from Cookstown (44.3 km) or the Lough Neagh – View of Lough Neagh loop (50.5 km). For touring bicycles, options include the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop (28.1 km) or the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort (20.8 km). Discover more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Lurganboy and Cycling around Lurganboy guides.
The natural areas, particularly the Lurganboy Forest Walks and Milltown Wood, are home to diverse wildlife. Keep an eye out for birds such as jays, dippers, and buzzards. Various bat species also inhabit the woodlands. The River Bonet, flowing through Milltown Wood, adds to the scenic beauty and supports local aquatic life.
Yes, for attractions like Drum Manor House Ruins and Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail, there is a large parking lot available, often with restrooms for visitor convenience.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The tranquil atmosphere of places like Milltown Wood Waterfall, the scenic views from Shanvaus Hill, and the opportunity to explore ancient ruins like Mountjoy Castle are frequently highlighted. The well-maintained trails and family-friendly amenities at places like Drum Manor Forest Park also receive positive feedback.
Yes, the region boasts interesting geological characteristics. Benbo Mountain, a significant natural landmark, has higher portions composed of granite flanked by micaceous quartz, with hornblende rock at its base. The Glencar Glacial Valley is also a notable geological formation, showcasing the impact of past glacial activity on the landscape.
Many outdoor areas around Lurganboy are dog-friendly. For instance, the Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail is explicitly noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful woodland walks with your canine companion. Always ensure dogs are kept under control and follow local guidelines.
The area's scenic beauty, with its lush woodlands and rolling hills, can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for hiking and cycling, with vibrant greenery. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, making it another picturesque time to visit. Even in milder winter months, the trails can be explored, though some paths might be wet.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: