Attractions and Places To See in Cookstown - Top 12
Best attractions and places to see in Cookstown, located in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, include a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences. The region features ancient megalithic structures and significant historical forts. Visitors can explore expansive forest parks and large freshwater lakes.
Best attractions and places to see in Cookstown
- The most popular attractions is Drum Manor House Ruins, a historical_site that represents the remains of a 19th-century manor. The site is now part of a public park featuring hiking trails, gardens, and a play area.
- Another must-see spot is Beaghmore Stone Circles, a complex of early Bronze Age megalithic features. Visitors can observe seven low stone circles, twelve cairns, and ten stone rows, dating back to 2900 - 2600 BC.
- Visitors also love Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in Ireland and the UK. This lake offers opportunities for outdoor activities and is known for its eels.
- Cookstown is known for its historical sites, natural landscapes, and forest parks. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient monuments to serene lakes and woodland trails.
- The attractions in Cookstown are appreciated by the komoot community. With 8 upvotes and 9 photos, these spots offer diverse experiences.
Last updated: April 22, 2026
Drum Manor House Ruins
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Beaghmore Stone Circles
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There are seven low stone circles of different sizes, six of which are paired, twelve cairns and ten stone rows. The circles are between 10 and 20m in diameter, and are associated with earlier burial cairns and alignments of stone rows lead towards them. The stones are small with few more than 0.5m in height and the circles are distorted, suggesting they are related to kerbs surrounding some megalithic tombs.
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Lough Neagh
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Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail
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Lough Fea
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The scenery is mountainous and panoramic, and the calm waters bring many anglers and are home to a number of fascinating bird species, often seen flitting along the lake.
The walk is lovely and flat and features a children's play area, toilets, and plenty of rain shelters in case of unpredictable weather.
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Ardboe High Cross
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Davagh Forest Trail
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The Battery Marina
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Tullaghoge Fort
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Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery
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Other adventures in Cookstown
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An enjoyable 4km walking track leads you around the serene Lough Fea in the eastern Sperrins in Northern Ireland. The scenery is mountainous and panoramic, and the calm waters bring many anglers and are home to a number of fascinating bird species, often seen flitting along the lake. The walk is lovely and flat and features a children's play area, toilets, and plenty of rain shelters in case of unpredictable weather.
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Beaghmore (Bheitheach MhΓ³r), meaning βbig place of birch treesβ. The stones speak of ancient rituals and to a people who understood astronomy. When you visit this ancient site look up in wonder at the sky and reflect, that the people that built these monuments observed the same sky, sun, moon and stars.
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The church ruins date from the early 16th century but include stones from a much earlier pre 11th century church. After a new church was built, this one fell into disrepair, but the graveyard remains in use.
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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.
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Near the banks of Lough Neagh stands Ardboe High Cross. Take a close look at the carvings on the cross which represent both the Old and New Testament. A monastery was founded here in the 6th century by St Colman and legend has it that it was created by the milk of a magic cow. Ardboe means hill of the cow, so who knows!
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A little waterside detour will take you to visit The Battery, a marina on Lough Neagh. You can grab at drink at the Battery Bar or take a seat on one of the many picnic benches and breathe in the peace and calm.
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There are 7 stone circles, 12 cairns and 10 rows of stones here at Beaghamore. In total 1269 stones were discovered under the peat during the 1930s. The site dates back to 2900 - 2600 BC.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in the Cookstown area?
Cookstown is rich in history. You can visit the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles, a complex of Bronze Age megalithic features on the edge of the Sperrin Mountains. Another significant site is Tullyhogue Fort, an ancient ceremonial site with panoramic views. Don't miss the remains of Drum Manor House Ruins within Drum Manor Forest Park, or the historic Ardboe High Cross. Other notable sites include Killymoon Castle, Wellbrook Beetling Mill, and Lissan House.
Are there opportunities for outdoor activities and nature exploration near Cookstown?
Absolutely. You can explore Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail, offering beautiful deciduous woodlands, ponds, and gardens. Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in Ireland, provides opportunities for outdoor activities, and nearby The Battery Marina offers waterside detours. Lough Fea also features a pleasant 4km walking track. Davagh Forest is another excellent spot for trails and stargazing.
What are some family-friendly attractions in Cookstown?
Many attractions in Cookstown are suitable for families. Drum Manor House Ruins is part of a public park with a play area, hiking trails, and gardens. Beaghmore Stone Circles offers a fascinating historical experience for all ages. Both Lough Neagh and Lough Fea are great for walks and picnics, with Lough Fea specifically having a children's play area. Davagh Forest also features family-friendly trails.
Where can I find good walking or hiking trails in the Cookstown area?
Cookstown offers several excellent walking and hiking opportunities. You can enjoy the serene Lough Fea Walk, a lovely flat 4km track. Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail provides winding forest tracks through mature woodlands. For more options, explore the various routes in the area, including the Davagh Forest trails. You can find detailed hiking routes in the Hiking in Cookstown guide.
Are there cycling or mountain biking trails available near Cookstown attractions?
Yes, the Cookstown area is popular for cycling and mountain biking. Davagh Forest is particularly known for its trails, including the Davagh Forest Trail. You can find a variety of routes for different skill levels, from easy loops to more challenging mountain bike trails. For comprehensive information on cycling routes, refer to the Cycling in Cookstown guide and the MTB Trails in Cookstown guide.
What cultural experiences can I find in Cookstown?
Cookstown has a vibrant cultural scene. The Burnavon Arts and Cultural Centre is a hub for performances, exhibitions, and workshops. You can also explore the Kinturk Cultural Centre and learn about the town's textile history at the Cookstown Linen Centre. The town also hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Cookstown 100 motorcycle race and the Cookstown Agricultural Show.
What is Cookstown Main Street known for?
Cookstown Main Street is famous for being one of the longest and widest main streets in Ireland, stretching 1.5 miles. It's characterized by its historic Victorian-era buildings and offers a variety of local shops, making it a pleasant area for a stroll and to experience the town's local charm.
Can I visit any castles or grand houses in the Cookstown region?
While the Drum Manor House Ruins offer a glimpse into a past estate, the region also features Killymoon Castle, a 17th-century castle designed by John Nash, known for its Gothic and neoclassical styles. Additionally, Lissan House, believed to be the oldest house in Mid Ulster, showcases nearly 400 years of history. Springhill House, a 17th-century plantation house with gardens, is also nearby.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth visiting in Cookstown?
Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring the Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery, which dates back to the early 16th century and incorporates stones from an even older pre-11th-century church. Davagh Forest, while known for trails, is also recognized for its celestial connections, making it a great spot for stargazing away from light pollution.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Cookstown?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The ancient sites like Beaghmore Stone Circles offer a profound connection to prehistoric times, while the expansive forest parks and lakes like Lough Neagh provide serene environments for relaxation and outdoor activities. The family-friendly nature of many sites, including play areas and easy trails, is also highly valued.
Is there a good place for fishing near Cookstown?
Yes, the Ballinderry River, which flows near Cookstown, is known for fishing. Additionally, Lough Neagh is famous for its eels and offers opportunities for angling. Lough Fea also attracts anglers to its calm waters.
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