About Tyrone

County Tyrone has something for everyone to explore, from its rich heritage to its woodland setting. For a great selection of places to see and have fun, its series of picturesque towns and villages make ideal touring bases. One of the least explored counties of Northern Ireland, its uncrowded rural roads allow for some excellent sightseeing off the beaten tourist track.

Moving south brings us to one of Tyrone’s largest commercial centres, Omagh, sitting in the Clogher Valley 33 miles (53km) south of Derry and only 14 miles from Castlederg. This county town of Tyrone is an excellent stop-off point for any tour with the Sperrin mountain range just a few miles north. The mountains are full of forested glens and walking trails, ideal for picnics and walking, for the enthusiasts among you. The Noble Prize winning poet, Seamus Heaney grew up on the edge of the Sperrins and in his work, still drawing inspiration from their effects on his life. The Sperrin Heritage Centre stands at the base of the highest point, Mount Sawel (2,200ft.). Why not try panning for gold in the streams nearby? Small amounts have already been found! Infact, the Irish world champion boxer of the 1980’s Barry McGuigan had his first medal made from it. Close by, the forest park at Gortin Glen is worth a visit – fascinating for nature lovers.

Omagh’s main attractions are the Ulster American Folk Park, 11 miles due east of Castlederg and the Ulster History Park, 17 miles north of Omagh. Dedicated to Irish emigrants in America during the 18th and 19th Centuries the Ulster American Folk Park houses many life size exhibits to make this an altogether believable tour. Included are Pennsylvanian farmhouses, a New York tenement, immigrant transport ships and full scale replicas of Irish cottages. It has been said that the 4th of July festivities at the Ulster American Folk Park are almost as good as being in the States!

The Ulster History Park is another open air museum dominated by full scale models tracing Irish history from the first known Settlers to the 12th Century arrival of the Norman’s. Replicas include Crannogs and Dolmen, a plantation settlement and a monastery.

Moving East from Castlederg we approach Dungannon, home to Tyrone Crystal factory where visitors are welcome to see the blowing and cutting stages of fine glass manufacture. Close by is the fascinating forest park at Parkanur where you can spot deer grazing or take in one of the many walking trails available.

Coalisland, not too far from Dungannon houses the Cornmill Heritage Centre which hosts an international folk-music festival each summer.

North of Dungannon is the historic market town of Cookstown, founded in 1609 by planter Alan Cooke. Another excellent touring stop-off point, as only 8 miles (13km) north of Cookstown is the Beachmore Stone Circles. Even mysterious Bronze Age ceremonial stone circles and cairns. Only discovered in the 1950’s and thought to have something to do with pagan astrological practices. Two miles (3km) south-east of Cookstown is Tullaghoge Fort, the site of an 11th Century burial ground of the O’Hagans.

A fantastic rural destination with many more destinations and attractions, steeped in history, County Tyrone is the perfect place to get away from it all.