County Tyrone
Giant welcomes wait for you in Northern Ireland’s largest county.
Tyrone is packed with loads to do for families, groups of friends and couples alike. So, if your short break wishlist includes spectacular landscapes, cycling, trekking, observing the stars, a bit of history and possibly a trip to a fabulous spa, you’ll find it all here. Where to start? Let's try a bit of history - and there's plenty of that here! Explore the ancient Hill of The O’Neill at The Ranfurly House Arts and Visitor Centre or the spectacular Harry Avery’s Castle. It’s here that you’ll discover why County Tyrone’s nickname of ‘O’Neill Country’ has stuck.
In fact, you’d be amazed to discover who else’s family trees have branches in Tyrone. Two US Presidents, no less - Ulysses S. Grant and Woodrow Wilson. You’ll find The Grant Ancestral Homestead in Ballygawley and the Wilson Ancestral Home near Strabane. Both are real treats for those with an interest in Irish Ancestry, as is the Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh. Here, you’ll step back in time to experience life as it was in the 18th century and the story of Irish emigration. Maybe your family roots are here too?
Things to do in County Tyrone
You’ll love creating your own family memories at An Creagán, nestled in the ancient landscape of the Sperrin foothills. Maybe you’d prefer to saddle up and ride the lush Tyrone countryside on horseback at The Forest Stables. Your dog can enjoy outdoor fun at Blessingbourne Country Estate in Fivemiletown which hosts mountain bike trails, a working farm and a museum. Wherever you go, you’ll discover hidden gems everywhere.
Maybe go off the beaten track on a Far and Wild Sperrins cycle tour. The unspoilt Davagh Forest is a must if you’re a mountain biker. Or if the water is your thing, paddle your own canoe on Gortin Glen lakes. Why not try your hand at landing a beauty on the fishing runs of the River Mourne or the grand setting of the seventeenth-century Baronscourt Estate in Newtownstewart. You’ll be hooked for life. And you’ll definitely need a bit of grub after all that activity.
From the Bronze Age to the Space Age
A whole new star-gazing experience is coming to County Tyrone, when the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory opens at Davagh Forest, near Cookstown. Davagh boasts one of the ‘darkest skies’ in Ireland, and with little light pollution the area offers crystal clear views of star constellations. This new centre will provide visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the night sky to the fullest.
Another plus is that the new observatory will be sited close to the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles, a complex of early Bronze Age megalithic features, stone circles and cairns. It is also at the foot of the Sperrin mountains and in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Attractions old and new, this area will be well worth your visit.
Chow time
If the weather’s fine, a family picnic in Gortin Glen is all you need. But if you prefer someone else to do the cooking, you’re spoiled for choice. County Tyrone is full of great family restaurants and gastropubs. Try The Loco Bar & Grill at the Valley Hotel in Fivemiletown, or check out the family favourite Yankee Star Grillhouse in Coalisland with their awesome desserts. You will love the Brewer's House gastropub – a real gem tucked away in the picturesque village of Donaghmore. You’ll never go hungry in County Tyrone, that’s for sure.
A piece of shopping heaven
Once you’re fed and watered, you’ll find the bustling towns of Omagh and Dungannon ideal for a high-street shopping trip. Or if you fancy something different and unique, The Linen Green designer village just off the M1 motorway has to be on your list. Shop ‘til you drop in unique boutiques you won’t find anywhere else!
A place to lay your head
After a busy day of fun and adventure, music festivals, shopping or stargazing - you’ll need a place to rest your weary head. Make County Tyrone’s hotels, B&Bs, spa retreats or self-catering family accommodation your perfect home away from home.
