Whether you’re into adventure and exercise, history and heritage, a quiet day’s fishing or adrenaline pumping pursuits, County Tyrone has everything you want. Take a look at the top things to get up to in the O’Neill County.
The stars shine down on County Tyrone
The magnificent Sperrins mountain range in the heart of County Tyrone is home to an official Dark Skies location - one of the world’s best places for gazing at the constellations of stars spread across the skies above.
Now there’s an even better way to enjoy those dark skies and stars, at the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in Davagh forest. This centre has the latest technology, from holographic installations to virtual reality headsets with colourful, accessible interpretation panels and hands-on activities, as well as an enormous telescope for observing the skies above.
Walk among the nearby Beaghmore Stone Circles and you will easily conjure up the voices and echoes of the past. You will feel an energy here – perhaps a connection to the land of your ancestors. Whatever it is, you will be mesmerised by these seven ancient circles, considered among the finest Neolithic cairns in Ireland.
Make history a walk in the Park
The links between Tyrone and the New World are very strong. Here’s your chance to immerse yourself in the story of thousands of brave emigrants who journeyed across the Atlantic hundreds of years ago, at the Ulster American Folk Park.
Step back in time and wander through thatched cottages and log cabins. Meet characters in authentic costume who will show you traditional crafts, share their stories and even share some of their food.
Board a full-scale emigrant ship and experience for yourself the conditions faced by those setting sail for a new life in America. With 30 buildings and exhibits for you to explore - and loads for the kids to do - the Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh is a unique experience.
Meet not one – but two - US Presidents
While we’re on the subject of Tyrone-US relations, come and discover the ancestral homes of two former US Presidents, Ulysses S. Grant and Woodrow Wilson. Well, Tyrone people don’t do things by halves!
You’ll find the preserved Grant Ancestral Homestead in Ballygawley where Ulysses’ great-grandfather, John Simpson, was born. On your visit, you’ll find out some interesting historical nuggets about the 18th American President. Do you know what his middle initial stands for? You will.
The Wilson Ancestral Home is another historical gem that you’ll be glad you visited. Stroll around the small thatched, whitewashed cottage on the slopes of the Sperrin Mountains, the home of Judge James Wilson, grandfather of Woodrow Wilson.
In this original ‘white house’ near Strabane, you’ll discover some of the family's original furniture, including a tiny sleeping nook in the kitchen by the fire - and a portrait of the 28th President's grandfather over the fireplace. You may even bump into Wilson family members who still occupy the farmhouse next door!
The hills are alive
Stand on the ancient Hill of The O’Neill and you are standing on one of the most important sites in the history of Northern Ireland. Discover how this location in Dungannon was at the centre of a nine year war that changed the landscape forever.
The nearby Ranfurly House Arts and Visitor Centre will bring the 400-year history of the stronghold to life for you. As it did for the dynastic O’Neill chieftains, the stunning elevated site offers you panoramic views from the height of a new glass-viewing tower.
Explore Harry’s place
If you’re a history buff or just love the wild outdoors, a trip to the enigmatic Harry Avery’s Castle site is a treat. It’s said to have been built in 1320 and named after Henry Aimhbreidh (Avery) a Gaelic chieftain of – you’ve guessed it – the famous O’Neill dynastic clan who died exactly one-hundred years before Columbus even set foot in America.
You’ll discover Irish chieftains of the time rarely built stone castles. Yes, the O’Neills always did things differently!
Crank up your adrenaline levels to ‘11’
If you’re into adventure sports, horse riding, biking or water sports, you’ll find something for all levels and ages on your doorstep. Check out the untouched beauty of Davagh Forest near Cookstown, a big favourite for mountain bikers. Its fast 16km red trail will keep you on your toes, but you can ride family-friendly and easy-going trails too. Or give the pump track and short skills course a go.
You’ll also love Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails near Fivemiletown in the heart of the Clogher Valley. Choose its technical trail or take the kids on the fun trails – it’s up to you but it’s always a great day out.
For more thrill-seeking adventures, head to Todds Leap. If Blindfold Land Rover Driving, three-storey drops or body zorbing are your thing, get here now! Take a few hours and get away from it all on Gortin Glen Lakes where the wilderness and sheltered location make canoeing a total pleasure for you and the family. Saddle up at the Forest Stables in Fivemiletown and enjoy their new river trail.
Land yourself a beauty
Coarse fishing is available year round in the Sperrin waters, offering the angler a great choice including bream, roach, perch, eels and pike while the River Mourne is believed to be one of the best salmon rivers in Northern Europe.
Shop ‘til you drop
The bustling towns of Omagh and Dungannon are your ideal stop-off for a spot of high-street shopping, souvenir hunting or lazy-day browsing. If you fancy something one-off or unique, The Linen Green designer village just off the M1 motorway and 45 minutes from Belfast might just be the place for you.
Whilst every effort has been made to ensure information is correct, we strongly advise checking in advance before you travel to your intended destination to ensure its open and book tickets if applicable.
