Best trails in Tyrone, Northern Ireland

Beautiful old demesne now run by the National Trust. Great views across the North Coast and Benone beach. Mainly a grassy path through fields passing the temple and Old demesne building. Show more

This route begins from Sperrin Road. Ample parking is available next to two cattle grids. A fence-line goes up west and provides a sure guide to the summit area. The route is wide open from the start providing great views immediately. Samhail (Sawel) is the highest summit in the Sperrin Mountain Range and also boasts the County-tops of both Derry and Tyrone. The summit has incredible 360 views across the surrounding mountains and far beyond. The full name of the mountain is Samhail Phite Méabha [sau-il fitcha meyva] ‘likeness to Maeve’s vulva’ and is said to have been used metaphorically to refer to a hollow on the south face of the mountain. Follow the fence line westwards into the saddle before climbing the eastern side of An Dairt (Dart - 'the lump'). The summit is the second highest in the Sperrins and has the honour of being one of the only mountains in the range to be marked by a cairn. The most common route is to return via the same way but this route cuts south after descending back into the saddle between Samhail and An Dairt. This leg cuts through heavier terrain eventually following the Oughtmame Burn as it flows throw the valley. There is a picturesque waterfall at approximately 300m. From this point head back eastward towards the Sperrin Road. Show more

This route begins in Goles Forest in the public carpark which is free. The forest path can be followed until coming to a left turn at which point you take a right and head for the open mountain. Next is the climb up Keadycam and the face of Carnán Aichle (Carnanelly). This is a steady, steep climb in heavy ground including heather. If you're lucky and get a clear day the view from the summit are excellent with Lough Fea near Cookstown, clearly visible (we didn't have such luck on the day of recording). The cairn can be found close to the summit and is marked by a large mound of rocks. In fact, the mountain's Irish name, Carnán Aichle, translates to 'little carn of the look-out point'. Continuing across the mountain, follow the fence as a guide until you come to the summit of Sliabh an mhadaidh (Slieveavaddy - mountain of the dog). From here, the descent to Lough Ouske will become visible. A small hill about 300m from the Lough makes a great location to stop for lunch before making the short walk down to the water. This is one of the few bodies of water in the Sperrin Mountains. Head towards the road for the last leg, crossing Leigh's Bridge and the beautiful Gole's Cottage before returning to the carpark. Show more

Beautiful grassy dunes and views of the River Bann. See Mussenden Temple at a distance.Show more