Tyrone's Top Visitor Attractions
Three of the Best Places to Visit in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland
Located in the centre of the historic province of Ulster, County Tyrone is blessed with an array of places to visit. The four main towns of Cookstown, Dungannon, the county capital of Omagh and Strabane are complemented by a idyllic rural landscape; from ancient Celtic sites to beautiful forest parks with breathtaking scenery throughout the county.
The bustling market town of Cookstown in the eastern corner of the county is immediately surrounded by a large rural area, and epitomises the demographic character of Tyrone. Literally translated to "Land of Eoghan", arguably Tyrone’s finest three visitor spots are:
Beaghmore Stone Circles
Beaghmore represents the most extensive concentration of stone circles anywhere in Ireland. Consisting of seven stone circles, this site was only discovered during peat cutting in the 1940s. Located eight miles North West of Cookstown, on the south-east perimeter of the Sperrin Mountains. Some archaeologists conclude that the circles were constructed in relation to the rising of the sun at the solstice; and was perhaps a focal point for religious and/or social gatherings during the Bronze Age in Ireland. The views from the hill summit are breathtaking on a fine day.
High Cross at Ardboe
Situated on the shores of Lough Neagh close to the village of Ardboe, this cross dates to the 9th Century and is all that remains of a monastery. The cross is exceptionally high, standing at 18 feet. It is a national monument and is believed to be the first High Cross of Ulster. Its 22 panels depict various biblical scenes. What makes the cross so unusual is that it is still the original, complete piece of stone erected at the site over 1000 years ago. According to local legend, pilgrimages were made to the cross and pilgrims moved round the cross on their knees while praying.
Gortin Glen Forest Park
Located just six miles from the county town of Omagh at the western gateway of the Sperrin Mountains, Gortin Glen has the distinction of being the first forest park to be established in a purely coniferous wood land. The forest was originally planted for the sole purpose of timber production, but it has evolved into a major recreation centre with the main feature being the five mile long drive which offers some breathtaking views. A number of vista parks have been created where the motorist can pull in and take time to enjoy the magnificent scenery. The forest is open every day of the year from 10 am until sunset.
These are just three of the finest places to visit in Ireland’s ‘O’Neill County’ where the hospitality is always warm and welcoming.
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