The best walks and hikes around Tatnagilta

Yes, there are several options perfect for a family outing. The Lough Fea loop — Sperrins is a very gentle 2.6-mile (4.1 km) path around the shores of the lough. Another great choice is the Washingbay Lough Walk, which is a local favorite for Sunday strolls and has a play park and a small café nearby.

Many of the forest parks and outdoor trails in the region are suitable for walking with dogs, but they should generally be kept on a lead, especially near farmland or in areas with wildlife. Trails through places like Drumcairne Forest and Brantry Wood are good options. Always check local signage at the trailhead for specific rules.

The area has some excellent circular trails that bring you back to your starting point. For a moderate challenge with rewarding views, the Slieve Gallion NE Top Summit loop from Moneymore is a 4.9-mile (7.9 km) route that takes you up to the summit. For an easier, flatter option, the Drum Manor House Ruins – Drum Manor House Ruins loop offers a pleasant 2.9-mile (4.6 km) walk through the forest.

While the area is best known for easy and moderate walks, you can find more demanding hikes. The Slieve Gallion NE top loop via Iniscarn Forest is a moderate 7.9-mile (12.8 km) hike that involves a steady climb of over 380 meters through the forest to the slopes of Slieve Gallion, offering a good workout.

For expansive views, the trails ascending Slieve Gallion are your best bet. From its slopes and summit, you can see across the surrounding countryside and into the Sperrin Mountains. For serene waterside scenery, the paths around Lough Fea provide beautiful, tranquil views across the water.

Yes, the region offers lovely waterside walks. The path around Lough Fea is a popular, easy trail that follows the shoreline closely. For a different experience, the Coalisland Canal Walk Trailhead provides a good starting point for a short, pleasant walk along the historic canal.

Yes, you can combine hiking with a bit of history. The trails within Drum Manor Forest Park lead you past the picturesque ruins of the old manor house, which are a central feature of the park. The Coalisland Canal also offers a glimpse into the area's industrial heritage.

The trails in this region are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained paths in the forest parks and the peaceful atmosphere of the loughside walks.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find gentle, well-surfaced paths in forest parks like Drum Manor and along the shores of Lough Fea, making them accessible for most people. Hikes into the Sperrin foothills, such as those on Slieve Gallion, involve steeper climbs on more rugged, uneven mountain paths.

There are several well-regarded spots for hiking in the area.

• Drum Manor Forest Park: A top choice, known for its accessible woodland trails and historic ruins.
• Brantry Wood: A popular local spot with multiple marked trails through the woods.
• Drumcairne Forest: Considered a hidden gem with well-maintained facilities and quiet paths.
• Coalisland Canal: Offers a pleasant, flat walk along a historic waterway.

You can find a handful of curated routes in this guide, but the wider area offers many more paths to explore. The region features a mix of easy lakeside loops, moderate forest trails, and more challenging ascents into the nearby hills.

For any hike, it's wise to wear sturdy walking shoes or boots. The weather can change quickly, so packing waterproof layers is essential, even on a clear day. Also, bring enough water and some snacks. For routes on Slieve Gallion, a map and compass or a reliable GPS device are recommended as visibility can be poor on the upper slopes.