The best walks and hikes around Beaghmore

Yes, the area offers several easy walks suitable for families. A great option is the An Creagán Biodiversity Trail, a gentle 5.7 km route with minimal elevation gain. Another excellent choice is the walk around Lough Fea, which is a flat, 4.1 km path perfect for all fitness levels.

Dogs are generally welcome on the trails, but they should be kept on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife habitats. The open landscape of the Sperrin Mountains and the forest paths provide great environments for walking with your dog.

The hikes explore the southeastern edge of the Sperrin Mountains, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You can expect a remote and tranquil landscape of boggy uplands, rolling hills covered in heather, and quiet valleys. Many trails pass through forests or alongside loughs.

Yes, there are several loop trails. The Beaghmore Stone Circles – Beaghmore Stone Circles loop from Pomeroy is a moderate 7.8 km circular route that starts and ends near the historic site, offering a comprehensive experience of the immediate area.

The Beaghmore area is best accessed by car, as public transport options are limited in this rural part of County Tyrone. There is parking available at the Beaghmore Stone Circles and at trailheads for Davagh Forest and Lough Fea, which serve as starting points for many popular hikes.

Beaghmore is famous for its complex of Early Bronze Age megalithic features. While hiking, you will encounter seven stone circles, cairns, and stone rows that were uncovered from the peat bog in the 1940s. These ancient monuments are believed to have astronomical significance, adding a layer of mystery to the landscape.

Sturdy, waterproof walking boots are essential as the terrain can be boggy and uneven. The weather in the Sperrin Mountains can change quickly, so it's wise to bring waterproof layers, even on a clear day. Also, pack water and snacks, as facilities are sparse on the trails themselves.

Yes, there is a boardwalk and trail system that directly connects the Beaghmore Stone Circles to Davagh Forest. This allows for longer hikes that combine the archaeological site with the woodland trails of the forest. One such route is the moderate 15.9 km Davagh Forest via Beaghmore Stone Circle — Sperrins.

The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the unique combination of stunning natural scenery and the area's rich archaeological heritage. The sense of tranquility and the wide-open spaces of the Sperrin Mountains are frequently mentioned as highlights.

Beyond the ancient stone circles, you can experience the Solar Walk, which connects Beaghmore to the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in Davagh Forest. This walk features an augmented reality app that guides you through a scale model of the solar system, blending ancient astronomy with modern technology.

Hiking is possible year-round, but the best conditions are typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this time, the days are longer and the weather is generally milder. The heather-cloaked hills are particularly beautiful in late summer when they are in full purple bloom.

The immediate area around the Beaghmore Stone Circles is quite remote. For refreshments, you will need to travel to nearby towns like Cookstown or Pomeroy. It's a good idea to plan ahead and visit a pub or cafe there before or after your hike.