Best attractions and places to see around Gortagammon include a variety of historical sites, forest parks, and trails. This region offers 5 distinct places to explore, ranging from ancient ruins to woodland paths. Visitors can discover significant historical landmarks and enjoy natural landscapes. The area provides opportunities for exploring cultural heritage and engaging with the outdoors.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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On the banks of Lough Neagh, near the village of Brockagh, you will find the impressive ruin of Mountjoy Castle. This castle was built between 1602 and 1605 by Lord Mountjoy and served at the time as a crucial military stronghold during the turbulent years of the Nine Years' War. Unique is the special combination of building materials: the lower floor is constructed from rough natural stone, while the upper floor consists of locally fired red brick. Although the castle has been a ruin since 1648, the central block and the characteristic arrow-shaped corner towers are still clearly recognizable in the landscape.
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In the shadow of Northern Ireland's vast skies, the mysterious Mountjoy Castle rises on a hill above Lough Neagh. This ruined castle, whose Irish name "Caisleán Mhuinseo" whispers into the wind, stands like a proud sentinel in the village of Mountjoy, County Tyrone. The castle was built in 1602 by order of Charles Blount, 1st Earl of Devonshire and 8th Baron Mountjoy. But times have not always been kind to this building: as early as 1643, a devastating fire left scars on the walls of the castle. What remained is a two-story brick building with the ground floor clad in stone. The architecture speaks of a time of defense and vigilance - a central rectangular block protected by four spear-shaped towers, crisscrossed by embrasures. The north-western tower testifies to the fragility of time - partially collapsed, while the western curtain wall has lost its presence. The entrance, once on the south side of the eastern curtain wall, seems to whisper stories of days gone by, while wide windows on the upper floor capture the eyes of visitors. Unfortunately, an extension at the back keeps some of the castle's secrets hidden, and the interior area is closed to visitors' eyes. But even in its ruined state, Mountjoy Castle embodies the soul and history of Northern Ireland. Not only is it a State Care Historic Monument in the townland of Magheralamfield in the Mid Ulster District, but it is also a silent testament to time, inviting every walker to pause for a moment and listen to the whispers of history.
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The church ruins date from the early 16th century but include stones from a much earlier pre 11th century church. After a new church was built, this one fell into disrepair, but the graveyard remains in use.
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An important historic site, Tullyhogue Fort is where the O'Neills were crowned the Chiefs of Ulster. It is now planted with trees and you can enjoy views across the countryside of County Tyrone.
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Here stands the remains of the once magnificent Drum Manor house. The house was built in the 1800s and was bought from the Forest Service in 1964 when it was turned into a park for the public. The park now features a campsite, hiking trails, gardens and a play park.
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Drum Manor Forest Park is made up of beautiful mature deciduous woodland feauturing beech and oak. Winding forest tracks will take you on a lovely route through the area passing ponds, gardens, and a derelict manor house.
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Outdoor activities include a campsite, hiking trails, gardens and a play park. There is also a large parking lot with restrooms.
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Small castle ruins. Unfortunately not accessible inside and "reared" from behind.
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Around Gortagammon, you can explore a mix of historical sites, forest parks, and woodland trails. Notable attractions include the ancient Drum Manor House Ruins, the historic Mountjoy Castle, and the scenic Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail.
Yes, Drum Manor House Ruins is a great family-friendly option. It features the remains of an 1800s manor house within a public park that includes hiking trails, gardens, and a play park. Tullyhogue Fort is also considered family-friendly, offering historical significance and views across the countryside.
The area is rich in history. You can visit the Drum Manor House Ruins, which was transformed into a public park. Another significant site is Mountjoy Castle, a ruined 17th-century castle overlooking Lough Neagh. Don't miss Tullyhogue Fort, an important historic site where the O'Neills were crowned Chiefs of Ulster, and the Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery, with parts dating back to before the 11th century.
Absolutely. The area offers several hiking opportunities, particularly within Drum Manor Forest Park. You can find easy loops like the 'Drum Manor Forest Park loop' or routes around the 'Drum Manor House Ruins'. For more hiking options, explore the hiking guide for Gortagammon.
Yes, there are various cycling routes available. You can find easy cycling tours like the 'Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort', or more challenging options like 'The Sperrins loop from Cookstown'. For a comprehensive list of routes, check out the cycling guide for Gortagammon.
The Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail is noted as dog-friendly, offering winding forest tracks through beautiful mature deciduous woodland, passing ponds, gardens, and the derelict manor house. It's a great place to enjoy the outdoors with your dog.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical exploration and natural beauty. For instance, the Drum Manor House Ruins are loved for their transformation into a public park with hiking trails and a play area. Mountjoy Castle is valued for its historical significance and its commanding position above Lough Neagh, despite parts of the interior being inaccessible. The tranquil woodland trails of Drum Manor Forest Park are also highly regarded.
Within Drum Manor Forest Park, you can find easy walking trails. The 'Drum Manor Forest Park loop' is an easy hike, as are some of the shorter loops around the 'Drum Manor House Ruins'. These trails offer a gentle way to experience the park's natural beauty.
For road cycling enthusiasts, there are several routes around Gortagammon, ranging from moderate to difficult. Examples include the 'Armagh, Emyvale and Aughnaloy loop from Coalisland' and the 'Kingstown and Pomeroy loop from Coalisland'. You can find more details and routes in the road cycling guide for Gortagammon.
Tullyhogue Fort is a site of immense historical importance. It served as the ancient inauguration site where the O'Neills were crowned the Chiefs of Ulster. Today, it's planted with trees and offers panoramic views across the County Tyrone countryside, allowing visitors to connect with a significant piece of Irish heritage.
Yes, the area features several ancient ruins. Besides the Drum Manor House Ruins and Mountjoy Castle, you can also visit the Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery. This site contains church ruins from the early 16th century, incorporating stones from an even older pre-11th-century church, offering a glimpse into centuries of history.


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