Attractions and Places To See around Loughterush - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Loughterush are situated within County Tyrone, offering a diverse range of landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. While Loughterush itself is a small townland, it serves as a starting point for exploring the wider region's historical and natural offerings. The area provides opportunities to engage with ancient history, cultural heritage, and outdoor pursuits. Visitors can discover a variety of sites, from historical ruins to forest trails.
Best attractions and places to see around…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
Necarne Castle
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Necarne Forest
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
Bishop's Stone
Highlight • Monument
Tip by
The Penal Cross, Garden of Celtic Saints
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Loughterush
Tips from the Community
In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
1
0
In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishops stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. Another stone with a lot of history is the large slab standing west of the bishops stone, one side of the stone bears at least twelve cup-shaped hollows, see image above right, which suggest this maybe a multiple bullaun stone/cup marked stone that has been reused as an early Christian cross slab, as on the obverse face is a Greek cross in a circle with a bifurcated stem. Situated south of the bullaun stone is a holed stone, as the image shows this stone is half embedded in the ground. Immediately to the West of the holed stone is a broken 1.2 metre high stone pillar. This stone may have been damaged. http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
0
0
In the graveyard are several interesting stones, probably the most noted one is known as the Bishop's stone, this odd shaped stone has been altered and reused several times, originally thought to have been a carved figure similar to those on nearby White Island. - http://www.megalithicireland.com/Killadeas.htm
0
0
The route is only for walking, not much sightseeing, very interesting horse farm. Free parking.
1
1
The Necarne Castle equestrian park includes 200 acres of mixed use land. The walk through these woods features good gravel trails with low grades in a boggy woodland. Continuing will take you through pasture to the castle itself.
4
0
The Garden is located on the property of Sacred Heart Church. Admission is free. Access to the main area is restricted to specific hours but the Famine Memorial portion is unrestricted. It features wooden sculptures by Jonas Raiskas.
1
0
Once called Irvine Castle, hence the town of Irvinestown, it is now a ruin closed to urban explorers, including cctv. It was in use as late as WWII, when it was a military hospital, but it has since lost its roof and been overtaken by plant life.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Loughterush?
The area around Loughterush is rich in history. You can explore the ruins of Necarne Castle, which served as a military hospital during WWII. Further afield in County Tyrone, consider visiting the significant Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, featuring ancient religious artifacts like the Bishop's stone and a cross slab. Other notable historical sites include the Hill of The O'Neill & Ranfurly House in Dungannon, Harry Avery's Castle, and the Bronze Age Beaghmore Stone Circles.
Are there any natural attractions or outdoor spaces to explore?
Yes, you can enjoy the natural beauty of Necarne Forest, which offers good gravel trails through a boggy woodland. County Tyrone is also home to the magnificent Sperrins Mountain Range, an official Dark Skies location perfect for stargazing. Davagh Forest and Gortin Glen Forest Park provide further opportunities for walks and enjoying nature.
What kind of outdoor activities are available near Loughterush?
Beyond walking in Necarne Forest, the wider region offers various activities. Mountain biking is popular in Davagh Forest and at Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes, including easy to moderate options like the 'Bishop's Stone loop from Ballinamallard'. You can find more details on cycling routes in the area on the Cycling around Loughterush guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Loughterush?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Necarne Forest is considered family-friendly for walks. The Penal Cross, Garden of Celtic Saints, located on the property of Sacred Heart Church, is also family-friendly and features wooden sculptures. The Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh is an excellent outdoor museum that engages visitors of all ages with its historical re-enactments and traditional crafts.
Where can I find ancient monuments or archaeological sites?
You can visit Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones, which features several historical stones, including a notable Bishop's stone and a slab with cup-shaped hollows. In County Tyrone, the Beaghmore Stone Circles near Cookstown are a significant Bronze Age archaeological complex, and Knockmany Passage Grave is another prehistoric monument worth exploring.
What cultural experiences can I have in the region?
County Tyrone offers rich cultural experiences. The Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh provides a deep dive into Irish emigration history. The Hill of The O'Neill & Ranfurly House in Dungannon explores the history of the O'Neill dynasty. For arts, the Strule Arts Centre in Omagh showcases local and international talent. You can also visit The Argory, an atmospheric 1820s Irish gentry house.
Are there any specific places for stargazing or astronomy?
Yes, the Sperrins Mountain Range in County Tyrone is an official Dark Skies location, making it ideal for stargazing. Within the Sperrins, the OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in Davagh Forest offers advanced technology, including holographic installations and a large telescope, for an enhanced astronomical experience.
What are some popular cycling routes near Loughterush?
There are several popular cycling routes in the vicinity. For road cycling, options range from moderate loops like 'Dromare and Omagh loop from Irvinestown' to easier ones such as the 'Bishop's Stone loop from Ballinamallard'. For general cycling, the 'Kingfisher Cycle Trail - Northern Loop' is an easy option. More details on these and other routes can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around Loughterush and Cycling around Loughterush guides.
Can I find any sites related to Irish ancestry or emigration?
Absolutely. The Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh is dedicated to telling the story of Irish emigration to America. Additionally, for those interested in specific ancestral links, the Grant Ancestral Homestead and Wilson Ancestral Home, located near Ballygawley and Strabane respectively, have connections to former U.S. Presidents.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Loughterush?
Visitors appreciate the diverse range of experiences, from exploring historical ruins and ancient religious sites like Killadeas Priory Church and Early Christian Stones to enjoying the peaceful forest trails of Necarne Forest. The historical significance of sites like Necarne Castle and the opportunity for outdoor activities are also highly valued by the komoot community.
Are there any forest parks for walks and recreation?
Yes, in addition to Necarne Forest, County Tyrone offers several other forest parks. Gortin Glen Forest Park, near Omagh, is a gateway to the Sperrin Mountains and provides opportunities for walks. Drum Manor Forest Park and Dungannon Park, with its stream-fed lake, are also attractive options for recreation and enjoying nature.
Most popular routes around Loughterush
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
