Best attractions and places to see around Knockanroe are found in County Tipperary, Ireland, an area known for its natural beauty and historical significance. The region features the Knockanroe Wood Loop, offering walks through forest and open mountain with expansive views. It is also connected to the Silvermines Mountains and hosts the ancient Knockroe Passage Tomb. Visitors can explore both natural landscapes and significant archaeological sites.
Last updated: July 7, 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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The region around Knockanroe offers several natural highlights. You can explore the Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail, which features beautiful mature deciduous woodland, winding forest tracks, ponds, and gardens. Additionally, the Knockanroe Wood Loop itself provides a rewarding walk through forest and open mountain with expansive views of the River Shannon and Lough Derg.
Yes, Knockanroe is rich in history. You can visit the Drum Manor House Ruins, the remains of a 19th-century manor now part of a public park. Another significant historical site is Mountjoy Castle, a 17th-century castle ruin overlooking Lough Neagh. Don't miss Tullyhogue Fort, an important historic site where the O'Neills were crowned. The ancient Knockroe Passage Tomb, a Neolithic site with extensive megalithic art, is also a notable heritage site in County Tipperary. You can find more information about the Knockroe Passage Tomb on the Heritage Ireland website.
Knockanroe is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the Knockanroe Wood Loop or sections of the Slieve Felim Way. For more structured activities, explore the various hiking routes around Knockanroe, including easy loops in Drum Manor Forest Park. There are also running trails and road cycling routes available in the wider area.
Yes, there are family-friendly options. Drum Manor House Ruins is located within a public park that features a campsite, hiking trails, gardens, and a play park, making it ideal for families. Tullyhogue Fort also offers open spaces and views that families can enjoy.
From the high point of Knockanroe itself, which reaches 479 meters, you can enjoy expansive views of the River Shannon, Lough Derg, the low plains of the Midlands, and the peak of Keeper Hill. Tullyhogue Fort also offers scenic views across the countryside of County Tyrone.
Yes, the Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail is noted as dog-friendly, offering a lovely route through mature deciduous woodland for you and your canine companion.
The Knockanroe Wood Loop is generally considered a strenuous walk, typically taking 1.5 to 2 hours to complete its 4.3 to 4.5 km. It involves both forest and open mountain terrain. However, you can also find easier hiking options, such as the 'easy' rated loops within Drum Manor Forest Park, as detailed in the hiking guide for Knockanroe.
While specific parking details for Knockanroe Woods are not provided, the public park associated with Drum Manor House Ruins, which includes hiking trails, offers a large parking lot with restrooms, making it a convenient starting point for exploring that area.
The Silvermines Mountains, where Knockanroe Forest is situated, are historically significant for their mining heritage. The nearby Silvermines Village is named after a former silver mining site, where lead, zinc, copper, sulphide, and barites were extracted from Roman times until 1993.
The Knockroe Passage Tomb, also known as The Caiseal, is a Neolithic passage tomb dating back to approximately 3,000 BC. It is distinctive for its extensive megalithic art, featuring over thirty decorated stones. A unique aspect is its midwinter alignment with the rising and setting sun on December 21st. Archaeological excavations have revealed evidence of multiple burials and grave goods. More details can be found on the Heritage Ireland website.
Yes, you can visit the Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery. The church ruins date from the early 16th century, incorporating stones from an even older pre-11th-century church. Although the church itself is in disrepair, the graveyard remains in use.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The serene walks through mature woodlands, the expansive views from elevated points, and the opportunity to explore ancient ruins and historical sites are frequently highlighted. The family-friendly amenities at places like Drum Manor Park also receive positive feedback.


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